We live in a country of extraordinary privilege, yet many author spaces have shifted from storytelling and craft toward constant commentary, personal ideology, and self-centered performance. Recent news cycles make this even more visible, with reactions often feeling performative rather than thoughtful. I am not here to list world news or pass judgment on true […]
In the publishing world, authors and creatives face unique challenges. Some thrive with gratitude, always willing to collaborate, share advice, and celebrate others. Others may lose sight of humility along the way. Success in publishing can change how people move through the world, but it does not have to. Gratitude and humility are essential for
This week I received three rejection letters from literary agents. Each one was polite and professional. Each one reminded me of two lines from the movie You’ve Got Mail. “You are what you read.” — Kathleen Kelly, You’ve Got Mail (1998)“It’s not personal, it’s business.” — Joe Fox, You’ve Got Mail (1998) As writers, the
When people think of publishing, they often imagine a world of literary lunches, author signings, and cozy offices filled with books. But for many professionals in the industry, the reality is far different—a reality that raises important questions about fairness and equity in the workplace. The Multifaceted Role of Publishing Professionals In the publishing industry,
Writing stories that truly matter means more than just entertaining readers. When I created Adventures in Oculus I wanted to do something deeper, crafting a middle grade fantasy series that blends adventure with hope and heart where the richness of Catholic faith gently guides the journey without overwhelming the story. At its core Adventures in
So, you’ve finished your manuscript—congratulations! Whether it’s a heartfelt picture book or a sprawling middle-grade adventure, reaching this point is a huge milestone. If traditional publication is your goal, submitting your work is the next big step. But before you dive into QueryTracker and start sending out queries, there are a few things I wish
Dear friends and fellow book lovers, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be participating in the 3rd Annual Author Fest at the Lone Star College-Tomball Community Library on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local authors, discover new books, and
Hello, fellow storytellers! Embarking on the path of self-publishing has been a transformative journey—one filled with learning curves, creative freedom, and a deep connection with readers. As I continue to navigate this landscape, I wanted to share some insights and experiences that have shaped my approach to writing and marketing. Building Connections Through Storytelling At
As a self-published middle grade author currently seeking representation for my picture book, I recently co-hosted an insightful episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast with my co-host, Jackie Garcia-Morales. In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing acclaimed children’s book illustrator John Parra, delving into the intricate relationship between text and illustration in children’s
Hey fellow authors! If you’re anything like me, you know that marketing your book can be pretty expensive. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to spend a fortune to get your book out there. There are actually a ton of free or low-cost events you can participate in to help promote your book—and
