Members Present: Bernardo,
Jackie, Joan, Luneil, Pam
Guest: Suzy Stueben
Jackie
met Suzy at a Write-on Hoosiers meeting last month. Suzy worked at Purdue University for
15 years as an instructional designer offering computer networking support.
Since retiring, Suzy has more time to devote to her stories for children.
Members discussed the updated recipe list and age of target
audience. We decided to target children up to age ten. Suzy is interested in help with Illustrator. Jackie and Pam would
like more instruction on graphics in general. The group discussed Judy's success in illustrating her own
poems and short stories. A few examples of Judy's computer art were passed
around.
Joan read Elbows and Peas and the related recipe
for Peas and Parmesan Crostini.
Luneil is working
on another Lottie Nora story. This time Lottie Nora's adventure takes place at her
grandpa's farm. Luneil will submit it to Lee and Low Publishers within the next
month.
Pam brought in
another poem for her Stuffed Hotdogs recipe but she likes the original poem she
shared last month better. She informed us that cookbook companies offer
measurements and tips as an option when developing the layout of the book.
Jackie said Judy had brought this up as well. The group decided we need kid
friendly pictures of ingredients (eggs, butter, milk, etc.), supplies (measuring cups, bowls, etc.), and
actions (mix, stir, bake) incorporated in our book. Lorraine had demonstrated
this idea earlier in the project when she passed out her recipe for Rhubarb-Oatmeal Bars complete with steps and
clip art pictures.
Pam is still working on her self-help guides. Sharon had suggested she send it out to 30
publishers before she considers self publishing. Pam has since removed all the
formatting for the version she plans to send in.
Pam is also still producing weekly newsletters for her
church and posted a link to her column on her
Facebook. The group discussed the
benefits of "liking" and "sharing links" on each other's page.
Bernardo shared a
poem he wrote about the love of his life - his wife Pam. He then continued the
chapter on Stone Castle. He believes his book will be best suited for children
ages six to ten. Members were pleased to
learn Bernardo is proficient in Exact Sign Language. The group enjoyed listening
and watching him as he communicated songs and his experiences with his hands.
Jackie reminded
the group to check the monthly meeting highlights on blogspot and send
materials for the MHW Facebook page.
Next meeting is scheduled for July 11, 2013
