Sometimes writers enter contests to receive feedback on a yet-to-be-published project, and find out if they are on the right track. .  . Seeking validation from judges who routinely review manuscripts - and because most contests are set up as a "blind" submission (no names revealed), judges determine if the work stands on its own.

That's what I did with this unpublished picture book project. I love this sweet little story, but yet it has met with resistance from some because it falls into a category of books that may seem "saturated" at times. (But it has received an endorsement from a key editor in the industry, too!) Pitching your project is like trying to find that perfect match between topic and willing editor at just the right moment. I'm going to give this one all I can - and find a home for it someday!

Location: PABLO CREEK REGIONAL LIBRARY
13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville FL 32246
Date: Saturday SEPT 9, 2023 10:30 – 12:00 
 
Do you think the path to publication is a straight line from point A to point B?
(Write a manuscript and then sign a contract . . .) That’s often NOT the case. Join me as I share the twists and turns encountered in the process of selling my award-winning picture book, THE SUPERLATIVE A. LINCOLN: Poems About our 16th President (Charlesbridge). Importantly, I will share my TOP TEN TIPS for children’s writers seeking publishing success. Q & A included.  Program applicable for those who are pre-published and published.

Comments from an author who has attended this program: “Fabulous program. Every newish writer should see Eileen's program. So well organized, interesting, hopeful, inspiring.”
             -- Patricia Hruby Powell, award-winning Illinois Author
  

Shhhhhh—for most of 2022 I've been keeping a big secret about a new picture book project . . . (waiting on finalized illustrator details to go public.)

​BUT I can tell you that the book is a rhyming ode to a perfect sunny day at play!  Pack up your shovels and buckets—and stay tuned for more news about my tribute to the joy of building a SANDCASTLE!   I can't wait for this book to find its way to readers young and old who also love beach days. . .  More soon.