Picture Book Prompt 6

“My ideas usually come not at my desk writing but in the midst of living.” —Anaïs Nin

You need a way to capture your ideas before they disappear.

Like dreams, it might seem as though you’ll never forget your ideas. But you will.

A notebook is a great way of doing this, but you also need a list. A simple list that you can scan when you’re looking for inspiration, a place where all possibilities hang out together.

Keep a list of all your picture-book ideas.  Either in a document on your computer or a notebook.

When you’re stuck, or not sure what to write about, pull up your list and pick an idea that appeals to you. These are seeds.  Water them by writing a draft.

Start now by making a list of all the ideas you have—or have had—for picture books.

Just a list.  You’re not developing them. You’re just jotting down a sentence or two. Enough to remind yourself of what they are—along with the date on which you had the idea.

Add to the list when you have a new idea.