Blog Hop: My Writing Process

The fabulous Emily Lim tagged me in a blog hop about my writing process. Emily and I participate in Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Book Fridays (though I’ve been very bad about posting my reviews lately). Emily’s published several picture books in the Asian market, and recently published a memoir, FINDING MY VOICE. Thanks, Emily, for tagging me!

1. What am I working on?

What am I NOT working on? I am writing and revising two high interest/low reading-level books for an educational publisher. I’m working on a couple of magazine queries. And I’m writing and revising three picture books.

2. How does my work differ from others in its genre?

As far as picture books, I think my work is characterized by strong female leads and informational components. A couple of my favorite drafts actually started as nonfiction concept books, but morphed into real stories with strong characters and narrative arcs. The facts are woven throughout, and I typically include nonfiction back matter.

3. Why do I write what I do?

I write because I like to learn. On assignment, I’ll tackle just about any topic. If I can explain the information to a child, then I know I’ve really learned it. In terms of fiction, I think my nonfiction and science writing really informs my fiction ideas. Oh, and my kids have sparked a few ideas too.

4. How does my writing process work?

Maybe it’s my past as a grant writer or history student, but I’m an outliner. Before I start drafting, I need a strong opening hook or overall concept and a good idea of where I’m going. My own ideas may churn for months before the concept has crystallized enough to write. Endings often are the hardest part, and I revisit them time and time again.

Speaking of challenging endings, I was supposed to tag three other writers in this post. But, alas, it seems everyone I know is 1) too busy or 2) already participated. If anyone wants to join the fun, please let me know!