Posts
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Conflict into Connection
I was feeling a little annoyed at what was turning up in the laundry (does no one in my house check their pockets?!) And when I pulled out the bandaid I was struck (stuck?) with inspiration: I can make it a conflict, or a fun opportunity for connection. I laughed my way through writing the… Read more
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Books for older kids who only read graphic novels
(These suggestions are specifically targeted at older elementary and even middle school readers stubborn or nervous about branching out. For tips for younger or struggling readers stuck on graphic novels, a companion post is coming shortly). “My kid will only read graphic novels.” I hear this from parents all the time. In this case, from… Read more
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Easy DIY Creativity Camp
Get your kids’ creativity jump-started this summer with SAWYER’S BIG IDEA and BEA’S BALIKBAYAN BOX OF TREASURES. Read more
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SAWYER’S BIG IDEA Activities
From all the workshops, and story-times I’ve done as an author, I developed some great hands-on activities to help kids get their creative brains going, and keep track of their ideas. These are great as independent stations or with instruction. Add them to your sub plans, camp activities, or story/craft time! BUILD A ROBOT MODEL… Read more
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Teen Book + Summer Get-out Activity
Having my kids growing up has been great. I haven’t changed a diaper or thought about naptime in years. But as they get older a lot of summer activities they used to do have become way less cool… “Want to go to the park?” (groan) “Let’s go on a bike ride!” (moan) “Who wants to… Read more
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Why Your 1500 Word Picture Book Manuscript Probably Needs Work
What’s wrong with my picture book manuscript having 1500 words? I’ve answered this question twice this month for prospective authors, so for others who may be wondering, let me explain: Most of us in children’s publishing hear “1500 word picture book” and we immediately suspect a problem. That’s because publishers are saying that they want… Read more
