I’m not typically one for online challenges. I mean, who needs one more “thing to do,” right? Especially with a deadline! BUT…when the challenge has been both exceptional and irresistible, I’ve succumbed 🤭. In 2014 I couldn’t hold back any longer from joining in on the always-popular, ever-growing “baby” birthed by super-talented author, Tara Lazar.

Having wanted to create a space for picture book writers that mirrored the November NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) annual “movement,” waaaay back in 2009 Tara initiated PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month): 30 picture book ideas 💡 in 30 days. This challenge literally took the KidLit picture book-writing community by storm ⚡ and eventually morphed into what is now known as Storystorm, having shifted to January (thank you very much, Tara!) and expanded to include writers of all formats, not just picture books 😁👌🖋📚🎨🥰

Not only has this challenge pushed writers to brainstorm, but a lot of these idea “seeds” grew into manuscripts that ultimately flowered as published books! 🤞 A worthy goal, but the part of this annual activity that’s priceless — aside from the community fun and support — is the wealth of info generously offered. On every “idea day” you find a post written by an author, illustrator, editor, agent or any knowledgeable industry professional who generously offers their wisdom, encouragement and prizes 🎁🎀🏆 that are not to be believed! The entire archive is available, serving as an invaluable writer’s and illustrator’s resource without comparison 🤗😎🌟.

OK, so I happen to be a total chart nerd — shocking, I know! 😮😁😉— and occasionally offer docs for download. Of course I’ve made a chart for Storystorm which I’m including here for you in case you, too, find it useful. You just need to change the date each year:

So, once again, I am a very proud participant in Tara’s Storystorm.; it’s become a no-brainer for me — a winning endeavor on every level! For anyone interested, this year’s registration (always FREE!) is open till Jan. 7, 2020.

Good luck, to all my fellow Storystormers…let the “Word Whirlwind” begin! 😀