Hi Reader!
About a week ago I stood in front of a group of authors, illustrators, and aspiring authors and illustrators at the Spring Oklahoma/Arkansas SCBWI Conference. Sharing my publishing story in front of this group was fun, and hopefully encouraging to those listening.
In a nutshell, I wrote a number of manuscripts, and illustrated manuscripts. I put in the hard work, got feedback, improved, and sent out my work to the agents and publishers… only to be rejected by all.
My project, Storm Trucks, was one I truly believed in. When my son was three years old, he was afraid of thunderstorms—which is a bad thing in Oklahoma, as we get a lot of them. One day, as rain pounded on the window and thunder boomed, he clung to my leg. I said, “That sounds like trucks working up in the sky.” His face changed from fear to wonder, and he walked over to the window and looked up at the sky, trying to see the trucks.
I knew the power that imagination could have in helping children reframe their fears into wonder. I wanted to see this project through and independently published my book.
The self-publishing road was a big learning curve because I wanted to make my book professional. A beautiful hardback book, printed on quality paper at an offset printer. I ran a kickstarter to fund it, and had support from many people. And, praise the Lord, my book is published and receiving praise from parents and children who want to read my book every night at bedtime.
I learned that no one has to give you permission to be an author… except you.
Many people came up to me after my presentation and talked about how encouraging my talk was. All of this didn’t stop me from feeling like I didn’t measure up to the traditionally published authors and illustrators. I still submit work to agents and publishers… and I still get rejections. I don’t even know if having an agent is the best path for me, but I keep subjecting myself to it.
I just wanted to be real with you. I have worked hard at writing and illustrating. I am still working hard, and I am still not to where I someday hope to be. Even so, I have stories inside me that I have to tell, and I love doing the work to do that.
Thank you for coming on this journey with me. Thank you for believing in my work, for supporting a mom and former preschool teacher with a dream of sharing hopeful and imaginative stories with children. I am really so grateful for each and every one of you. Your comments and support make all the difference!
Everybody has the choice of being a hero or not being a hero every day of their lives. You can either help somebody, be compassionate toward people, treat people with dignity, or not. One way you become a hero and the other way, you’re part of the problem.
George Lucas
Author/Illustrator Updates:
I've been reworking some sections of my next picture book, and redoing sketches and finishing more pictures. I can't wait to share the finished book with you!
The story is about a big-sister superhero who is sure the family’s new baby has turned her invisible. Full of comic-book energy, playful sound effects, and a warm emotional ending, this funny and reassuring story helps young readers process the big feelings that can come with welcoming a new baby. (That's my elevator pitch for agents/publishers. Does it sound like a book you'd want to read?)
Here's an image I've been working on lately. I'm still playing with the background...
Want an event near you?
I am currently booking storytime events and author visits.
These events are fun, interactive, and engaging with songs, fingerplays, and reading for preschool-aged kids. I can also do author/illustrator chats for elementary aged kids. If you know any stores or schools who might be interested in an event such as this, I would love to connect with them.
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Book Reviews:
Picture Book:
Written and Illustrated by Antoinette Portis
For Pre-K to 2nd grade, this is a funny read that will make kids think about aliens in a whole new way!
Read Review • Purchase
Picture Book:
Written by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan
Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Salt in His Shoes is such a sweet and encouraging story, especially for kids who feel frustrated waiting for something they really want. Watching a young Michael Jordan learn patience, practice, and perseverance makes this a great read for little athletes—and a meaningful reminder that growth takes time.
Read Review • Purchase
Middle Grade:
Written by Rick Riordan
Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is a fast-paced, adventure-filled story that hooked my kids right away. With Greek mythology coming to life, plenty of humor, and nonstop danger, it’s a fun read—but one parents may want to preview first. If your kids love action and mythology, this is a great series starter to read together.
Read Review • Purchase
Young Adult:
Written by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s novels are so much more than romance—they’re thoughtful, witty explorations of human nature and the choices we make. Rereading her complete works reminded me how each story wrestles with themes like pride, selfishness, and balance, all while staying engaging and genuinely funny. It’s no wonder her books have stood the test of time.
Read Review • Purchase
Adult:
Written by Richard Osman
The Thursday Murder Club is a clever, funny, and surprisingly moving mystery about four retired friends who love solving cold cases—until a real murder lands right in front of them. With quirky characters, heart, and plenty of twists, this was a great book club pick.
Read Review • Purchase
Until next time, keep reading!
Charlotte Glaze
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Thank you - now go read with your family!
