As a long-time 12×12 member, I was so excited for the opportunity to be a featured author! Having read posts from fellow literary souls who were also familiar friends, I realized we are tethered by a sometimes painful, yet ultimately beautiful, common thread. One braided from the strands of skinned knees, scratched elbows, and bruised egos doled out as we navigate kidlit’s bumpy, uphill climb.
But the final strand of that thread is perhaps the most important—the fact that, despite it all, we’d managed to continue writing. Then came the next challenge—all those creative brethren, having navigated a forest gauntlet and emerged onto the blue-skied path to publication, had seemingly covered all the topics I’d considered.
That was initially daunting, but also a little liberating, as it left me with no option but to share the only unique thing I could—some perspective from my own journey. Then, a clever CP suggested that, given my debut is told from a dog’s perspective, my dog should interview me (aside: supportive CPs are vital, as they apply salve to those skinned knees). So I spoke with Koda and, after negotiating for extra kibble and longer walks, he generously agreed.
Koda: First, I’m so happy you wrote about a bestpet—I wigglewag each time I read it! And I understand The Longest Letsgoboy is based on personal events. So how did you get the aha for it?
Me: Well, Lakota (on the left) and Kaya, our huskies at that time, would sit with me out back while I wrote. One morning, Lakota, an elderly boy, got up and slowly strolled around our yard. I followed him, and it felt like he was saying farewell to the surrounding flora and fauna. So I envisioned him taking a walk through the woods with my little girl and immediately began writing the story.
I was following my “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. That is, I try to always, always be on the lookout for an idea, and then write it down immediately, before the little sprite flits away. And the second half is to never, ever think any idea is too dumb or farfetched, because you just never know…
Koda: How sweet—and how I love a long letsgoboy! How many lightdarks did you take to write the final version?
Me: I wrote the initial crappy drafty that day. But it took some 50 revisions to polish it up, and that version then endured multiple rejections before landing with the perfect editor in Taylor Norman at Chronicle. After that, we were fortunate that Cátia Chien agreed to illustrate it, as she did such an amazing job! So, in only six “short” years from that initial draft, our book was released.
Koda: Why did you decide to write a wordsonpage from the point of view of a bestpet?
Me: That was how it came to me, so I never considered another option. And in conjunction with that, I wanted the dog to use his own language. I just didn’t think relaying it from a human’s point of view would do justice to this tale.
Koda: Ha—I see what you did there—tale…tail. Very clever. Go on…
Me: I wrote the initial draft using only English, but highlighted all the words I thought would translate into dog-speak. Then I spent some time in the forests of our local Greenway, trying to figure out how a dog might refer to the natural elements. I’d watch squirrels, lie under trees and stare at their canopies, speak to flowers, and listen to streams. Then I started trying combinations of small words to create dog-speak that made sense and, just as importantly, could be pronounced in read-alouds.
Koda: Do you have any other wordsonpages coming out?
Me: My next book, also from Chronicle, is slated for May of next year. It’s quite different from this one, to say the least, as it’s in rhyme and is titled Does a Bulldozer Have a Butt?
Coincidentally, it was also a result of following the “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. We stopped behind a bus at a traffic light and my now-teen daughter, who was a 4-year-old, blurted out, “Look, Daddy, the school bus has a butt!” That was the beginning—now she wants royalties.
Koda: That sounds hilarious! And what a perfect setup to feature a bestpet, as we love it when you scratch our, well, you know…
Me: Sorry, buddy, but the MCs are a father and little girl who are walking to school when she begins asking him if all sorts of things, from dinosaurs to aliens to robots, have butts.
Koda: It doesn’t have a bestpet!?! Well, maybe ask me for some advice next time.
Me: Ummm…do you really think you can give advice on writing picture books?
Koda: Of course!
Me: Okay, let’s see what you got…
Koda: First, find your very own happyplace where creativity can flow! For me, that’s bigwild.
Koda: Also, you twolegs seem to be awfully busy, always runjumping here and there. You should take some time to sit. To stay. To just be.
Koda: Finally, wrap each wordsonpage with love and fill it with emotion. For example, Letsgoboy made me cry, and Butt will hopefully make me laugh.
Me: Actually, that’s not bad—thanks!
Koda: Oh, and one more thing…don’t forget to do a little leglifting whenever you’re in bigwild—so fun!
Me: Okay, I think we’ll end on that note.
Koda: Wuffwuff!
Derick Wilder is the author of three picture books: the just-released The Longest Letsgoboy, Does a Bulldozer Have a Butt? (Chronicle, May of 2022), and I Made Those Ants Some Underpants (Chronicle, 2023). He is the founder of Reading Giraffe, a literacy initiative that uses the wonder of books to help create lifelong readers. Derick lives with his daughter in Fort Mill, SC, where they share their home with Koda, a Siberian husky, Sammy, a ball python, and stacks of books. You can find him online at www.derickwilder.com.
Derick is offering a PB critique as a prize to our December check-in winner! Finish strong!
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341 Responses
THE LONGEST LETSGOBOY is a beautiful story! Thank you so much, Derick, for sharing your journey! And a big goodjobboy to Koda! The key certainly is perseverance and the kitlit community is truly wonderful at healing skinned knees. Congratulation on your new pictures books coming out in 2022 & 2023! I will have to bring a notebook with me and following your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. – Many Thanks!
Wow, Derrick, how exciting to have so many wonderful-sounding books coming out with such a great publisher. 🙂 And how generous to do a critique giveaway! Thank you for letting us get to know you and your work (and of course Koda) better. 🙂
Thanks so much, Elayne! I’ve been very fortunate to work with Chronicle! And Koda also passes along a wuffwuff.
Thanks so much, Donna! Yes, Koda did a fine job for his first interview! 🙂 And yes, perseverance has certainly been, and continues to be, a key! Just keep swimming, just keep swimming…
This interview made me smile! I can’t wait to read ALL your books! Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Melissa!
Based on the title of your books, I adore you! Break a leg!
Thanks so much, Lizzie! And I don’t think I mentioned that the follow-up to the butt book is titled I Made Those Ants Some Underpants. 🙂
You are an adorable crack-up!
this interview was clever, funny, and creative. I can’t wait to read these coming stories!
Thanks so much, Karen!
Congratulations on your just and soon to be released books, Derrick. So filled with heart and humor! And thanks, Koda, for some doggone good writing advice!
Thanks so much, Jill! And Koda sends along a wuffwuff! 🙂
Derick, I loved this. It made me laugh and cringe and gave me good advice! Always, always, never, ever! Thank you.
Thanks so much, Nancy! And I really need that rule, because otherwise I’d never, ever remember any of my ideas! 🙂
Welcome, Derick! Thanks for sharing your insights.
Thanks so much, Susan!
I’ve heard such great reviews already. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Joyce! We’ve been fortunate to get some starred reviews!
This was a really fun read. Great interview and advice. And congratulations on your new book and the two upcoming releases.
Thanks so much, Dan! It’s been fun, and certainly a learning experience!
I appreciate the advice and learning the backstory to The Longest Letsgoboy, Derick. Your book is powerful and gave me all the feels. Congratulations on your success!
Thanks so much, Robin! It always gives me a happyface to hear that a reader enjoyed Letsgoboy!
Haha, love it! Koda has some excellent advice!
Thanks, Kirsten! And your insights on my stories have been invaluable! 🙂
Loved interview-by-dog (or should I say best pet?) and actually got some ideas. Thank you, Koda–and Derick! I particularly liked the strategy of highlighting words that might become dogspeak. Could come in handy for something I’m thinking about…
Thanks so much, Marcia! Best of luck on your project. I found that, for me, writing the storyline, which I think should always come first, was a more important first step than getting bogged down in figuring out each dog-speak word…some came easily, but some…not so much. 🙂
Loved your post! And love the Always, Always, Never, Ever rule! Thanks
Thanks so much, Cinzia! Yes, it has served me pretty well, as I am always, always forgetting things! 🙂
“First, find your very own happyplace where creativity can flow! For me, that’s bigwild….You should take some time to sit. To stay. To just be….Finally, wrap each wordsonpage with love and fill it with emotion.” Love that! Go, Koda! And wonderful post from the TwoLegs, thank you!
Thanks so much, Caroline! And Koda is wigglewagging at the kind words directed his way! 🙂
Fabulous post filled with empathy and encouragement for your fellow writers and sage advice. I’m looking forward to reading The Longest Letsgoboy. Warmest congratulations!
Thanks so much, Claire! Hope you enjoy Letsgoboy–let me know what you think…
Congratulations on your books, and thanks for the very clever post. Love the perspective!
Thanks so much, Rose!
The interview was such a fun & clever approach. Loved the photos and illustrations too. Congrats on all your books, Derrick.
Pat
Koda definitely earned some extra kibble with this excellent talkbark. Congratulations on all your books. They sound fabulous!
Thanks so much, Mary! And Koda is wigglewagging from the kind feedback!
Thanks so much, Pat! Glad you enjoyed it, and Koda sends a wigglewag!
I appreciated your comment about never letting an idea flit away, even though you may think it is too dumb or farfetched. Many times we fall to that kind of thinking. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and beautiful dogs.
Thanks so much, Diane! Yes, I am sure I’ve lost a few during this journey, but try not to let them get away!
WOW, what a great approach to catching the reader’s imagination. I am impressed by your ability to be so in tuned with the dog language. Your way of making pets have a say in the family is to be commended.
Thanks so much, Marjie! I sometimes find it easier to understand dogs than people. 🙂
Great stuff, Derick—will you or Koda come talk to my dog for me? Also, I spoke to Melissa Manlove last summer and she mentioned working on a project that I now realize must be “Does a Bulldozer Have a Butt? ” Can’t wait to read it in May.
Thanks so much, Bennett! Just because I speak to Koda doesn’t mean he listens. LOL That’s interesting…Taylor Norman is the editor for the butt book, but I do know Melissa.
I adored this post, as I adore the book. Love seeing how it came to be, hearing from your very wise dog, and putting your ‘Always, Always, Never, Ever’ rule in my pocket. Congratulations on all of your wonderful book news and on this beautiful book.
Thanks so much, Tina! Glad the advice helps a bit–I’m sure I’ve let a few ideas flit away over the years, but I try my best to keep them close by.
Derrick,
Love the interview and can’t wait to read your new book in dogspeak.
sue
Thanks so much, Sue! Hope it gives you a happyface! 🙂
Great post, thank you. I love your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule! Terrific advice. Your book looks beautiful. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Karin!
I have heard tons of positive feedback about your first book. I can’t wait to read it and your others.
Thanks so much, Jennifer! We’ve been fortunate to get some good comments on Letsgoboy. It will be interesting to see the feedback on the second book. 🙂
Derrick,
What a fun and upleglifting tale/tail! I can’t wait to buyread this to my own foreverfriends who happen to be craycraycats! Congratulations on three books under your belt!
Thanks so much, Margaret! Including a mewmew in Letsgoboy was also based on real-life events, as Lakota and Nikki, our cat at the time, did get along well and would cuddle sometimes.
Derrick, Stories about beloved pets – especially old ones whose sunrises are limited, always pull at my heartstrings. I will have the Kleenex ready when I read The Longest Letsgoboy. My two Great Danes passed last year this time and your book had me thinking of them as they said goodbye.
Thanks so much, Jane! And sorry to hear about Great Danes. It’s always tough to lose our furry, four-legged family members. Lakota did pass a couple of months after taking me on the walk. Kaya then passed a couple of years later (both were about 15). The ending of Letsgoboy, which I guess I won’t give away here, also follows our real-life events.
Kudos to Koda on the great interview! Your story sounds just lovely. And I love your “Always, always never, ever” rule.
Thanks so much, Pat! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks so much (from me and Koda), Pat!
Derick, My dog would’ve loved to talk with Koda about the writing business. I lost him at age 18+ in 2020. He and his “sister” who I lost in 2016 at almost 16 were my inspiration for a mystery series.
So sorry for your loss, Chelle! And how touching that your writing was also inspired by four-legged, furry family members. Lakota passed a couple of months later, and Kaya two years after that. We’ve now had Koda (who was already named that when we rehomed him, so we felt he was Lakota reincarnate :)) for three years. Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Sorry for your loss as well.
Delightful and insightful post, Derick! I’ve seen The Longest Letsgoboy read on Youtube, and for me, it’s the perfect book. Loved it sooooo much. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Mary Helen! So glad you enjoyed the book! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
This is a super clever interview and your book looks amazing, Derick! I can’t wait to read it.
Thanks so much, Teresa! Becky Shillington is the clever CP who suggested the Koda interview, and it was fun to write. Hope you enjoy the book–let me know. 🐕
This is incredibly inspiring! Congratulations! (I have a book coming out with Chronicle 2024. Very exciting.) Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks so much, Christina! Congratulations! Chronicle has been such a terrific partner! I’ve worked with Taylor Norman on all three books. Who is your editor there?
Thank you, Derick! I love the feeling of the word-combos you created!
Thanks so much, Amy! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
This was a great read. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and your inspiration.
Thanks so much, Natalie! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you Derick,
Loved the dogspeak and Koda’s advice. Especially the last bit. Looking forward to checking your book out. Good luck 🙂
Thanks so much, Aly! Hope you enjoy the book…please let me know! It turns out Koda can give some decent advice after all–who knew!?! 😀 🐕
This interview is absolutely delightful. I love that you spend time outside imagining to come up with the dogspeak for the book. I’m looking forward to reading THE LONGEST LETSGOBOY soon. Congratulations, Derick!
Thanks so much, Sarah! The running trails on our Greenway (where the nature shots were taken) are my sanctuary. And I am fortunate to have a wooded back yard, so still write on the patio, preferably with a fire on chilly mornings. So nature probably works its way into all my stories. Koda sends a wigglewag. 🐕
Derick, love your humor and your “always, always, never, ever” mantra. Can’t wait to read The Longest Letsgoboy and discover all the dog-speak you came up with for the story. Looking forward to your other titles as well. Congrats and best wishes!
Thanks so much, Marty! Hope you enjoy the book–please let me know! The dog-speak was certainly a fun, if sometimes challenging, element of the story! Koda sends a wigglewag. 🐕
Aw! Lovely article. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Heather! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you for the charming post. And the lovely word play.
Thanks so much, Marcia! And sending a wigglewag from Koda! 🐕
Congratulations Derrick. Our goldens also provide much inspiration for story ideas. My older golden also did a perimeter walk of our property and tried hard to leave for the woods just before passing on. It’s sad but they offer us so much love and joy during their too short lives. Grandkids too pass along great ideas. It was my grandson who said “Grandma, I know it was the sky monkeys up in the cloud jungle playing soccer, that made that grape seed land down by your garden fence.” That became Purple Magic in Grandma’s Garden. Imagination just grows and grows! Keep writing those wonderful books. I’m not sure if there is room for any more butt books though??
Thanks so much, Marcia! Yes, our four-legged, furry family members give us so much joy and love! And what a wonderful inspiration for a magical-sounding story!
Such a fun post. Thanks for sharing, and please let Koda know that I very much enjoyed his insights. Happy holidays!
Thanks so much, Jennifer! And Koda sends you a wigglewag for the kind words! 🐕
Happy holidays to you and yours!
I know I couldn’t read your debut book without crying. Our fur family’s certainly leave a mark on our hearts. Your book news is exciting! Here’s to continued success (and time for those knees to heal)
Thanks so much, Michelle! I tried to make the dog-speak, and his point of view, feel authentic. Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks so much, Wendy! Yes, our furry family members are so special! 🐕
Derrick, I love that you took the time and care to include “dog-speak” in THE LONGEST LETSGOBOY.. It is so important for readers to understand that other people and species not only communicate differently , but also experience the world differently. THANK YOU!
(I thought I’d already replied to this, so please ignore if it’s a duplicate! :)) Thanks so much, Michelle, and so glad you appreciated the dog-speak! Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Congrats, Derick! It is a long and winding road. I’m glad your wordsonpages have a found a good home. Chronicle makes beautiful books!
Thanks so much, Jilanne! And yes, I feel fortunate that my initial books landed with Chronicle!
Nose kisses Koda. You won my heart with your kindness and fur kid speak. Congratulations to you and Derick for a lovely, poignant book. Your journey is everlasting.
Thanks so much, Charlotte! And Koda sends a big wigglewag! 🐕
I love the Always, always, never, ever rule. I’d like to think I do follow it, although maybe not as intentionally as I should. Thank you for this fun interview and the reminder to just sit and be.
Thanks so much, Sara! I’m sure some ideas have slipped through the cracks over the years, which made me pretty diligent about it these days. Koda sends a big wigglewag! 🐕
What a fun post! Love the interview and your Always, Always, Never, Ever rule! Congratulations on your books! Can’t wait to check them out! 🙂
Thanks so much, Abby! And my interviewer is sending a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks for sharing your journey! Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Abby! And Koda is sending you a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks so much, Marci! And Koda is sending a wigglewag! 🐕
Awww, what a beautiful book! I can’t wait to read it. Congrats on your new books!
Thanks so much, Angie! 🐕
Woof! This interview was so fun. We should all be lucky enough to be interviewed by a fourlegs. Congratulations on your book and thank you for sharing the story of your journey!
Thanks so much, Stephanie! Yes, Koda did a surprisingly good job, and is sending you a wigglewag! 🐕
This was such an amazing interview with you and Koda, Derrick! As a total dog person, I loved hearing from your “bestpet”. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Heather! And I think dog people are the best people (Koda agrees)! He’s sending you a wigglewag! 🐕
This post made me smile. I enjoyed Koda’s interview with you. Your books sound fun and I look forward to reading them.
Thanks so much, Maria! And Koda says, “Thanks!” and sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you, Derick. I enjoyed the post. I should remember the Always, Always, Never Ever rule!
Your upcoming books sound intriguing and so fun; I’ll watch out for them.
Thanks so much, YauMei! That rule (when I remember it :)) has really helped me out! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Congrats on the Longest Letsgoboy and upcoming books! Reading the pages share here made me tear up– you’ve captured bestpet perfectly!
Thanks so much, Suzie! And my bestpet sends a wigglewag! 🐕
I enjoyed your interview with Koda and I look forward to reading all of your books. Thanks for sharing your journey and I love your rules and will definitely follow them. Wishing you much continued success!
Thanks so much, Jeannette! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you Derick for sharing your journey. I especially appreciate your Always, Always, Never, Ever rule. It is perfect!
Thanks so much, Lynn! Trying to follow that rule has probably saved many an idea! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
I love your, er Koda’s, voice. Perfect dogspeak. Thanks for sharing your process with us. Your books sound wonderful!
Thanks so much, Cindy! And Koda sends an appreciative wigglewag! 🐕
I love Huskies! What a clever and original idea, never seen anything like that before. The journey is for sure a long, but rewarding one. Even when we fall down and experience all the hardship of the writer’s life. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Effie! Yes, huskies are just wonderful dogs, and Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Oh my golly! I LOVE everything about this post. Derick, I can’t wait to read ALL of your books. Please tell Koda he did an excellent joy of interviewing you. The dogspeak is delightful and charming and spoton!
Thanks so much, Angela! And Koda sends a big wigglewag! 🐕
What a beautiful story idea and format! I can’t wait to read it! Your quote, “Always, Always, Never, Ever” is already gracing the pages of my journal! ; )
Thanks so much, Krysta! And the fact you have a journal already puts you well on your way! 🙂 🐕
Thank you Derick for your adorable story and very helpful advice. I second guess my story ideas constantly because I question if they’re too silly, boring, or complicated. I love that you wrote this book in your dog’s voice. I guess any idea can work as long as it has heart and creativity. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Margot! And Lakota appreciates that you like his voice! 😀🐕 And nothing is too silly, boring, or complicated–well, in actuality, probably a lot of what I write is one or more of those… but I don’t know that until at least traveling down the path with it a bit first.
Good to know! Thanks Derick!
Thank you Derick for your story, and for your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. Best of joy in your continued writing and your gift to the world!
Thanks so much, Lynn! And Koda sends a big wigglewag your way! 🐕
So beautiful. You captured the love and joy I share and I am sure many others! Thank you!
Thanks so much, Lysa! And here’s a big wigglewag from Koda! 🐕
I’m glad you are writing picture books – your books sound fun.
Goodjobboy ! Congratulations on your books ! I’m getting my note cards out so I can write down my own elusive thoughts too.
Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Jim! Yes, those inspirational thoughts can certainly be slippery little beasts! Koda sends a big wigglewag ! 🐕
What an amazing book! I love the doggie words and wonder what my own pooch might say if he could communicate in words. As it is, he has a variety of “looks” and very expressive body language that gets his messages across. He too ages with dignity despite his aches and pains. Never complains. All dogs go to heaven, his groomer tells me. 🙂
Thanks so much, Marie! Yes, our four-legged family members can certainly say a lot with only a look. And Koda sends you a big wigglewag! 🐕
So nice to end this tough year with your inspiration! Thanks for sharing your journey- always helpful!
Thanks so much, Mary! Koda sends you a big wigglewag! 🐕
What a fun post to read! Congratulations on your books.
Thanks so much, Mary! A big wigglewag for you, courtesy of Koda! 🐕
What a clever interview idea. I loved what you said about catching those glimmer of an idea and writing it down before it flits away. This has been an amazing year. I am so grateful for your comments and blazing the trail ahead of me. I am a 12×12 member hoping to win the critique.
Thanks so much, Penny! Sending you a big wigglewag! 🐕
Advice to live by. Thank you! I can’t wait to get my hands on this book.
Thanks so much, Joyce! Sending a new year’s wigglewag your way! 🐕
Enjoyed your post! Congratulations.
Thanks so much, Kathleen! 🐕
I loved the combination of words for your dog speak. It is interesting to think about how they actually hear us. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Megan! Wigglewag! 🐕
You book made my cry so hard – but in a good way!
Thanks so much, Jessica! That’s the ultimate compliment. 🙂 🐕
I wish I had written this book! So clever and touching. I know this letsgoboy will go far. Thank you for this heartwarming and bittersweet story.
Thanks so much! WIgglewag! 🐕
Such a fun interview!
Thanks so much, Larissa! Koda’s glad you enjoyed it! 🐕
Love, love, love your book, and I love the way you did the interview in dogspeak also!
Thanks, thanks, thanks, Marla! 🙂 And Koda’s glad you enjoyed the interview! 🐕
Great interview. 🙂 Congrats on all of your success!
Thanks so much, Chana! And Koda sends a wigglewag!🐕
I love how you remind us there’s inspiration in everyday things (like dog walks), thank you!
Thanks so much, Echo! And yes, for me, dog walks are one of life’s simple pleasures. 🙂 Koda agrees!🐕
What a fun post! And some decent advice, I’ll add!
Thanks so much, Trisha! And Koda sends a wigglewag!🐕
I love that your dog interviewed you for this post! So much good advice and creativity here 🙂
Thanks so much, Brenna! And yes, Koda did a fine job for his first interview–he sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks for sharing your writing journey with us Derek. You are a true inspiration. Congratulations are your new release of The longest LetsGoBoy! I am looking forward to reading all three books and will be adding it to my review list. I know my granddaughter will love all of these…!
Marianne
Thanks so much, Marianne! Hope your granddaughter enjoys them! 🙂
I finally got to read this beautiful book – it’s so loving and poignant and visually bold. Thank you for it and for the story behind it.
Thanks so much, Tina! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
I love the “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. Thank you for sharing, Derick! I can’t wait to read The longest LetsGoBoy.
Thanks so much, Heidi! Hope you enjoy it! 🐕
Okay, I am not at all a pet person, but this was dang charming. Just ordered The Longest Letsgoboy from my library.
“Always, Always, Never, Ever” is some good advice, especially here on the cusp of January Storystorm. Thanks for sharing your story!
Thanks so much, Elizabeth! Hope you enjoy it! 🐕
Thank you so much for your post. Nice Job! Hearing the backstory and how the story came to life is always the best part. Thank you!
Thanks so much, Terri! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
I love the “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule! I will keep that in mind this month as I participate in Storystorm! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Anne! Have fun with Storystorm! 🐕
Haha, I like the interview! Congrats on your books. Thank you.
Thanks so much, Alison! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
This was such an entertaining interview Derek, thank you for sharing. Congratulations on your wonderful stories. Have a safe and Happy New Year!!
Thanks so much, Catherine! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Derick – Thank you for your post. I love a good dog story and am scouring my libraries trying to find The Longest LetsGoBoy and your other books. Thanks again for the inspiration.
Thanks so much, Marilyn! Hope you find Letsgoboy (if it’s not in your local library, you can request it :)) and enjoy it! 🐕
Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks so much, Bettie! 🐕
Derick not Dereck. My apologies.
Congratulations on your book, Derick…they sound funny, creative, and filled with heart. I can’t wait to check them all out! Happy 2022!
Thanks so much, Katie! Hope you enjoy them! 🐕
Thanks Derick for helping me find my happy place!
Thanks so much, Jany! 🐕
Tha!nks for these wonderful insights. Will remember the Always, Always, Never, Ever rule you suggest!
Thanks so much, Linda Kay! 🐕
I love the “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule! I can pin it up in my own study and share it with my students!
Thanks so much, Jen! Hope the rule helps you and your students wrangle all those wonderful idea sprites!! 🐕
I admire your approach; immersed in the forest. How better to portray the natural elements to their fullest. Kudods!
Thanks so much, Linda! I love the forest, and tell my accountant I should be able to write off my running shoes! 🙂 🐕
I love the voice of that dog. Such personality shining through!
Thanks so much, Dianna! Lakota was such an expressive boy! 🐕
Loved reading about the journey of your book! It’s so beautifully told in both words and art.
Thanks so much, Cheryl! 🐕
Wise advice from Koda! I’ll practice my leg-lifting.
Thanks so much, Ilona! Yes, a good skill to have if you spend a lot of time in the woods. 🙂 Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Dina! 🐕
Love the Always, Always, Never, Ever rule. Can’t wait to read The Longest Letsgoboy!
Thanks so much, Susan! Hope you enjoy it! 🐕
What a fun post! I love the “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. It’s so true!
Thanks so much, Mary! 🐕
I love the way you spent time in nature, and were present to everything around you. I wrote a picture book about a museum and realized I had to go to the museum a number of times to truly understand what I was writing about.
Thanks so much, Leslie! Yes, nature is my writing sanctuary. A museum is another wonderful place to spend time–an immersive approach, for me, helps a lot! 🐕
The pups perspective…a great place to be. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Regina! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Derrick, Congrats on this book. I love the POV and the dog-speak. I am so glad you found and editor who’d believe in the project. BTW – Koda is a great interviewer. Well worth the extra treats! Thanks for a great post.
Thanks so much, Maria! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
This book sounds wonderful, I can’t wait to read it. I love your, “always, always, never, ever,” rule, I’m going to remember that! Congratulations on The Longest Letsgoboy and your upcoming, Does a Bulldozer Have a Butt!
Thanks so much, Penelope! Hope you enjoy our story, and Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Such a fun post! I love the interview format. Congratulations on all your success!
Thanks so much, Jennifer! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Congrats on all your hard earned success!!!
Thanks so much, Aileen! 🐕
Thanks for sharing this funny interview with us. I look forward to your butts book–what a great idea!
Thanks so much, Christine! And my daughter says thanks, since it was really her idea! 🙂
Reading about the journey of THE LONGEST LETSGOBOY was fun and inspiring. Thank you for sharing! Your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule is as perfect as your dog-speak…both are words to live by. I can’t wait to read *all* of your books coming soon. Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Ilona! Hope you enjoy my books! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
I’ve been terribly lax in not reading the monthly featured author posts…something told me to check out this one…and I’m so glad I did. I LOVE your ‘always, always, never, ever’…if you aren’t doing a blog post for Tara’s Storystorm this year, Derrick, you need to reach out to her and do one for next year. That’s such a fabulous idea capture technique! And I LOVE how you found the right words to ‘dogspeak’ in the book. Congratulations on this book and on your upcoming books!
Thanks so much, Vivian! I’ll get in touch with Tara. And Koda sends you a big wigglewag. 🐕
A tale waggin’ good tale! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much, Robin! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Derick, thank you for sharing your journey with us. I enjoyed reading your creative interview almost as much as I enjoyed reading The Longest Letsgoboy. I’m looking forward to reading your upcoming books. Congratulations on your success, Derick!
Thanks so much, Maria! So glad you liked Letsgoboy–Lakota would send a big wigglewag! 🐕
Love the “Always, always, never, ever” rule. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Cynthia! 🐕
Looking forward to reading this one
Hope you enjoy it, Nicole! Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank heavens for our kids and pets as inspiration! Looking though their eyes is a wonderful perspective. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and journey!
Thanks so much, Renata! 🐕
Such a beautiful concept! Love the perspective!
Thanks so much, Jeanette! 🐕
The new book looks wonderful. I can’t wait to read it. Thanks for the great post!
Thanks so much, Maria! Hope you enjoy it! 🐕
Thank you Derick! Writing the book from a dog’s perspective is so creative!
Thanks so much, Jacqueline! And Koda sends a wigglewag! 🐕
Clever post, Derick! Love the always, always, never, ever rule!
Thanks so much, Ann! 🐕 I really do try to follow it, but don’t always, always manage to. 🙂
Love, love, love this interview and your cleverness! Well done. Congratulations on this book and your next and all that are to come!
Thanks, thanks, thanks so much, Amy! 🙂 🐕
I love this story, Derick! Thanks for making time for this interview!
Thanks so much, Mary Beth! 🐕
Thank you for the inspiration, Derick! What a cleverly-constructed and creative post! I love the humor and heart-warming style you’ve used in your writing. I cannot wait to read The Longest Letsgoboy; I know it will make me cry. Our dog Bella is my first, and she is such a beautiful part of our family. My boys grew up with her, and she is the daughter I never had. I can’t imagine life without her; but, when that heart-breaking day does come, I’m sure your book will give me – and my family – great comfort.
Xox Jen
Oh, and as a preschool teacher, I can guarantee you that your butt book will be an instant favorite!
Thanks so much, Jennifer! Hope you enjoy it! Yes, it’s always so hard to lose our four-legged family members. Most of my Reading Giraffe students are preschoolers, so it was so fun to be able to finally read one of my own books to them after almost 10 years of running classes. 🐕
HI Derick, I can totally relate to your comments about the creative brethren navigating the gauntlet when you are yet to make it through. Congratulations on your success and many more to come. Thanks for sharing. Danielle
Thanks so much, Danielle! 🐕
Congrats Derick! This book hits hard with the emotions and I cried like a baby – it was a good cry!
Thanks so much, Deborah–so glad you connected with Letsgoboy! 🐕
I love this interview so much and now I can’t wait to get my hands on your books. Congratulations on all your upcoming wordsonpage! 🙂
Thanks so much, Rebecca! Hope you enjoy Letsgoboy and my upcoming wordsonpages! 🐕
Such a sweet and funny post—congratulations!
Thanks so much! 🐕
Lovely interview and perfect insight from your fabulous interviewer! Happy 2022!
Thanks so much, Susan! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Keep ‘em coming, Derick!
Thanks so much, Maureen! From your lips to some editor’s ears! 🙂 🐕
This was beautiful! And it is amazing how you can always make a post unique. I love your dog’s faces.
Thanks so much, Cedar! 🐕
What a wonderful journey. Congratulations on your new and forthcoming books.
Thanks so much, Janet! 🐕
Thanks so much for your insights! Very helpful. Have a Happy New Year!
Thanks so much, Craig! 🐕
Am so pleased I caught up with this today – I thought I’d missed it. Love the doggy words – really evocative. And great to hear your journey. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Joan! 🐕
This was a great interview! I loved The Longest Letsgoboy. I also loved reading about the “Alway, always, never, ever” rule – great advice!
Thanks so much, Kara! 🐕
Brilliant – looooove your interviewer! Excited to read your book. And love your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule.
Thanks so much! 🐕
Thanks for sharing your journey – love the interviewer and the interview!
Thanks so much, Paula! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Derrick,
Thanks for the interview. I love dogs and Koda was a great interviewer. Your books sound like fun!
Thanks so much, Elyse! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Hi Derick, thanks for sharing. I can’t wait to read your books they sound wonderful! Congratulations!!!
Thanks so much, Laura! Hope you enjoy them! 🐕
Your “dogspeak” is amazing and your post very inspiring! Congratulations on all your success!
I LOVE this! I’ve got to read this book. Dogs are the BEST!! I’ve adopted your “always, always, never, ever” rule! And your next book sounds hilarious!! Butts are funny! That’s why I created my Animal Parade line with animals heads and tails! Thanks for the inspiration, Derick!
Thanks so much, Traci! 🐕
So many exciting things on the horizon! Congrats!
Thanks so much, Jessica! 🐕
Great interview, Koda! 😉
And thank you for the inspiration and eye-opening perspective, Derrick!
Thanks so much, Kathy! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Wow! Great stories and you brought a smile to my face indeed! LOVE the ideas of auto-butts!! Sounds really funny and entertaining!! 🙂
Thanks so much, Latarsha! Hope you enjoy our upcoming butt (and then underpants) book! 🐕
Congrats Derrick. I’m still laughing at your great dog speak. How wonderful to have 3 books coming out.
Thanks so much, Deborah! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Love the Always, Always, Never, Never philosophy! May this New Year bring a cornucopia of new ideas.
Thanks so much, Sandhya! Yes, may 2022 be a year of creativity! 🐕
Thanks so much for your helpful post. Such a touching story!
Carolyn
Thanks so much, Carolyn! 🐕
I thoroughly enjoyed this interview conducted by a canine! 😊
Thanks so much, Tara! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Looks good. Look forward to reading.
Thanks so much, Jennifer! Hope it brings you a happyface! 🐕
Thank you, Derrick! Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Liliya! 🐕
Congrats on your books. I do have dog envy. 🙂 but that’s another story. PS your daughter should get at least an acknowledgment, if not royalties.
Thanks so much, Stephanie! Agreed–my daughter is in the acknowledgements for my first two books. 🙂 And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Thanks, Derick, for that always, always, never, ever rule! My memory is terrible and inspiration is so slippery… Thanks Koda for your wordsonpage wisdom! You clearly are a wise pup. And congrats both on the beautiful PB!!
Thanks so much, Lisa! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Great piece, Derick Wilder! I will forever smile when I read my own crappy drafties of wordsonpages. Oh, and tell Koda, I also love bigwild, but my current place to sit and stay is milesofsand. He’d love it, too.
Thanks so much, Gretchen! Milesofsand also sounds like a wonderful place to go on a letsgoboy! 🐕
Derrick your book has pride of place on my coffee table where I make people read it and watch them try not to cry! So beautiful, congratulations!
Thanks so much, Kirsten! So honored that Letsgoboy found its way onto such a prized place. And Koda sends a wigglewag of comfort to anyone who cries! 🐕
Derick, congratulations on you latest and upcoming releases! I love your dog’s advice for writing books!
Thanks so much, Dina! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Lakota! What sweet inspiration! Thanks for sharing your process. Love to see how others find a story. It looks adorable.
Thanks so much, Julie! 🐕
Congrats on your debut and upcoming books, and thank you for a wonderful interview! I love The Longest Letsgoboy and look forward to what’s next. Thanks also to Koda for the (mostly) great advice!
Thanks so much, Lisa! And HA — Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you, Derek. Your dog is a top-notch interviewer, you better watch someone doesn’t steal him! 🙂
I love the idea of your cherished dog’s last days being your book’s subject. I look forward to reading it.
Thanks so much, Michele! Hope you enjoy Letsgoboy. And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Derrick, much like your ease of storytelling in the book, your post came across as if you are an old and dear friend. Thank you for sharing your process with us, your time, and your beautiful pup!
Thanks so much, Samantha! I think many of us in kidlit are kindred spirits, which is akin to being old and dear friends. 🙂 And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
I’m so excited by this! One of my books is from a dog POV!
Cool–best of luck with it, Melanie! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
‘…initial crappy drafty… 50 revisions… multiple rejections… in only six “short” years from that initial draft, our book was release.’
Haha. This gives us all hope. Thanks for sharing, Derrick!
Thanks so much, Terri! Kidlit is certainly not for the faint of heart nor thin of skin (though I’m still working on the latter)! 🙂
Oh, oh, I am both excited and a wee bit anxious I will admit, about reading yours and Koda’s story…I will just steel myself for tears. And I know I will love it!
My 8-year-old mini-mutt is my best friend, I happen to be a total pushover when it comes to dogs. Even extends to the puppy, who just recently joined our household, and has turned our lives upside down!
Thank you for your post, and Koda for the super interview, entertaining and informative!
Thanks so much, Katie–hope you enjoy it! And Koda sends you and your mini-mutt a wigglewag! 🐕
Love that you included the real “live” pix of your journalist pooch! I love to see where stories are inspired from.
Thanks so much, Michelle! I also love reading about the inspiration behind stories, so decided to do the same! 🐕
Love the live doggie pix with the article!
Thanks so much, Michelle! And Koda sends you a wigglewag! 🐕
Loved the interview with your dog!
Thanks so much, Rebecca! And Koda is sending you a big wigglewag!
Thanks much Derick, for your books, boost, talk, and Koda’s advice. …Letgoboy is brilliant and emotionally satisfying – a whole doggone world in dreamy color. Bus Butt stories rule and Koda stands out, too. I came to this 12×12 party late, (jan. 9) but intend to read your books and imbibe 12×12 in ’22. As for our kids inspiring us, my grandson wants royalties too, for characters, ideas, and reads he has “given” me. They deserve it! Happy creating in 2022! Sheila in NYC.
Thanks so much, Sheila! So glad you enjoyed Letsgoboy and welcome to the party! Koda sends you a big wigglewag! 🐕
I loved this interview! I must start implementing your “Always, Always, Never, Ever” rule. Thank you so much for sharing your journey.
Thanks so much, Patricia! Hope it helps–I almost always follow it, and then regret it when I forget. 🙂 Koda sends you a big wigglewag! 🐕
Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Kassy! Koda sends you a big wigglewag! 🐕
Derick, I love this creative and beautiful post as much as I love your creative and beautiful picture book! Thank you for the inspiration!
Aww…thanks so much, Kari! It’s been great being on the PB Playground with you (and congratulations to you as well)! Koda sends a big wigglewag! 🐕