Jeanie W: I’m trying to write books that my inner 11 year old wants to read. #kidlitchat

Honestly, I'll stick with listening to the kids, teachers, librarians. If I start listening to the industry, I'm done for. #kidlitchat

TOPIC: The publishing industry changes daily, it seems. What are the most reliable sources for information on the currents and eddies that can affect how you navigate your creative career--publications? professional panels? best-seller lists? #kidlitchat

Kids, teachers, and librarians are my favorite people to listen to when deciding which of my ideas to work on next. (What do they wish they saw on the shelves?) Once a manuscript is complete/polished, I look at recent deals to see which one I should send out into the world. #KidLitChat

Really love that way of looking at it! Less like "what's the trend" and more like "what are folks craving / what gap could I maybe fill" sort of, that's so smart. It's so easy to get caught up in the questions of what will resonate with who and when!! #kidlitchat

It's impossible to follow trends successfully, because by the time it becomes a trend, publishing has moved on (they have to stay ahead since publishing a book takes so long!) But if you pay attention to what the readers crave, you can be ahead of the game. :) #KidLitChat

Bonus points for writing the books that *YOU* want to read! It's helpful since you'll be reading multiple drafts of it #kidlitchat

I have heard this same thing a few times before...write the books you want to read with your kids. Such a good idea! #kidlitchat

I’m trying to write books that my inner 11 year old wants to read. #kidlitchat

I think that's the best way to approach a project--aiming it for your younger self. It guarantees a level of personal commitment and enthusiasm that shines through. #kidlitchat

And if it’s a novel, you’re spending a lot of time with it. You have to love it for a long time. #kidlitchat

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