See something? Say something.
Taking a step in being vocal.
I’ve been open this year about the young adult novels I’ve written and the early reader graphic novel pitch package I’ve developed, but I haven’t talked about picture books.
That’s because I haven’t written a picture book in awhile.
I’m not sure why, exactly, my creative well in that age category was so dry, but I’ve been writing long enough to not question these things. They’re cyclical and always come back.
While I focused on novel writing and graphic novel creation, ideas for nonfiction picture books kept tickling my brain. I had no idea where to start, having only written fiction thus far, so I just left them there in the corner to taunt me from time to time.
Then, seemingly out of nowhere,* I knew what to do with one of them and I wrote a few stanzas one week. Let it sit. And the following week, the day of my critique group, I scribbled out the rest. But I’m not here to talk about that. This is my monthly eco portion of the newsletter, not my writing portion.
*It’s never “out of nowhere.” It’s the product of letting something marinate and simmer and then it comes together.
Our passions often overlap, especially in the arts.
Without going into detail, the picture book I just finished tackles an environmental topic that burns in the core of my heart. And it’s gotten me thinking about what more I can do to make a difference.
Besides writing about it and hoping people will read it, that is.
Protest.
Have you ever been to one? What cause were you protesting? I’ve only participated in one, but we took the whole family and it was powerful. It solidified our convictions, gathering with others who are concerned about our local ecosystem. It also drew attention from news outlets, which further spreads awareness about what’s going on.
Some ideas for participating in a protest:
Follow local social media accounts that are championing the cause you’re passionate about. They often organize or share information about protests happening.
Get on the email list of nonprofit groups working to make things better. Again, they often organize people and send out email invitations for events, like protests.
Start something yourself! Even if you start small, one person has been known to make a difference. That could be you!
I hope your summer is ending with a either a big bang, or a slow fade, whichever you prefer.
Love, Heidi
