Thursday, March 21, 2013

March 21, 2013 - Pathways to Publication - Pros Chat



KDuBayGillis Welcome to 2nd Annual Tips From The Pros. Tonight, Path to Publication, co-hosted by yours truly and @AnshaKotyk #mglitchat -9:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk 2.Quick reminder of the Tips From The Pros format: Guests have floor for first 5-10 mins to share tips, then floor opens. #mglitchat -9:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS @clairelegrand And gives you minty fresh breath! #MGLitChat -9:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013



AnshaKotyk @KDuBayGillis bwahaha. i left the 2 in there... oops #mglitchat -9:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis If you have a question for one of our pros, @ them followed by QUESTION in your tweet. #mglitchat -9:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk Tonight we have MG Pros @deborahkovacs @kcemerson @clairelegrand @ZareenJaffery #mglitchat -9:01 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Their bios are available here http://t.co/icDqmPCP36 but we’ll do a quick one-line intro #mglitchat -9:01 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @deborahkovacs is senior vp & editorial director of Walden Pond Press since 2001, publishing dozens of major middle-grade novels #mglitchat -9:01 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Hello everyone! And thank you for inviting me and @clairelegrand to participate @KDuBayGillis and @AnshaKotyk! #mglitchat -9:01 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @kcemerson is the author of THE FELLOWSHIP FOR ALIEN DETECTION with Walden Pond Press, as well as Oliver Nocturne series #mglitchat -9:02 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @ZareenJaffery joined Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers in 2011, where she focuses on commercial and literary YA and MG #mglitchat -9:02 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @AnshaKotyk and @kdubaygillis glad to be here with you all. thanks for the invitation. #mglitchat -9:02 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @clairelegrand is the author of THE CAVENDISH HOME FOR BOYS AND GIRLS (2012) and THE YEAR OF THE SHADOWS, both MG with S&S #mglitchat -9:02 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk And now our Pros have the floor to share their MG path to publication tips! #mglitchat -9:03 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery I guess I'll start out with some tips, and then talk about how Claire and I became an editor/author couple #truelove #mglitchat -9:03 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand hello everyone! thank you so much @kdubaygillis and @AnshaKotyk for inviting me and @ZareenJaffery here tonight! *waves* #mglitchat -9:03 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery This is my first Twitter chat, so please excuse any faux pas! #mglitchat -9:03 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @ZareenJaffery You're doing great! #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


novelsounds @clairelegrand HI CLAIRE! you look quite fetching. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @ZareenJaffery You're doing great! #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Write to please yourself first. It's originality and authenticity that stand out most. #pubtip #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Howdy folks! Glad to be here. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis @AnshaKotyk @ZareenJaffery *WAVES* #mglitchat -9:04 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Am I one of the pros? *looks around sheepishly* #mglitchat -9:05 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Writing to trends can be successful, but it's a hollow victory. People aren't inspired to become writers to make millions-- 1/2 #mglitchat -9:05 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand you're doing awesome @ZareenJaffery! <3 and I'll chime in as it feels right. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @kcemerson Why yes, yes you are... ;) #mglitchat -9:05 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery I'm pretty sure that's as unlikely as winning the lotto. You're in it for the creative outlet. So let yourself be creative. 2/2 #mglitchat -9:06 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery I love @austinkleon's STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST. Full of great advice to help artists find their voice by examining their fave art #mglitchat -9:06 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery For those of you who already have a mss and are looking for an agent, 1/2 #mglitchat -9:06 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery look for those who represent books that would have a similar audience to yours, and authors you admire. 2/2 #mglitchat -9:06 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery And read a lot! That's how you'll get a sense of who is publishing the kinds of books you gravitate to #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Agents and editors are almost always thanked in the acknowledgments, so you can find out who to query that way #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Like any creative partnership, having a shared vision for your work and career is really important. 1/2 #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Mutual respect and admiration is a big part of that. 2/2 #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand totally agree with what Zareen is saying: writing to fit into a pre-existing box is a recipe for flash-in-the-pan success. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Path to publication tip #1: never pick South Dakota State in the f-- oh, sorry. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


jimimiller3 RT @clairelegrand: you're doing awesome @ZareenJaffery! <3 and I'll chime in as it feels right. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @kcemerson and @deborahkovacs, feel free to jump in with your tips. All four pros have the floor. Fire away when ready. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson For real now, my better story ideas have started with a character, not a concept. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery With Claire, I hit the jackpot. When I got Cavendish from her agent @DianaFox, it was instant love #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Then Claire and I talked through revisions, we connected. We shared a vision for the book. This is key. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


catchingfray @kcemerson definitely! I adored The Lost Code to pieces. You are inspiring! #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Claire is super fun, and we had a great discussion. It's not about us agreeing on everything. We often don't! #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand and, something to keep in mind: all the big trendsetters (think HUNGER GAMES) were not written to fit a trend. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @ZareenJaffery @dianafox Absolutely adored Cavendish! #mglitchat -9:08 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson If I can see a character, really hear them, then I can find the right story for them. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery But we're able to hear each other out and talk through the story in a way that is constructive. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


dianahB_ @clairelegrand when did you start writing MG books? At a young age? :) #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @catchingfray Hey thanks! That was a book where I had the character first. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs A few more tips--trust your gut--but verify #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @CAnneFrye Yay! Love hearing that. All praise go to @clairelegrand :) #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand it's true! always makes me nervous when that happens MT @ZareenJaffery It's not about us agreeing on everything. We often don't! #mglitchat -9:09 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs Omit unnecessary words. E.B. White said that. Trust your gut. I said that. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bibliogato RT @clairelegrand: and, something to keep in mind: all the big trendsetters (think HUNGER GAMES) were not written to fit a trend. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @dianahB_ Let's hang tight on questions...we'll let you know when we open the floor. Great question! #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Editor/Author vision is key. You have to be on the same page. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs Also trust your subconscious. It is telling you the story. You must listen to it. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS RT @deborahkovacs: Omit unnecessary words. E.B. White said that. Trust your gut. I said that. #MGLitChat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


novelsounds @clairelegrand very true! I think what makes them trendsetters is that they offer something different. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Mar 21st, 2013


JDFaverauthor RT @deborahkovacs: Omit unnecessary words. E.B. White said that. Trust your gut. I said that. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


catchingfray @kcemerson Is Owen's personality in a way you? #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand RT @deborahkovacs Also trust your subconscious. It is telling you the story. You must listen to it. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @deborahkovacs Good point. Recently heard Sam Lipsyte say you have to start writing the story to know what it's really about. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs A paraphrase of Gary Paulsen: Read like your are a starving animal and the book is your food. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


catchingfray RT @kcemerson: If I can see a character, really hear them, then I can find the right story for them. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


waldenmedia RT @deborahkovacs: Omit unnecessary words. E.B. White said that. Trust your gut. I said that. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand I love what Deborah just said. sometimes you will feel so passionate about a story but it doesn't fit neatly into a box. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @clairelegrand What came first for you for Cavendish: Victoria or the plot? #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Couple more minutes to let the tips fly then we'll give the green light to hit our Pros with your questions. Thanks!! #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @clairelegrand oh, I agree with the subconscious. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @catchingfray I was a little less pathetic than him. But unsure of myself, and not good at putting the words with the feelings. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand but if your gut is telling you this is a story you need to tell, your gut is right. don't be afraid of being true to yourself. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @clairelegrand Agreed! So true. Those "big" books always managed to offer something different/fresh. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson exactly. It's all about listening to what your subconscious is trying to say. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Mar 21st, 2013


raeannparker RT @deborahkovacs: A paraphrase of Gary Paulsen: Read like your are a starving animal and the book is your food. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Don't be afraid to walk from an editor or agent who thinks you should change the soul of your story. (though it's hard) #mglitchat -9:13 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @CAnneFrye awww thank you! @ZareenJaffery brilliantly helped me get it into shape. :) #mglitchat -9:13 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @clairelegrand @ZareenJaffery as any editor, should. ;) #mglitchat <3333 -9:13 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @clarelegrand Totally agree. It's so easy to second guess yourself, especially at the early phase. It's a long haul. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand MT @kcemerson Don't be afraid to walk from an editor or agent who thinks you should change the soul of your story. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Agreed! RT @kcemerson: Don't be afraid to walk from an editor or agent who thinks you should change the soul of your story. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @clairelegrand Sometimes my gut is just telling me that I need a burrito. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson believing in yourself and your vision and putting yourself in the right editorial hands is what it's all about! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery And it's important to know rejection doesn't mean your book is bad. Often it means it's not the right fit! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand I love what @kcemerson just said. one reason I loved working with @ZareenJaffery from our first phone call was that (1/2) #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


catchingfray @kcemerson The latter is a little like Owen! #mglitchat -9:14 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery It's the difference between reading a book you like and can admire objectively 1/2 #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery and reading a book that stays w/ you, and you want everyone you know to read it, too. Immediately, so you can talk about it 2/2 #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


laurenmagaziner RT @clairelegrand: and, something to keep in mind: all the big trendsetters (think HUNGER GAMES) were not written to fit a trend. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


novelsounds @kcemerson @clairelegrand my gut says no to burritos but my heart says yes. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS RT @ZareenJaffery: And its important to know rejection doesnt mean your book is bad. Often it means its not the right fit! #MGLitChat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @zareenjaffery totally agree about the importance of finding just the right fit between author and editor. it is crucial. #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AndreaL_Mack RT @ZareenJaffery: Write to please yourself first. It's originality and authenticity that stand out most. #pubtip #mglitchat -9:15 PM Mar 21st, 2013


MKB4E RT @deborahkovacs: A paraphrase of Gary Paulsen: Read like your are a starving animal and the book is your food. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand she so understood my story's soul. she made me feel 100% comfortable about speaking up if I disagreed with one of her notes. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand I think the important thing to look for when seeking agents/editors is a true spirit of collaboration. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson So true: RT @ZareenJaffery: Its important to know rejection doesnt mean your book is bad. Often it means its not the right fit! #mglitchat -9:16 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery RT @clairelegrand: I think the important thing to look for when seeking agents/editors is a true spirit of collaboration. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss (Not easy to read about burritos and HUNGER GAMES while starving for dinner-- and to write like I'm feeding my starving mss) ;> #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @clairelegrand Exactly. And you'll know it when you find it. And when you don't. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Ok, everyone, thanks for letting our Pros have the floor. Your turn now. Please @ a guest and put QUESTION so they can find it. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


laurenspieller RT @clairelegrand: I think the important thing to look for when seeking agents/editors is a true spirit of collaboration. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


MirandaKennealy yes RT @clairelegrand I think the important thing to look for when seeking agents/editors is a true spirit of collaboration. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand it takes a village to publish a book -- it should be, above all, a partnership born out of mutual love and respect. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs following what @kcemerson said, wait and be patient for the right partner(s). #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Exactly what @clairelegrand said. Think: can I trust this person with my work? #mglitchat -9:17 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand just like a real relationship! ;) #mglitchat -9:18 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Agents and editors have a say in your writing, so make sure you like their influence #mglitchat -9:18 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @clairelegrand seconded. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand it is SO a matter of listening to your gut. I knew from the first moment I spoke with Zareen that she was "the one." hee. ;) #mglitchat -9:18 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs You owe it to your work and to your career to bond with the people who will take you to the next level. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand and, yes, second what Zareen was saying about rejection: it's about finding the right fit. rejection DNE poor quality #mglitchat -9:19 PM Mar 21st, 2013


sirensandbells @clairelegrand What does #mglitchat mean? :) -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs it's the analogue to listening to your subconscious when you are writing. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


halibaumstein Check out the #mglitchat right now to hear great insights from @clairelegrand and @ZareenJaffery on the author-editor relationship! -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand every rejection will help you find out what you DO want out of an agent/editor, teach you something about yourself. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Sometimes you will hear hard feedback. It's important to digest. And important to stand up for something if it feels vital. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @sirensandbells it's a chat going on right now about middle grade literature! :) we're talking about the road to publication. #mglitchat -9:20 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @clairelegrand thought that of course takes a lot of fortitude. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Mar 21st, 2013


CAnneFrye @clairelegrand how different was your first draft of cavendish from the final version? #mglitchat -9:21 PM Mar 21st, 2013


dianezahler @clairelegrand What if you hadn't had that feeling? Would you have walked away w/an offer on the table? #mglitchat -9:21 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Floor is open, everyone! Feel free to ask our Pros anything you'd like! (Sorry if I sounded like a hall monitor earlier...) #mglitchat -9:21 PM Mar 21st, 2013


adirondackkids @deborahkovacs We’ve sold 100K copies in our self-pub (NOT P.O.D.) MG series. What might we think about to get to next level? #mglitchat 1/2 -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @dianezahler I did in the case of Fellowship. It was not easy. But my agent agreed. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone Hello, peeps! #mglitchat I see we're talkin' about editors/agents? -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


adirondackkids @deborahkovacs Been told we R swallows & amazons this side of the pond.#mglitchat 2/2 -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @CAnneFrye CAVENDISH required, I would say, fairly minor revisions. I'd say it primarily needed clarification throughout. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss @ZareenJaffery Meaning..Re: Author/Editor/Agent: Make sure you like each other's work. So many accept because eager to publish. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Jess_Keating RT @deborahkovacs: A paraphrase of Gary Paulsen: Read like your are a starving animal and the book is your food. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


zumba1300 RT @clairelegrand: and, something to keep in mind: all the big trendsetters (think HUNGER GAMES) were not written to fit a trend. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson@dianezahler and we were so lucky that Kevin was patient and we ended up working together. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @dianezahler yes, I think I would have walked away if I hadn't had that feeling (of course, that's easy for me to say now). #mglitchat -9:23 PM Mar 21st, 2013


laurenspieller Everyone should check in on #mglitchat. The advice is great for writers, regardless of what they write or who they write for. -9:23 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Jess_Keating #mglitchat folks! Industry pros @deborahkovacs @kcemerson @clairelegrand @ZareenJaffery are hitting the stage tonight! Come join us :D -9:23 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @dianezahler because it would be akin to staying in a relationship that just wasn't right. why would you do that to your book? #mglitchat -9:24 PM Mar 21st, 2013


rachelnseigel RT @laurenspieller: Everyone should check in on #mglitchat. The advice is great for writers, regardless of what they write or who they write for. -9:24 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Jess_Keating RT @laurenspieller: Everyone should check in on #mglitchat. The advice is great for writers, regardless of what they write or who they write for. -9:24 PM Mar 21st, 2013


laurenmagaziner RT @clairelegrand: I think the important thing to look for when seeking agents/editors is a true spirit of collaboration. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @clairelegrand But I think you probably also have to have that zing to understand when a partnership doesn't have it, right? #mglitchat -9:24 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @dianezahler I can't speak for Claire, but this has happened in my experience! I made an offer on a book 1/2 #mglitchat -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


adirondackkids RT @Jess_Keating: #mglitchat folks! Industry pros @deborahkovacs @kcemerson @clairelegrand @ZareenJaffery are hitting the stage tonight! Come join us :D -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Jess_Keating RT @ZareenJaffery: Agents and editors have a say in your writing, so make sure you like their influence #mglitchat -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis you mean, you need to have experienced the sense of rightness previously in order to recognize it? #mglitchat -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kdubaygillis @clairelegrand but that comes back to trusting your subconscious. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery Hi, Zareen. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AndreaL_Mack RT @laurenspieller: Everyone should check in on #mglitchat. The advice is great for writers, regardless of what they write... -9:25 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis if that's what you mean, I'd say no. your gut is smart enough, if you listen to it, to know simply by instinct. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @dianezahler that I felt needed a lot of work. When the author and I spoke, she didn't agree. She walked away. I was relieved! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @matt_janacone Hello! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @clairelegrand Exactly! Like love at first sight/soulmatey thing. Not everyone would know that w/o experiencing it. Lucky you! #mglitchat -9:26 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @deborahkovacs @kdubaygillis yes, exactly. your subconscious knows, even if you don't. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @clairelegrand but that takes a LOT of courage. And trust in yourself. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis I WAS lucky. other editors I spoke w/were great, but w/ @ZareenJaffery it was all Sleepless in Seattle: "magic" :) #mglitchat -9:27 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ilana Hey, Ilana, have you joined #mglitchat tonight? -9:27 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @clairelegrand Maybe I ignore my subconscious....bad #mglitchat -9:28 PM Mar 21st, 2013


PBWorkshop RT @laurenspieller: Everyone should check in on #mglitchat. The advice is great for writers, regardless of what they write... #mglitchat -9:28 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @deborahkovacs yes, absolutely. courage, self-trust, self-awareness, and PRACTICE; it's hard to *really* listen to yourself. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery Nice to meet you. #mglitchat Are we talking about agents/editors tonight? -9:28 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kdubaygills Not "bad" just "interesting." Food for thought. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Mar 21st, 2013


SafiyyahKathimi @ZareenJaffery @deborahkovacs Are there any subjects/ styles you're looking for, a void in the market that you see? #mglitchat -9:29 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @clairelegrand I was full of anxiety during that auction!! I was so happy I "won" :) #mglitchat -9:29 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand but even with people you trust (like @ZareenJaffery for me), it's essential to feel like you can speak up. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Question for all pros...insights about editorial letter process? @clairelegrand, feel free to whip out unicorn drawings here #mglitchat -9:29 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @matt_janacone middle grade literature, and publishing tips! #mglitchat -9:29 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @safiyyahkathimi we are looking for middle grade fiction that is fresh, unexpected, well-crafted, with heart #mglitchat -9:30 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand otherwise, your collaboration is disingenuous and won't produce a story that is True. it's a give and take. a push and pull. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Mar 21st, 2013


EMentior @clairelegrand I'm editing, but dropping into say @ZareenJaffery has that effect on people. ;) #mglitchat @KDuBayGillis -9:30 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @SafiyyahKathimi My personal tastes runs towards darker stories (ahem, CAVENDISH @clairelegrand). #mglitchat -9:31 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand oh gosh editorial letters . . . here's a blog post UNICORN and I wrote on the topic: http://t.co/WPihPDNeKr #mglitchat -9:31 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss @clairelegrand And if you can't hear own voice, I wonder how you can hear your characters' voices. It's good to be introspective. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery How often do mg novels get adapted into scripts? #mglitchat -9:31 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @SafiyyahKathimi I love unlikely friendships, vivid settings, characters that are complicated #mglitchat -9:31 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @EMentior Hi, Emma! :) #mglitchat -9:32 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Editorial Letter: Those are special days. I freak out when I see them in the inbox. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @clairelegrand This is how I knew you'd be PERFECT for tonight's chat. Hilarious. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand I mean if you look at the post I just tweeted...revising a book can be TRAUMATIC. it's a good thing you trust your editor, huh? #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery It occurs to me that if author/editor collaborations are like relationships, my work life is Big Love @clairelegrand @ementior ;) #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand RT @kcemerson Editorial Letter: Those are special days. I freak out when I see them in the inbox. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AdriannRanta RT @ZareenJaffery: Agents and editors have a say in your writing, so make sure you like their influence #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


SafiyyahKathimi @WriterRoss @clairelegrand Wow. Profound and well said. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


EMentior @ZareenJaffery @clairelegrand Claire and I are total sister wives. :D #mglitchat -9:33 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery I have a script based on a mg novel which I wrote - don't know when to try to publish it as a book. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone It's not that often. The process is arduous. As a writer, you do a lot of sitting around waiting on Hollywood. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand .@ZareenJaffery writes THE BEST editorial letters. she is super thorough and asks incredible probing questions. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery Writing editorial letters is nerve-wracking for an editor, too! But @clairelegrand is a revision wizard. I bow down to her. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand after I skim through her letter (usually focusing on just the good points at first, heh), I eat much chocolate. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone Book first I think, unless you have a film agent. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


EMentior @ZareenJaffery Hi! I'm not really here! ;) But everyone, listen to the fantastic advice from Zareen and @clairelegrand. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand then I read through again, making some notes about questions I have/solutions I may have already thought of. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand then we usually have a phone call during which we talk about ways to fix certain things, throw out ideas, act as sounding boards. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @matt_janacone Do you mean is it better to option the script first? #mglitchat -9:35 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @clairelegrand Funny. I only notice the bad points first. After a couple days, I come around to the positive. ;) #mglitchat -9:35 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson Hi, Kevin. Yes, I know. I'm a screenwriter. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Mar 21st, 2013


SafiyyahKathimi @ZareenJaffery @deborahkovacs Thanks for answering our Qs! Your answers are very Zen: vague-not-vague #mglitchat -9:36 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand then I go through and answer each of @ZareenJaffery's questions one by one. the letter ends up looking like a minefield. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Mar 21st, 2013


adirondackkids @ZareenJaffery Would you consider Beverly Cleary's characters complicated, or friendships unlikely? She still seems to resonate #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @kcemerson oh I notice them, as these terrible sinkholes in my gut. but I just pretend not to and cling to the positives, haha ;) #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS @kcemerson @clairelegrand That's me, too. And the eating chocolate... #MGLitChat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery Yes, or, sell the novel first? #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @matt_janacone It can work both ways... But in my experience the book usually comes first. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand and here is another place where @ZareenJaffery's greatness shines: her editorial letters are thorough but #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson @clairelegrand it's a *process* bridging your imagination and editor's thoughts-why right partnership so important #mglitchat -9:37 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk RT @deborahkovacs: it's a *process* bridging your imagination and editor's thoughts-why right partnership so important #mglitchat -9:38 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand never unkind. instead of saying, "Ummm honey no" she asks, "Why is this happening this way?" clarification, not evisceration #mglitchat -9:38 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @adirondackkids I loved Beverly Cleary as a kid! But I don't know that I'd be the right editor for her books... #mglitchat -9:38 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson I've been writing them for the last several years - 13 of them. Mostly romantic comedies/dramas. Hollywood's a racket! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS Come on, you guys- nalitchat is trending, but we're not??? Type more! #MGLitChat -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


novelsounds @clairelegrand aww! best. I'm not a writer but it's so interesting/insightful to see your process through #mglitchat. -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson A good editorial letter doesn't just tell me what isn't working, but offers some thinking about why and what might be done. 1/2 #mglitchat -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Then it's in my court to get specific. 2/2 #mglitchat -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk @Bec_AS those new adults.... we need more chocolate ... and cookies. #MGLitChat -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery Ty, Zareen. That's what I thought, but I'm better writing scripts than I am writing novel. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Mar 21st, 2013


VLeeMahoney RT @deborahkovacs: @safiyyahkathimi we are looking for middle grade fiction that is fresh, unexpected, well-crafted, with heart #mglitchat -9:40 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @Bec_AS @clairelegrand There must be the having of the chocolate. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss @deborahkovacs So perhaps agents help build that bridge, ie agents help separate creative and financial bond with your authors? #mglitchat -9:40 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson it's *always* in the author's court. It's the author's book. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery I'm much more of a 'visual' writer. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand this is something everyone should look for in agents/CPs/editors: the ability to imagine together thoughtfully, supportively #mglitchat -9:41 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS Or maybe move on to wine. RT @AnshaKotyk: those new adults.... we need more chocolate ... and cookies. #MGLitChat -9:41 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @kcemerson @Bec_AS the chocolate is our friennnnd preciousssss <3 #mglitchat -9:41 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @writerross the right agent can create the right match with author/editor. agent also crucial mentor/advisor in career arc. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand and yes to everything @kcemerson and @deborahkovacs are saying: it's ultimately the author's book, the author's responsibility. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson I spent a lot of time afraid to just pick up the phone and call my editor. But I've found it's the way to go. To spitball stuff. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand it's the editor's responsibility to be a guide, to help the author find the right path and be there for them when they get back #mglitchat -9:42 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery This, exactly. RT @clairelegrand: its the editors responsibility to be a guide, to help the author find the right path #mglitchat -9:43 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson that leads me to another of my bits of pithy zen wisdom, this from madeleine l'engle: FEAR NOT. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand MT @kcemerson I spent a lot of time afraid to just pick up the phone and call my editor. But I've found it's the way to go. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson Your agent is the better person to talk to about positioning, the market, and yes, rights and financial opportunities. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand second what @kcemerson just said: your editor (or agent, or CP) should not be someone you're afraid to ask for help #mglitchat -9:44 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss @deborahkovacs ..which is why I love conferences, oppty to meet editors & get to know them; not every author/editor make a match. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand this isn't just a business partnership here; you're creating a book. that's a soul made out of words. trust/kindness = essential #mglitchat -9:44 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson MT @clairelegrand: its the editors responsibility to help the author find the right path and be there for them when they get back #mglitchat -9:45 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery MT @kcemerson: Your agent is the person to talk to about positioning, the market, and yes, rights and financial opportunities. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @WriterRoss Exactly. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand obviously every author/editor relationship is different. you have to find what works for you. but trust, always, must be there #mglitchat -9:46 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @ZareenJaffery Should newbie authors try to get published with small presses? #mglitchat -9:46 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen When I get an ed.l letter, I think: "well, if I could have done it that way, I would have. But I can't." Eventually, tho, I can. #mglitchat -9:46 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @clairelegrand you are smart. #mglitchat -9:46 PM Mar 21st, 2013


WriterRoss And I suspect editors/agents want to like us as much as they like our writing if vision is long-term team work. {} #mglitchat -9:46 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS MT @clairelegrand: obviously every author/editor relationship is different. you have to find what work but trust must be there #MGLitChat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen Reading tonight's talk just makes me want to hug my agent. #mglitchat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @storyqueen I think hardest thing for any author is to take crucial step away from the work to hear the input. Again, trust= key. #mglitchat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand RT @WriterRoss And I suspect editors/agents want to like us as much as they like our writing if vision is long-term team work. #mglitchat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @matt_janacone Sure! There are many paths to publication. It's about finding the place that suits your work #mglitchat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone The path I took was to try for the majors, and then keep trying for the majors. It worked after a few manuscripts #mglitchat -9:47 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand that last RT is a great point: be mindful of what kind of relationship you want. is this long term? is this for a single project? #mglitchat -9:48 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @WriterRoss friendship/fellowship/mutual understanding extremely crucial parts of the mix. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand if you are going to be with an editor (or again agent/CP) for not just a single project but long term, consider that carefully #mglitchat -9:48 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand this isn't just a fling; it's a RELATIONSHIP. is this a person who will stick up for you and your stories through thick and thin? #mglitchat -9:48 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson So, you were just interested in selling your work? #mglitchat -9:49 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @clairelegrand who will stand up and carry your torch, in house and into the world! #mglitchat -9:49 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand these kinds of relationships should transcend the strictly mercenary. it's about selling books and making money, sure #mglitchat -9:49 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen @deborahkovacs A little time to ponder is never a bad thing:). It is amazing how the impossible seems possible after 48 hours. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS How many? MT @kcemerson The path I took was to try for the majors, and then keep trying. It worked after a few manuscripts #MGLitChat -9:50 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone I had a ms I thought was ready and worthy. I believed in it. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @story_queen a good friend of mine says it takes three days to get over an editorial letter. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand but more than that, it's about creating something worth remembering. if you lose sight of that, you lose the specialness of Story #mglitchat -9:50 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson That's good that you believe your work is good enough for the majors. I always aim high, too. Why not? #mglitchat -9:50 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis @kcemerson @clairelegrand What phrase/advice has @ZareenJaffery @deborahkovacs given you that's been inspirational to your work? #mglitchat -9:51 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @Bec_AS I sold the third manuscript I wrote. The other two seemed ready, but now I know they were practice. That said... 1/2 #mglitchat -9:51 PM Mar 21st, 2013


SafiyyahKathimi @ZareenJaffery @deborahkovacs How important is social media platform/presence in MG (relative to, say, YA)? Thanks@ #mglitchat -9:51 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis ooo great question! ummm everything she's ever said? #mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @Bec_AS But the process of getting them out there was also good practice. 2/2 #mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson Yes, you definitetly have to believe in it. #mglitchat I never write anything that doesn't excite me. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


DrRattlesnake @ZareenJaffery For those manuscripts you receive from an agent not well known to you, how long does it take you to read slush? #mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis no but seriously: one time when I still lived in NYC I stopped by S&S to drop something off and Zareen had #mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen @deborahkovacs Ah, maybe 72 hours then. Depends, I suppose, on how much chocolate is consumed....#mglitchat -9:52 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @SafiyyahKathimi v.important to be presence in community of stakeholders--key bloggers, librarians, authors. w/kids not so much #mglitchat -9:53 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @story_queen chocolate ratio is key. upping it can shorten the duration of the "pain" "confusion" or "befuddlement" #mglitchat -9:53 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AndreaL_Mack RT @clairelegrand: it's about creating something worth remembering. if you lose sight of that, you lose the specialness of Story #mglitchat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis (I think) just finished reading the second draft of THE YEAR OF SHADOWS (after my first major round of revisions) #mglitchat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @KDuBayGillis One of the first things @deborahkovacs said was that she could tell I truly cared about the characters. She had me! #mglitchat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis and she looked up at me from her desk and had this serene, utterly sincere expression on her face #mglitchat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS @story_queen @deborahkovacs Go for quality over quantity. Smooth, dark truffles, for example. It will work faster. #MGLitChat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis and she said, "You know you have something really special here, right?" and I wanted to cry. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @kcemerson and you had me from the first words I read of yours! #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @AndreaL_Mack And about bearing your heart on the page. If it's there, people will remember. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen @deborahkovacs I don't think there is enough chocolate in the world to cure my "befuddlement." (Great word, by the way.) #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @Bec_AS aah. Density=profundity=rebound power. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @KDuBayGillis A recent favorite is “Style without story is an empty suit.” from Alexander Chee's writing tips #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


SafiyyahKathimi @deborahkovacs Ah. So your presence/content should be adult-oriented? #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery http://t.co/pe7uE2cLb1 #mglitchat -9:55 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @story_queen as I said earlier, "omit unnecessary words." but by all means "include necessary words." #mglitchat -9:56 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @KDuBayGillis because I agreed. I felt it & knew she felt it too. it was a moment when I was so grateful for her & so encouraged #mglitchat -9:56 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone If you're not excited about what you write, it will show. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Mar 21st, 2013


story_queen @Bec_AS @deborahkovacs Now I wish someone would send me an intense ed. letter so I'd have an excuse to eat chocolate. #notreally #mglitchat -9:56 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @SafiyyahKathimi Social media presence is useful, but only if it comes naturally to an author. If it's forced, it's just awkward #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @SafiyyahKathimi yes, as you need to communicate with the "stakeholders" to get your mg work into the hands of readers #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand another great thing about @ZareenJaffery: she pushes me. hard. kindly, but hard. your editor should always challenge you. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @story_queen lol #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand @story_queen wait. we need an excuse to eat chocolate?? #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone @kcemerson Indeed - and people will get excited about it! #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ManjuBeth @deborahkovacs I appreciate tonight's #mglitchat -9:57 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @SafiyyahKathimi It's most useful as a networking (and really, friend-making!) tool, a way to reach out to bloggers, librarians #mglitchat -9:58 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @ManjuBeth we're glad you could join us. #mglitchat -9:58 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @DrRattlesnake It depends! I focus my attention on my contracted authors, so my submission pile can get frighteningly tall. #mglitchat -9:58 PM Mar 21st, 2013


clairelegrand so to sum up: be true to yourself and your stories. look for trust, challenge, and collaborative spirit in your editors. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


ZareenJaffery @DrRattlesnake I aim for a couple weeks, but will admit sometimes it's a couple months #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


matt_janacone Nice chatttin' with everyone tonight. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @ZareenJaffery agree that reaching out to bloggers good friendmaking tool. Amazing and supportive community. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


KDuBayGillis Hugs to our Pros. Such amazing author/editor relationships! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AndreaL_Mack @kcemerson Yes, that's what makes writing so hard and so rewarding. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


AnshaKotyk A great big THANK YOU to our pros for sharing with us tonight. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Mar 21st, 2013


kcemerson @matt_janacone You too! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


Bec_AS Thank you to tonight's Rock Star Guests! We love to have guests like you. :) I must shove off and get back to writing. #MGLitChat -10:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013


deborahkovacs @ZareenJaffery Agree about bloggers--they are friends to us all and are key to this community. #mglitchat -10:00 PM Mar 21st, 2013

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