This past Saturday I attended the Houston SCBWI Conference.
I always go. And it’s always great.
The first thing I noted when I arrived...my name was
spelled correctly on my name tag! That’s a good sign. It rarely happens.
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| Logo by Diandra Mae |
One thing I’ve noticed about agents and editors…they keep getting younger and younger. Nope, I’m not getting old, they’re definitely
getting younger. But along with youth comes energy. Who doesn’t want that
in an agent and editor?
I did something super smart when I registered. I paid for
two professional critiques. One from an agent, one from an editor. Both gave amazing
feedback. And the agent praised what she’d read and asked for the full
manuscript. Yes! I need an agent, and she’s the agent I’d love to represent me.
What I like best about these conferences, is spending the
day with good friends and likeminded people. It’s therapy. But you already know
that.
When the day wound down, I was in for another surprise. My
work was nominated for the Joan Lowery Nixon Award. The winner is mentored by
the lovely Kathi Appelt, who graciously took over when Joan passed away in
2003. To say I was honored, major understatement. But today, I made the decision to withdraw my
nomination. This is an award that
should go to a less published author.
So we topped off the day with a Mexican buffet, after which
I came home and crashed.
By the way, if you’re one of the coordinators who slaved so I could have
a great day…thanks for everything! Including spelling my name right.
I'd love to know your thoughts on conferences. The comment section is waiting.
