 Amanda Jones definitely gives writing tips in this episode such as listen to music that reflects the mood that you're trying to convey in your manuscript, start with a bang to hook the reader, and seek feedback from a trusted reader. But most importantly, she talks about striving to make the world a better place. And the truth is that's what each one of us is trying to do when we put pen to paper or walk into a classroom or give a school presentation. Our hope is that our words and ideas bring joy, wonder, and acceptance to each reader that happens upon our work. Some days the work feels overwhelming, and we may feel defeated before we step foot inside the door or sit down at the desk, but Amanda discusses the importance of persevering to help others. Amanda also quotes Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop and reminds us that books are mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors. Some books Amanda recommends that provide those opportunities for reflections and invitations are: Undefeated by Kwame Alexander Big by Vashti Harrison Hair Love ABCs by Matthew Cherry A Walk in the Woods by Nikki Grimes The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorham In addition to teaching and writing, we can make the world a better place by advocating for our libraries and supporting our librarians. Here are three steps you can take to make a difference. During the podcast, Amanda talks about dropping off kind notes and baked goods to your local library to let your librarians know you're grateful for all that they do. In her book, That Librarian, Amanda lets people know about We the Librarians, which is an organization that helps school librarians support other school librarians. Finally, we can make a difference by fighting against book bans. Please read about the Mahmoud vs. Taylor Supreme Court Case. You can help support Sarah Brannen, the creator of Chalk + Ink's artwork. Her picture book, Uncle Bobby's Wedding, is one of nine books that parents are trying to ban. Sign a petition and speak up against book banning. In the meantime, happy listening!
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 Take PRIDE in your passion. It can lead to opportunities that you never dreamed of like a book deal with Harper Collins. That's what happened to Sarah Prager after she created Quist, a queer history app. But once she had the deal to write a young adult anthology about queer people who changed the world, she had to figure out how to write in a YA voice, which structure would hook readers, and which 23 out of 200 historical figures she had researched for Quist to include in Queer There and Everywhere. And she had nine months to do it. Was it easy? No. But if you listen to the episode she'll explain how she did it and how that one book deal led to three more. Sarah recommends that schools have the following books: Homeland: My Father Dreams of Palestine by Hannah Moushabeck What Are Your Words? by Katherine Locke I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I enjoyed creating it. |
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February 2025
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