Top of the Heap!

Monday's Riddle was a new beginning, and Fairday started 2013 off with a fun review of the classic middle grade book Ellen Tebbits by Beverly Clearly. Friday, Barbara McClintock will be stopping by to tell us a little more about the story behind the lovely children's book she illustrated Leave Your Sleep by Natalie Merchant, and don't forget the Happy New Year 2013 Book Giveaway Hop is happening on Fairday's Blog! Pop by to enter for your chance to win a signed hardcover edition of the spooky, new middle grade novel The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow by J. Haight & S. Robinson.

Today, we thought it would be fun to tell you about our new beginning becoming authors. So...

This week's top of the heap: Starting something new!

Becoming an author- what an adventure to embark upon! We have been hanging out with each other since we were fifteen years old, and books have always been a big part our friendship. Harry Potter was a great influence, and for the last twelve years, we have been putting on a Harry Potter party/ trivia game for Stephanie's fifth grade class. So, when we sat down and decided to write a book, we took the idea seriously, and though we were nervous about it, we were also excited to begin.

It all started on Stephanie's front porch. We sat down and fleshed out the idea for the story. Originally, Jess had written a poem entitled Ruby Begonia and the High-Heeled Sneakers. She had attempted to try to publish for about a year, but to no avail. But, the idea was there, and it was a good one. So, we took the concept and decided to turn it into a middle grade chapter book. Fairday and the DMS popped onto the scene, and the story began to take shape.

Jess & Stephanie with Grace Lin

We collaborated using Google Docs to craft the story. We began to get involved with other authors in our genre, attend book fairs, and participate in writers' conferences. All of this was new, and somewhat scary- however, also fascinating. The more we learned and opened ourselves up to the experience, the more fun we had.

Pile of Manuscripts

The journey of becoming a writer is amazing, and with so many advancements in technology, we are able to meet and network with authors and illustrators all over the world. Our middle grade book has taken on a life of its own, and we continue to grow and change as it evolves. It's been a great experience working as friends on such a fun project.

The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow
J. Haight & S. Robinso

This adventure has no end, but keeps on expanding. It's a marvelously creative outlet, and we have been able to chat with some really amazing authors and bloggers!

So here's to new beginnings!
May the odds be ever in your favor ; ) ~ Jess & Stephanie