The Weekly 411 (6/6/14)

June 6, 2104 Issue # 22

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AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

This week we welcome Ame Dyckman in the Author Spotlight, and Andrea Skyberg in the Illustrator Spotlight.

KIDLIT NEWS

Agent News: Heather Alexander joined Pippin Properties as a literary agent. Heather is looking for "a broad range of children’s book authors and illustrators, from picture books through young adult, including graphic novels. She’s most interested in unique characters, strong voices, and quirky humor.”

Agent Alert: Agent Renee Nyen of kt literary is looking for YA and MG

Agent Sarah Davies and YA author Jessie Humphries guest post on Literary Rambles and are giving away a query critique and more.

Have you heard about the Amazon & Hachette dispute? Emma Walton Hamilton explains how this dispute hurts authors: "Amazon v. Hachette: A Custody Battle for the Future of Books?" David Sedaris and children's author-illustrator Nina Laden on NPR: "Authors Angered over Amazon's dispute with Publisher Hachette." Independent publisher Martin Sheppard takes another view, defending Amazon: "Who's Afraid of Amazon.com?" Author David Gaughran looks at motives of the key players: "Amazon v Hachette: Don't Believe the Spin"

For Writers

13 Ways to Convince a Literary Agent to Represent You

The Chicago Manual of Style: New Questions and Answers

Middle Grade

The Best of the Underrated Middle School Books

Writing Courses

Oct. 18 - Rutger's One on One Conference for children's writers and illustrators. Spend a day with an assigned mentor (experienced authors, illustrators, editors, art directors and agents), participate in roundtables and discussions.

Social Media

Facebook Groups You Should Join, Kathy Halsey

Diversity in KidLit

Gay Pride: PB, MG and YA Book Recommendations

Inspirational Things

The Essential Ingredient to Your Success That You’re Probably Overlooking

My Journey to Becoming a Children's Book Author & Illustrator, by Aree Chung

Picture Books

Need a Word for That Manuscript?

10 Steps to Self Editing a Picture Book

Writing Courses

Pacific Coast Children's Writers Novel Workshop & Retreat
The 12th annual novel crafting seminar- October 17-19, 2014, Santa Cruz, CA.

Highlights Foundation Revision Retreat