The encouragement that I would give to other budding authors is to keep writing. Even if you’re not ready to send it away to an agent or publisher (I’d always recommend the agent route) just keep writing and make sure that you are reading lots of books in the genre and age group that you are writing for. Allow a trusted person to read your work and discuss what you’re trying to say and who it’s aimed at.  I also entered writing competitions and took part in free online courses.

I was so happy when Nosy Crow suggest Jade Orlando and sent me samples of her work.  She is an immensely talented illustrator and artist who seemed to know exactly what I had envisaged when writing the book. I couldn't believe she wanted to work on my book as she is an award-winning illustrator. Jade lives and works in Atlanta, Georgia and her colourful illustrations are featured in books, apparel, advertising andso much more. She lives with her husband, a Greyhound named Petra and three cats.

https://www.wordsandpics.org/2024/02/debut-journeys-stephanie-taylor.html

My author readings and workshops are designed to engage and entertain a diverse audience, it is aimed at young readers but because of the subject matter I believe that children and adults of all ages will enjoy and learn something new.

The timeline for creating a picture book varies and you have to have a lot of patience as it is a very slow process. When I wrote 'I'm Going to be a Princess' it took almost three years.  This includes working with my agent on the book before he pitched it to publishing houses, then working with my editor at Nosy Crow. Then you have to decide on an illustrator. The illustrations take a very long time to come together but they are worth the wait as you see your vision for the story come to life.

https://www.wordsandpics.org/2024/02/debut-journeys-stephanie-taylor.html