You may know the old fable, A Man, his Son, and their Donkey: A man set out on a trip with his son and their donkey. His son sat up on the donkey while the man walked beside them. They were happy on their way. As they passed through town, a man said: “That healthy… Continue reading Friday Fable: A Writer, her Delete Key, and their Story
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Upcoming Events for Children’s Writers
There are several upcoming events in the world of children's literature within a few hours' drive of home. (My home, that is.) Check these out: GET PUBLISHED! Creators share their experience, publishers tell all, and booksellers reveal the ins and outs of bookselling at this full-day seminar from the Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC). Three panels of… Continue reading Upcoming Events for Children’s Writers
Friday’s Fable: The Would-be Writer
You might know the old slave's tale, "The Milkmaid": A girl was on her way to market carrying a jug of milk on her head. As she walked, she began to daydream about the money the milk would bring her. “With the money I make from the milk, I’ll buy a basket of eggs," she thought.… Continue reading Friday’s Fable: The Would-be Writer
Back to School
Oh, that lovely schoolbus roar. Yes, it has begun - here in Quebec, school is in session. (As of yesterday.) Packed lunches, 6:30 alarms, goodbye waves, and - at last - peaceful offices. My entire family takes August off. When my children are not unplugged at the cabin, they are hogging the computer. I have half-forgotten how to write. (Lame excuse,… Continue reading Back to School
Evolution of a Novel
My new middle-grade novel, 26 Tips for Surviving Grade 6, comes out next month from James Lorimer & Company. Just in time for back to school. It's a comedy aimed at reluctant readers, and it's my first book with a female protagonist: Becky Lennox. I love that girl. Her story didn't take a long time to write, yet it was… Continue reading Evolution of a Novel
Catherine Austen 