Blog -- Blue Rose Girls

Another blog I like to keep up with is a blog jointly written called Blue Rose Girls, created by a group of friends who one day decided to create a blog together. It's not a blog of writers. It's not a blog of illustrators. It's not a blog of editors. IT'S ALL THREE!

Not only that, but there are links to their individual blogs and webpages, as well.

Who are these wonderful people? You just might recognize some of their names:

Anna Alter

Libby Koponen

Grace Lin

Meghan McCarthy

Elaine Magliaro

Linda S. Wingerter

and Alvina. Now, I once knew Alvina's last name, but she doesn't use it on this blog and I have forgotten it. (pssst. she's an editor)

They describe themselves and their blog this way:

In the tradition of the Red Rose Girls, a group of children's book professionals (authors, illustrators, an editor, and one former librarian) discuss everything kidlit related; from industry news and the ever-changing world of publishing to the creative process with all its frustrations and inspirations. Please join us in the discussion!

-wo

You have to be GOOD (at what you do) part 2

Ah, another great discussion is beginning over at the Blue Rose Girls blog.
First there was a discussion sparked off by Meghan McCarthy's post about needing talent to succeed in the publishing world. Meghan is an illustrator who also writes.

This time Libby Koponen discusses the important things a Writer must have to have a successful career.
She calls her post: What does it take to succeed as a novelist?

Interestingly enough, many of their items are the same, with some differences.
Again, they've invited everyone to chime in with comments about their own experiences in the publishing world.
Do you believe it's BIC?
Is it talent?
More?

I'd advise you to keep checking back to that post to see what others have contributed.
-wendie O

You have to be GOOD (at what you do)

You've gotta go read this blog post by Meghan McCarthy over at the Blue Rose Girls. You know, the author/ illustrator of Seabiscuit Wonder Horse, Aliens are Coming!, Astronaut Handbook, etc., etc., etc.

Once you read her message, do read all the wonderful comments.
A huge discussion is happening there about talent. You know -- How to succeed in this crazy writing books business.
Is it Luck?
or Talent?
Or shear persistence and learning the craft?
(and how much of these do you need to have?)
-wendieO