Both Things Can Be True:
As my debut book birthday is coming up soon, I feel both gratitude and worries. I’m immensely grateful to everyone who has helped me realize my dream of becoming a children’s book author. For years, I wished for the day when my stories would become books and in the hands of children everywhere. However, I’m also feeling anxious about how readers will respond to my words and wonder if they’ll connect with my story as I’d hoped. The journey to publication is a hard one. I encourage you to allow yourself the grace to feel whatever you need to feel along the way. Celebrate each step forward as a win on your journey. And take time to feel disappointed, sad or cry if you need to when you feel stuck or wonder if you’ll ever find an agent or editor who will champion your work. As an introvert, I also worry about book launches and promotions. I find it helpful to have a post- it board in my writing space with positive quotes and messages that inspire me. I remind myself that it takes courage to share one’s stories. The road to publication is not a sprint, but more of a marathon. Pace yourself and be prepared to work hard! Above all, you must believe in your stories before others will!
Write The Stories Only You Can Tell:
Oftentimes, I am asked what I write about. Or How do I find inspiration for my books. Many people write from their experiences or interests. I choose to write stories inspired by my refugee experiences and Vietnamese heritage. These are the stories I feel most comfortable writing because they are my truths. They come from my memories and my heart. I also recognize the need for representation in children’s literature. I want children to have books that help them feel seen and to know that their experiences matter. Write stories that only you can tell. Write them from your unique perspective. Research and mentor texts are helpful as we can always learn from information we gather and other narratives. There may be many books written about the same subject matter. What will make your book stand out is what you bring to it. Keep working on developing your craft and your voice.
Stay True To The Heart of Your Story:
Be open to revisions and feedback from others. Each of my picture book manuscripts have been through many rounds of revisions. To go from story idea to published book requires a team effort. Be open to making changes that strengthen your story plot by adding layers of connection that may still be needed for your story to feel meaningful or complete. But, sometimes the feedback does not serve the story or your vision for it. If you feel strongly that a particular suggestion doesn’t feel right or changes the heart of your story, then listen to your inner voice and do what you feel is best for that specific book. Sometimes I’ve had to advocate for my stories to be told authentically. I always remind myself that it’s not just about getting published. It’s also important to feel good about the choices I make on my writing journey to protect the integrity of my stories.
Be Kind and Build Community:
I have been blessed to have met and established meaningful relationships with other kindhearted creators from the Kid Lit community. Attending in-person writer’s conferences is a great way to network and meet other writers. I also attend book events at local bookstores to support local authors. By attending book events, you can lift up other creators and also support independent bookstores. Book people are the ones who truly understand the trials and tribulations of being a writer.
Pay It Forward:
I have been fortunate to have mentors on my journey. Their kind guidance has been pivotal in my growth and confidence as a writer. I appreciate their willingness to share their experiences and knowledge with me. They embody the humility and grace I admire as I take next steps as a published author. I believe it is important to pay it forward by volunteering with writer’s organizations or by mentoring pre published authors as they navigate and map out their own creative journeys.