Dream Job
Why I Chose to Self-Publish
So just why did I choose to self-publish my picture book, Dream Job?
Over the years I have taken many writing courses, through local colleges, writer's groups and several at The Highlights Foundation. I have also attended many writing seminars, including those offered through the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Guideposts Magazine. Each time I come away with new insights.
One of the most surprising things I learned is that when an author sells a picture book manuscript, that manuscript is then placed in the hands of an illustrator, and the writer and illustrator do not communicate or share ideas.
Aside from possibly a few illustration notes from the author, it is solely up to that assigned illustrator as to how the story will be depicted.
After spending so much time and effort on my story, my main character, Angie, had taken on a life of her own, and I couldn’t imagine how disappointed I might be if she were depicted in a way I didn’t like. That seemed almost tragic to me. So I decided to find my own illustrator. I wasn’t looking to become a famous author, as this was all purely a work of heart for me. I simply felt a very strong need to complete this project and create a book I could be proud of.
Aside from possibly a few illustration notes from the author, it is solely up to that assigned illustrator as to how the story will be depicted.
After spending so much time and effort on my story, my main character, Angie, had taken on a life of her own, and I couldn’t imagine how disappointed I might be if she were depicted in a way I didn’t like. That seemed almost tragic to me. So I decided to find my own illustrator. I wasn’t looking to become a famous author, as this was all purely a work of heart for me. I simply felt a very strong need to complete this project and create a book I could be proud of.
So that’s just what I did!
ac
DREAM
JOB
About Me:
Melissa Sharpe Gould
~Sharpe is my actual middle name (spelled Sharp on our familiy's genealogy chart).
~I was born and raised in Huntington, New York...and still live here with my husband, Tom.
~ I am the mother of two: Maren and Zane
...and the grandmother of four amazing grandchildren: Matilda, Felix, Griffin and Lincoln.
~I love all of the same things Angie the Angel loves, but unlike Angie, I am a pretty good baker!
You can see more about that in my blog Ibaketoplease.blogspot.com
~I have a Master's Degree in Special Education and by day, I help young children learn how to learn
...At night I can be found at my sewing machine creating Hugz from Heaven blankets and pillows created from Loved Ones' clothing.
For more information go to www.HugzfromHeaven.com
~I am also certified as a Grief Counselor and as a Grief Recovery Method Specialist
...Like my character Angie, I get the most pleasure out of helping others.
About Me:
~Sharpe is my actual middle name (spelled Sharp on our familiy's genealogy chart).
