SCBWI-MI Spring Conference Presenter Debbie Gonzales

El Paso, Barney, Austin TX RA, GIRLS WITH GUTS, teacher's guides, and Pinterest Power: Author Deb Gonzales

Charlie Barshaw coordinates our regular Writer Spotlight feature and interviews writers of SCBWI-MI. In this piece, meet author and Pinterest guru Debbie Gonzales. Deb is also part of the cast of distinguished faculty at the SCBWI-MI spring conference. 

Debbadee. That was your email moniker when I first met you. Nickname?

Debbadee is a nickname that my dad gave me. I love it. My dad was a brilliant man with a wry wit. I knew that when he called me Debbadee, he was pleased with whatever I was doing.

What was life like for young Debbie? Were you born in Texas?

I was born in El Paso, Texas, and spent the first two years of my life there before moving became the norm. My father’s career in avionics engineering kept our family on the go, and by the time I reached the age of fourteen, I had lived in Texas three times, as well as in Oklahoma, Nebraska, Colorado, Iowa, and California. 

Deb and Missy

As an introvert, I had to learn early on how to be outgoing—whether I wanted to or not. My mother, who was no hand-holder (believe me), had a firm philosophy on making friends: “They aren’t going to come to you, Debbie. You have to go to them first.” Words that have served me well throughout my entire life.

You’ve been an educator for over 35 years. What inspired you to make education a career?

I think my desire to become a teacher was sparked by all the moving around I did as a child. The classroom became my emotional haven—a place of stability in a constantly changing world. I loved school. I loved its predictability, its challenges, and—most of all—the supplies! To this day I LOVE office supplies!!!! 

I spent hours playing school, teaching my stuffed animals how to read and write. That early passion for education eventually morphed into an incredible career as an author, educator, and Pinterest marketing specialist. And for that, I am exceedingly grateful.

 

Barney

One of your earliest teaching jobs was on the set of “Barney,” the purple dinosaur. Describe a typical day for the kid actors in your school.

Yes, I was once the Barney School House teacher. Now that was a really fun job. My students’ ages ranged from one first grader, two second graders, a third grade, fourth grade, fifth grade, sixth grade, and seventh grader all of which I served in a one-room Montessori classroom I put together in a room adjacent to the kids’ rehearsal hall decorated with the Barney & Friends full-body costumes were suspended from the ceiling. 

While there, I coordinated educational content around rehearsal, filming, fitting, and publicity scheduling. Our classroom was even featured on the Today Show! How about that! Serving as the Barney School House teacher was one of the most fun teaching experiences I have ever had! A great experience, for sure.

 

You were the Regional Advisor for SCBWI while you lived in Texas. I sense there’s a memoire in it for you. What were some of your most memorable moments while R.A. in Texas?

I remember being nominated for the role of RA and not really knowing much about the expectations required for the job. Because Austin was such a hub for Kidlit at the time, there was much work to be and great fun to be had. 

If I was to identify the events that I was most proud of were our two Digital Storytelling Workshops. The topics we explored back then were Content Marketing, Blogging, Photoshop Tips, E-Books, Illustration 101, Graphic Novels, Crafting Promotional Swag, Social Media Strategies and so much more. I suppose those Digital Storytelling Workshops paved the road for the work that I am doing today.    

 

Deb and John

Tell us about your husband John, who is another marvelous human being. How did you meet?

We met at Richland Junior College in Dallas, Texas, and for a long time, we were just great platonic friends. That all changed on a double date. At the time, we were both dating incredibly possessive people—who were none too happy about how much fun he and I were having together. The rest, as they say, is history.

How did you end up in Michigan?

John’s work transferred us here, and I’m so grateful for the experience of living as a Michigander. This Texan had no idea that not only would Michigan prove to be such a gorgeous state, that her people would be so warm, interesting, and solid. We’ve loved living here! I absolutely love it!

 

You wrote and published a picture book, GIRLS WITH GUTS. How did those gutsy girls get their own book?

GIRLS WITH GUTS: The ROAD TO BREAKING BARRIERS AND BASHING RECORDS began as part of my creative thesis at VCFA. It began as my first attempt at writing a picture book under the guise of some very wise advisors. 

Because I wanted to take full creative license while attending the Vermont College of Fine Arts, my creative thesis consisted of a middle grade novel, a short story, and a picture book – all exploring aspects of the plight of the female athlete. Little did I know that that little picture book would become a reality.

Want some scoop? Charlesbridge has decided to release the book in English in paperback as well as simultaneously make a Spanish edition of titled ¡CHICAS CON AGALLAS! They have them slated for publication for early 2026, which will put them on the same season as the next Winter Olympic Games. Isn’t that great news!

You’re quite the dog lover, aren’t you? Tell us about your pets.

Actually, years ago, I considered myself to be solely a cat person. There have been a number of really sweet kitties in my life, the best of which was Mr. Pibb, a rotund and loving tabby. We first got Mr. Pibb when we lived in California over 30 years ago. He lived to be 23 years old. Mr. Pibb was as devoted to me as I was to him.

Tripod

After Mr. Pibb passed, we adopted Tripod, a three-legged chocolate lab…and what a sweet soul he was.  I hadn’t experienced the richness of dog love until Tripod limped into my life. He had an uncanny way of connecting with people, all kinds of people. He healed my heart in ways I had no idea I needed healing.

And now we have Missy. I believe that Tripod sent Missy to us. Talk about devoted! She’s the perfect office mate and brings so much joy into our life!

 

 

You create teacher’s guides. What kinds of books make good teacher’s guide material?

I’ve been creating teacher guides since around 2018, and at this point, I’ve got more than 400 of them posted on my Guides by Deb website. If you can name a genre, chances are I’ve made a guide for it—board books, picture books, mysteries, STEM-related stories, young adult and middle grade novels galore. Developing this vast collection of academic standards-aligned guides has been both a challenge and a joy, but the best part? Connecting with authors and educators on these incredible projects.

As for what makes a book a great fit for a teacher guide, it really comes down to its ability to connect with its audience. That’s why our Guides by Deb tagline is: “Keeping your books in the hearts of young readers and in the hands of those who care for them.” 

These guides are designed to equip homeschooling parents, teachers, school librarians, school counselors, and caregivers with the resources they need to help kids engage with a book’s themes, educational content, and emotional depth—all while keeping the experience age-appropriate, meaningful, and inspiring.

 

You’re all in on Pinterest now—running an agency, teaching workshops, hosting a newsletter—the whole nine yards! So what’s the deal? I always thought Pinterest was just for recipes and DIY projects. How does it actually help authors, and what makes you so passionate about it?

Actually, it was my intention to promote Guides by Deb and Girls with Guts that first led me to Pinterest. I discovered the platform in 2016, about four years after it became public. Back then, it was a very different place—kind of clunky. Honestly, I was probably a little clunky with it, too. But even then, I could see its potential for our community. Now, almost ten years later, I’m more convinced than ever that authors, illustrators, publishers, and booksellers need a presence on Pinterest. There’s definitely a learning curve but trust me—the trek is worth it!

People often think Pinterest is a social media platform, but it’s not. It’s actually a powerful visual search engine driven by SEO keywords. These keywords come from a deep analysis of the themes and educational content in an author’s books, programs, or services. Pinterest then indexes this information so that when the right audience searches for those key terms, pins showcasing the book, program, or service appear in their feed.

Deb with a tomato

One of the best things about Pinterest is that content doesn’t disappear after a day or two like it does on other platforms. A well-crafted pin can keep working for months—sometimes even years! That means your books, programs, and resources stay discoverable long after you post. I know this to be true. Those clunky pins I posted back in 2018 are still surfacing! Yes!

Even better, Pinterest puts books right in front of the people who need them—teachers looking for classroom resources, parents searching for book recommendations, and librarians curating collections. These audiences aren’t just scrolling; they’re searching with purpose. And when your content shows up at the right moment, it creates real connections. Boom!

 

What are you presenting at the conference?

My topic is Beyond the Launch: Harnessing the Evergreen Marketing Power of Pinterest.

There’s so much I want to share in my conference presentation—I’ll have to rein in my excitement a bit to make sure we cover the essentials without overwhelming everyone! My goal is to inspire participants—whether they’re pre-published or bestselling authors—by showing them that Pinterest isn’t just for recipes and DIY projects. It’s a powerful search engine that helps authors and illustrators connect with their ideal audience.

We’ll break down the basics of building a strong, evergreen presence, explore the differences between personal and business accounts, and dive into actionable strategies to boost book visibility and engagement. Whether you’re brand new to Pinterest or looking to refine your approach, you’ll leave with the tools and confidence to make Pinterest work for you.

 

What’s next for Debbie?

Well, besides serving my oh-so-awesome Pin Lit clients and keeping up with all the latest Pinterest updates, I’m diving into two exciting projects. The first is a how-to book all about Pinterest and the Kidlit community. I’ve learned so much about the possibilities this platform holds for us, and I feel compelled to share it. I’m still figuring out exactly what shape the book will take, but for now, the goal is just to get it out of my brain and onto the page. You know how it goes, right?

Also, I'm completely captivated by ChatGPT—so much so that I’m developing a new AI tool called The Pin Lit Author Bot. Designed specifically to enhance Pinterest platform management, this custom-built tool is currently in its early development phase. My goal is to have it ready to launch by the conference, and I can’t wait to share more about it then.

__________________________________________________________________________

Thanks so much for the opportunity to share a little bit about my journey and the work I love. I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to connect at the conference! See you soon!

Please share any social media platforms:

·         Pinterest: @debbadee5

·         Instagram: _debgonzales

·         LinkedIn: @debbie-gonzales-gbd/

·         Website: www.pinlitmarketing.com

·         Email: debbadee5@gmail.com

 

 

Three Reasons To Volunteer for the MRA Annual Conference: March 17 - 20

Did you know that volunteering for an event such as the Michigan Reading Association's Annual Conference, being held at the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids could be one of the best investments in your publishing career? Well, it’s true. Whether you're pre-published or have a bazillion books under your belt, participating in an event such as this can have a long-term positive impact on your marketing efforts. Let me tell you why.

• Your Target Audience: The term “target audience” is a marketing term referencing the people that are most likely to be interested in a product or service – your books! The MRA membership is composed of teachers and librarians from all over the great State of Michigan. Friends, these lovely people are your target audience! They’re gatekeepers! And, by participating in the event in a genuine and authentically helpful way, these educators will have an opportunity to get to know you, whether you are pre-published or not.

  

• 
  Relationship Marketing: Publishing guru Tim Grahl has revised the definition of marketing as being, “The act of building long-lasting connections with people.” Oftentimes, these long-lasting connections develop into relationships, friendships that develop over a space of time. Tim says, “The more long-lasting connections you make with readers, the more books you will sell in a natural manner that reflects genuine connection rather than shady salesmanship” (YOUR FIRST 1000 COPIES, pg. 9). And how will you initiate such long-lasting connections? By volunteering at the MRA conference. That’s how.

• Community Building: The word “community” is defined as a feeling of fellowship with others through the sharing of common attitudes, interest, and goals. The MRA believes that literacy is essential to success in life and that freedom to read is essential to our democracy. They are dedicated to making a difference in students’ lives by offering ongoing, sustainable professional development to the educators in Michigan.  Well, I share those common attitudes, interests, and goals. Don’t you? The good folks at the Michigan Reading Association are my kind of people. I’ll bet they’re yours, also.

If you are in the Grand Rapids area and desire to engage in a community building relationship marketing opportunity with your target audience, join me at the MRA Annual Conference being held at the Devos Center from Friday, March 17 to Monday, March 20. They need our help to make the event a grand success. Let’s be there for them.

If you’re interested, shoot me a note at debbadee5@gmail.com.  There is no cost to participate and the benefits are insurmountable!

Hope to see you in Grand Rapids!

Children's author, career educator & Pinterest marketing specialist, Debbie Gonzales is the founder of Pin Lit Marketing, a boutique Pinterest marketing agency for book sellers & creators. Deb is the author of a collection of early readers and the nonfiction picture book GIRLS WITH GUTS: THE ROAD TO BREAKING BARRIERS AND BASHING RECORDS. She’s the host & creator of Guides by Deb, a website consisting of over 300 standards-aligned educator guides for all genres. Learn more about Deb at debbiegonzales.com or guidesbydeb.com.

Your Author Website: Make a Dynamic, Yet Personable, Connection by Debbie Gonzales

Debbie Gonzales has been keeping us updated on all things Pinterest, and we invited her back to share additional tips for marketing and promoting our books. How do you draw readers to your website and keep them there? Here's Debbie:

Pinterest Marketing Basics: Keep It Simple, Authentic & Fun

By Debbie Gonzales

 

I firmly believe that all book creators would benefit by establishing a visibility platform on Pinterest, this goes for pre-published authors and illustrators, as well. Not only is the process in establishing a viable platform highly effective as a marketing tool, Pinterest shines an authentic light on who we are and what we embrace as creatives. This reflection is digitally achieved by intentional connections between one’s Pinterest platform and their website. 

Here’s how the magic happens.

Pinterest is a tool to amplify a message of service, inspiration, and encouragement for our audience. It’s a visual search engine on which parents, teachers, librarians, millennials, and teens use to find answers, products, and inspiration. Gone are the days when we had the luxury of chatting up a potential buyer at a bookstore or festival. The reality is that purchasing relationships are developed digitally. Our challenge is to first understand how our services and books meet their needs, then establish a pathway for them to land in an intriguing place where they are compelled by a desire to want more than a one-off purchase. We want to make a dynamic, yet personable, connection through our websites. Tall order, yet relatively easy to do.

Too often we focus on embellishing our websites rather than focusing on their functionality and purpose. Slow-loading websites adorned with gizmos dancing across the screen have lost their appeal. Pinterest users want what they want when they want it: 

• If the website seems buggy or confusing, they’ll bounce. 
• Conversely, if they land on captivating content they can connect with, chances are they’ll poke around the website with curiosity. 
• Better yet, they find the content living on the site to be so intriguing, they bookmark it! Bingo! The first steps toward a happy digital relationship have been established!

Here's an example:

Award-winning author Barb Rosenstock not only knows how to write award-winning picture book biographies, she’s savvy regarding how to maximize her web presence to assist in marketing her books and programming. Her website layout is one to consider, for sure. 

• The website is packed with practical content to benefit teachers and librarians, while being organized in a clear and succinct manner. 
• It’s attractive, loads easily, and is extremely user-friendly. 
• Though not glitzy, Barb’s website is a shining example of inspiration, education, and of service to those who have the good fortune to land on it. 

Much like the revision process, refining our marketing message takes time, especially if we seek to establish something that is genuinely authentic. Our audience is looking for books that resonate with young readers. Take your time to become acquainted with those you desire to market to. Discover the type of content that appeals to them, then experiment with formatting that messaging on your website. The best news is that Pinterest is a long game. It’s a slow burn, which allows plenty of time to thoughtfully establish marketing strategies that edify one’s audience. Most importantly, have fun while doing so! 

 

Debbie Gonzales is an author, educator, and a Pinterest Marketing specialist. She’s the host of Guides by Deb, a website consisting of over 300 standards-aligned educator guides for all genres. If you’re interested in learning more about Pinterest marketing, reach out to Deb. She loves talking about all things Pinterest! 

Did you miss Deb's other posts? Catch up or revisit them below:

What's the Buzz about Pinterest?

https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2020/11/whats-with-buzz-about-pinterest-by.html

Painless Self-Promotion: Confidence

https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/12/painless-self-promotion-confidence-by.html

Painless Self Promotion: Creating Content

https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/11/painless-self-promotion-creating.html

Michigan KidLit Advocate: Debbie Gonzales, Creating and Utilizing Book Guides

https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2017/06/michigan-kidlit-advocate-debbie.html

Coming up on The Mitten Blog:

Equity & Inclusion Corner, Book Birthdays, Writer Spotlights, Ask the Editor, and more!

The Mitten Blog is looking for a new editor! Learn more here, and email current editor Kristin Lenz with any questions.

What’s With the Buzz about Pinterest? By Debbie Gonzales

Pinterest is so, so, SO much more than a quick reference for great recipes or DIY projects. The marketing potential on this dynamic platform is phenomenal! Studies show that Pinterest is the largest website traffic driver in the world. Thoughtfully crafted content has the potential of becoming 80% more viral than on any other social media platform. When it comes to Twitter, Pinterest is 3 times more effective in establishing connections and building relationships. Yet, currently, the Kidlit industry lacks a vibrant representation on the platform. We need to change that. I am eager to show you how. 

To raise visibility on Pinterest, a marketer must nurture three variables – content, consistency, and community.  Like a sturdy three-legged stool, each element supports the other. Fresh, relative, audience-centric content is the foundation of a successful platform – authentic messaging that is unique to your brand and intriguing to your audience. Pinterest users come to the platform looking for something specific in mind. Because of this, literary pinners must shift focus from impressing and entertaining their readers to discovering ways to solve a problem or to meet a need. By consistently showing up with engaging content designed to educate, inspire, and motivate others, a savvy Pinterest marketer is destined to build a loyal following, one that frequents their website on a consistent basis. I know this to be true. I’ve done it. You can, too. 

I discovered the power of Pinterest in early 2018 while working on the pre-publication marketing campaign for my debut nonfiction picture book, GIRLS WITH GUTS: THE ROAD TO BREAKING BARRIERS AND BASHING RECORDS. I wanted to try news ways to promote the book, so I studied the strategic principles and tools of relationship marketing. Along with tons of social media hacks, I learned about the community fostering effects of the e-newsletter, how podcasting exponentially magnifies messaging, and about the robust marketing potential of Pinterest. I figured out to launch the e-newsletter and podcast on my own and hired a professional to manage my Pinterest platform. I’m so glad I did. My Pinterest specialist has now become my mentor. Under her tutelage, I’ve become even more astonished by the platform’s potential than ever before. There is a learning curve involved in establishing and maintaining a Pinterest platform, one that is well worth the effort to master. Especially now, in these uncertain times, when traditional modes of relationship marketing such as school visits and book festival signings are out of reach. 

Author Tami Lewis Brown is new to using Pinterest as a marketing tool and here’s what she has to say about the experience. “Pinterest is a visual encyclopedia of ideas and can offer all kinds of different experiences, depending on your needs and interests. Parents, teachers, and other adults already use Pinterest as a resource for everything from popsicle recipes to anti-bullying techniques to bulletin board ideas. I write non-fiction picture books and I love how Pinterest allows me to tap into that, to offer tie-ins, to build awareness and to promote interest in other books that young readers should know about. I have two new books, PERKIN’S PERFECT PURPLE and ART IS LIFE coming out this fall and it would be challenging (to say the least) to get the word out without Pinterest.” 

Like Tami, I’d like to invite you to consider how you might promote your work on Pinterest. Explore creative ways to connect with your audience. I’ll be sharing a few more posts to help you do just that. Until then, take some time to examine Tami’s Pinterest platform then ask yourself the following questions (Take notes, if you’d like. They could become in useful as you apply the information presented in the upcoming blog posts):

• Instead of merely showcasing your book cover and purchasing information, are there ways you might encourage more engagement with your topic and, perhaps, yourself? 

• List ways you might be able to educate your audience about your topic or services you offer.

• Is there an inspirational way to create content founded on your messaging that might encourage, uplift, or simply brighten someone’s day?

• Consider ways to keep your branding solid but your message fun and fresh.  

Your response to these statements can become the foundation for the first leg of your Pinterest stool – content! Then, by consistently posting pins crafted with your audience’s needs in mind you, too, can slowly-but-surely build a vibrant community on your engaging Pinterest marketing platform.  

You’re off to a great start!

Debbie Gonzales is an author, a career educator, and a Pinterest marketing specialist. Being passionate about the marketing potential of Pinterest, Deb delights in leading on-line or in-person workshops, managing client platforms, and coaching Pinterest users in one-on-one sessions. She has created and established the Guides by Deb website, a free resource consisting of over 300 standards-aligned teacher guides crafted for some of the finest kidlit books in the industry. Deb is the author of GIRLS WITH GUTS: THE ROAD TO BREAKING BARRIERS AND BASHING RECORDS. She earned her MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Learn more about Deb by accessing debbiegonzales.com or guidesbydeb.com.

*Note: This post is one in a series of three first published on the Cynsations blog. Click the links below to read the other two posts. To take a deeper dive into Pinterest for authors, Deb is hosting an online 3 Day DIY Pinterest Hands-On Workshop on Dec. 9, 2020.

https://cynthialeitichsmith.com/2020/09/guest-post-debbie-gonzales-on-pinterest-analytics-you/

https://cynthialeitichsmith.com/2020/09/guest-post-debbie-gonzales-on-personal-versus-business-pinterest-accounts/

SCBWI-MI News:

Attention Illustrators!

Next year, SCBWI-MI is offering two illustration mentorships. One is for picture book illustration with mentor Dow Phumiruk. The other is for middle grade or young adult illustration with mentor Brittany Jackson.

To learn more, go to the mentorship page on the SCBWI-MI website.

The submission window opens May 17, 2021. We look forward to hearing from you.

For questions, contact Ann Finkelstein, SCBWI-MI Mentorship coordinator. 

Painless Self-Promotion: Lessons Learned from a Debut Book Launch

Girls with Guts: The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records launched on May 14, just a few short weeks ago. Since then, I’ve been out and about celebrating my debut in several public events – and I have enjoyed every minute of the experience. I’ve also learned a few things along the way, three tips that you might find to be helpful, too.

Tip #1 – Just Roll with It:

I’ve learned that presenters have little to no control over the environment established in the venue. For instance, one of the launch events was held in a shopping mall. Not inside a quaint little shop or a quiet corner of the mall, mind you. No. Instead, rows of seats and signing tables were staged smack dab in the middle of a well-trafficked area without mics, to boot.

The original plan was present in an intimate “story time” type of setting. Uh…that just wasn’t going to happen. So, instead, I punted. Rather than performing a word-by-word recitation of the story, I (loudly) summarized each page, all the while moving in and out of the group in an animated fashion, engaging the kids by attempting to pull them into the story. In the end, the event was a rousing success! Kids were happy. Parents were smiling. Tons of books were signed. It was fun!

Tip #2 – Let Opportunity Lead:

One of the bookstore events was scheduled to be held mid-morning on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, and weather was simply glorious! Bright sunny skies. Warm gentle breezes. The perfect day for a walk in the park, OUTDOORS. Well, as you might guess, the attendance numbers were low. Some things are just not in our control, right?

Rather than being bummed about the crowd size, I used the opportunity to genuinely focus on the terrific folks who chose to come by to support my debut author journey. I studied the color of their eyes as we talked. As a result of being grateful and enjoying the moment, I met a kid blogger who has twice posted about the book and I found out about a cool program for teachers hosted by the store, one in which I can serve as a presenter!

Tip #3 – Be Self-Sufficient: 

I’ve discovered that, though there seems to be a great deal of energetic enthusiasm surrounding the promotion of the launch, the bookstore staff may not share in the buzz. The event coordinator was out of pocket when I first arrived at one of the events. The first person I spoke with worked in the cafe’ and (understandably so) seemed to have little interest in helping me set up. She kindly directed me to podium and then I busied myself making a nest. I pulled out my computer and swag, tidied up the podium, and arranged the stage as best I thought it would function well. After some time, the event coordinator arrived and, together, we cheerfully made things happen. In the end, all went well.

Overall, this book launching experience has left me consumed by a deep sense of gratitude. I’m thankful for the kind souls who have made it priority to attend each event, appreciative for those behind the scenes who have organized all the moving parts and humbled by all the love and support that has come my way. I can’t wait to do more of them!

Debbie Gonzales is a career educator, curriculum consultant, former school administrator, adjunct professor, and once served as a SCBWI RA for the Austin Chapter. Deb currently devotes her time to writing middle grade novels, crafting educator guides with Guides by Deb, producing The Debcast (a podcast dedicated to the empowering spirit of the female athlete) and various freelance projects. She’s the author of six “transitional” readers for New Zealand publisher, Giltedge, and the non-fiction picture book Girls with Guts: The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records (Charlesbridge, 2019). Deb currently serves as board member for the Michigan Reading Association. She earned her MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Learn more about Deb by accessing www.debbiegonzales.com.

Did you miss Debbie's previous Painless Self-Promotion posts? Click on the links below to read her entire series:

• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2019/02/painless-self-promotion-book-trailer.html
• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/11/painless-self-promotion-creating.html
• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/12/painless-self-promotion-confidence-by.html
• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2019/01/painless-self-promotion-unassuming.html

Want to learn more? KidLit 411 devoted an entire section of their website to resources for marketing and creating a platform: http://www.kidlit411.com/2014/01/creating-platform.html

Coming up on the Mitten blog: 

We're heading into a more relaxed schedule for the summer months, but we still have plenty of posts ahead, including a new Featured Illustrator, Hugs and Hurrahs, and much more. Follow our blog and never miss a post - simply enter your email on the right sidebar.

Happening now: 2019 Summer Art Show

Congrats to the SCBWI-MI illustrators with artwork featured at the Saline District Library! Shutta Crum is the guest speaker for the reception on June 23rd, and the artwork will be on display all summer. Please spread the word and visit if you're in the area:

Painless Self-Promotion: Book Trailer Basics

As my launch date approaches, I’m in a constant quandary as to where I should invest money on promotional materials and where I can get by with a little DIY-ing. The need for a book trailer falls into the quandary category. Is it crucial to have one? If so, who do book trailers appeal to and why? What are some of the key elements required to construct a compelling book trailer? Being the fact-finder that I am, I did a bit of poking around to see what goes into creating one. In doing so, I discovered a step-by-step approach to analyzing previously-crafted book trailers, or to dare to make one for yourself. I took this a step further and made a guide packet to help all of us figure this out together. (Click on the link! It’s yours for the taking.)

Book trailers are short and interesting because they focus on the highlights of a book without giving the entire story away. The purpose of these mini-films is to capture the attention of the viewer and get them interested in reading the book. To make a book trailer, its creator must have a solid understanding of the story’s beginning, middle, and end, as well as four basic elements that make the project great.

Effective book trailers concentrate on only a few main characters and leave the minor characters out. This technique enables the book trailer creator to focus on the most important aspects of the story. Also, it is not necessary to present characters as they physically appear in the story.  Images serve as effective symbols for characterization.  For example, a daisy can represent a tender personality, or a snake might show the evil side of a character.

Overloading the book trailer with too many details causes it to be slow and uninteresting. It is best to choose a few plot points and then develop those through revealing specific detail. It’s best to pick a few key moments in the story and elaborate on them. Highlight what makes a key moment memorable or interesting. Perhaps, state how it creates a plot twist, or how it sets up a conflict between characters. Tell what is at stake or ask a compelling question of some sort. Pare down the plot by deciding which key scenes best represent the overall premise of the story.

If you are considering making your own book trailer, storyboarding your project is a must! Storyboards create visual maps for book trailers by planning for the final book trailer visuals and script in a concrete manner. Movie makers use story boards to combine the script and the visuals together before filming the shots. Plans for sequencing and transitions are made through story boarding – be it text, sound or visuals. Once the story board script and visuals are satisfactorily completed, it is time to create a digital representation of your book trailer project.

After doing the research to make the Book Trailer Basics guide, I’m seriously thinking about attempting this process on my own. Though I might make a mess of the project, I’m going to give it a whirl. How about you? Are you daring enough to take the plunge with me? Let’s do this!

Debbie Gonzales is a career educator, curriculum consultant, former school administrator, adjunct professor, and once served as a SCBWI RA for the Austin Chapter. Deb currently devotes her time to writing middle grade novels, crafting educator guides with Guides by Deb, producing The Debcast (a podcast dedicated to the empowering spirit of the female athlete) and various freelance projects. She’s the author of six “transitional” readers for New Zealand publisher, Giltedge, and the forthcoming non-fiction picture book Girls with Guts: The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records (Charlesbridge, 2019). Deb currently serves as board member for the Michigan Reading Association. She earned her MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Learn more about Deb by accessing www.debbiegonzales.com.

Did you miss Debbie's previous Painless Self-Promotion posts? Click on the links below:

• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/11/painless-self-promotion-creating.html
• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2018/12/painless-self-promotion-confidence-by.html
• https://scbwimithemitten.blogspot.com/2019/01/painless-self-promotion-unassuming.html

Coming up on the Mitten Blog: Our new Ask the Editor feature! Katherine Gibson, editor at Zonderkidz will be answering your questions. See you next Friday!

Painless Self-Promotion: Unassuming Authenticity – A Case Study

Recently, I had a fabulous conversation with a long-time author friend about the notion of authenticity and its connection with visibility in the marketplace. We wondered if it were possible for an author or illustrator to be a genuine individual while achieving the notoriety of being a well-respected, highly successful published professional. If so, how is this done? Being that my pal and I share a broad and talented friend base, we explored how several of our colleagues have done it. One individual became the primary focus of our chat, an unassuming and humble writer who has risen to epic prominence in the Kid-Lit industry. This amazing artist, whom we’ll call Mary, once said that she “just lets things come to her.” I dare to disagree with that statement. Good things come to those who have worked for them. Mary is, and always has been, a diligent soldier. Let’s consider how this unassuming celebrity has rightly earned her place in the limelight.

First of all, Mary is a master of the craft. A master, I say. She’s been at this business of writing for a long, long time. Along with enjoying an active and happy life surrounded by family and friends, her writing time is sacred and disciplined. She’s dedicated to crafting thoughtful prose that emotionally resonates with young readers. I know this to true. I’ve witnessed her struggle. Her beautiful words, so effortlessly read on the page, are hard to come by. Knowing Mary, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Not only does Mary employ the earnest effort required to be one of the finest writers of the industry, she’s incredibly humble about her success. Community matters to Mary. Even though her work is lauded by The Hornbook and Publisher’s Weekly, she’s a regular at local SCBWI meet ups. She mentors fledgling poets and writers online and in formal sessions nationwide. She is fun to be with, supportive, and highly intuitive. A newbie writer would be wise to take heed of Mary’s suggestions. She knows her stuff. Mary’s unassuming dedication to SCBWI and its members has contributed to the authenticity of her visibility in the industry in big, big way. 

So, you see, Mary’s accolades and prominence have not merely “come her way.” She’s worked hard for them. She’s devoted to the craft of writing and faithful to those who have supported her successful journey. In doing so, she’s become known as one of the most talented, prolific writers in the industry today. Mary’s visibility is founded on sincerity and authenticity…something we all should aspire to emulate.

 My key takeaway from my conversation with my dear friend is that the establishment of “unassuming visibility” is a long game. There are no shortcuts to be found. Mary’s diligence proves this. We “pre” or newly published artists should take note that lasting visibility in the marketplace requires a steadfast commitment to the development of one’s craft and obligation to one’s community. This business of starlight celebrity does not happen overnight. Instead, we have to be true to our stories and to supporting one another – always and forever.  

Debbie Gonzales is a career educator, curriculum consultant, former school administrator and adjunct professor, and once served as the SCBWI RA for the Austin Chapter. She's the author of six “transitional” readers for New Zealand publisher, Giltedge, and the forthcoming non-fiction picture book Girls with Guts: The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records (Charlesbridge, 2019). Deb creates teacher guides for new releases and is the host of The Debcast, a podcast dedicated to the tenacious spirit of the female athlete. Deb earned her MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Subscribe to her podcast on iTunes and/or stop by www.debbiegonzales.com or www.guidesbydeb.com to check out her painlessly promotable content.



Coming up on the SCBWI-MI Blog: Hugs and Hurrahs! We want to trumpet your success! To be included, please email Patti Richards your recent writing/illustrating/publishing good news no later than January 23rd.

Painless Self-Promotion: Confidence by Debbie Gonzales

Confidence: When a Disaster Becomes a Directive

Self-promotion isn’t for the faint-hearted, that’s for sure. Not only does the task seem overwhelming −  what with blogs and vlogs, e-newsletters and Instagram, podcasts and Pinterest − it’s scary to put oneself out there! Truth be told, none of us are experts in this field. We’re all stubbing our toes while learning about this stuff. Each of us have strengths to build upon and challenges to conquer. There will be times that our confidence will flounder. Let me tell you of a time that mine fell flat.

Believe it or not, public speaking gives me the heebie-jeebies. I get a weird, putty-like blockage in the base of my throat just thinking about it. Yet, we all know to succeed in this book business, one must befriend the microphone. There’s no way around it. So, rather than shy away from the podium, I jump at the chance to speak. And when I do, I over-prepare by practicing until I’ve got the message down pat. However, there once was a time when preparation did not pay off and my presentation literally left me with a raging case of PTSD.

If something could go wrong during that nightmare of a presentation, it did. Tech trouble. Scheduling snafus. Awkward podium arrangement. No connection with the audience. My voice locked up. When I finally regained to ability to speak, I rushed the presentation so much that I was done twenty minutes early! All of this in front of a crowd of close to two hundred people. I was utterly humiliated. The disaster left me two options – quit or try again. I chose the latter.

You see, we all have aspects of this self-promotion platform-building that feels awkward and uncomfortable. I want to encourage you to lean into those areas. If I can do it, you can, too. When my spirit was damaged, I relied on my SCBWI-MI family to build me back up. I reached out to several of the Shop Talk leaders and volunteered to do a talk about the book publicity work I was engaged in at that time. They didn’t know that I was actively licking my public-speaking-disaster wounds. And, guess what? The presentations went well. Now, you must grab a hook to get me off the stage!

Friends, if you desire to establish or raise your visibility, start with your SCBWI community.

• Volunteer to write an article for The Mitten.
• Put together a presentation for your local Shop Talk meeting.
• Post shout-outs about good things that are happening within SCBWI-MI on social media.
• Share announcements and posts from the chapter’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. 
• Respond to messages posted on the chapter’s listserv.

Doing so will not only help to make your name more recognizable within the community, you’ll gain confidence every time you do.

Who knows… We might need to use a hook to get you off the stage, too.

Debbie Gonzales is a career educator, curriculum consultant, former school administrator and adjunct professor, and once served as the SCBWI RA for the Austin Chapter.  She's the author of six “transitional” readers for New Zealand publisher, Giltedge, and the forthcoming non-fiction picture book Girls with Guts: The Road to Breaking Barriers and Bashing Records (Charlesbridge, 2019). Deb creates teacher guides for new releases and is the host of The Debcast, a podcast dedicated to the tenacious spirit of the female athlete. Deb earned her MFA in writing for children and young adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Subscribe to her podcast on iTunes and/or stop by www.debbiegonzales.com or www.guidesbydeb.com to check out her painlessly promotable content.

Coming up on the Mitten Blog: a Book Birthday, a Writer Spotlight, and a break for the holidays! But first, here's an important message from our SCBWI-MI Mentorship Coordinator, Ann Finkelstein:

Attention Picture Book Writers!

SCBWI-MI is happy to help you with your New Year’s Resolutions.

Resolution 1: Figure out your membership status. (so easy)

If you are pre-published, you are an associate member.

If you are published, it depends on the publisher.

If your publisher is on this list of traditional publishers, you are a PAL member.

If your publisher is not on that list, you are a full member.

To check your official membership status, go to www.scbwi.org and click the Member Search box at the top right hand corner. Enter your name to look yourself up. If your listed membership status is not correct, contact SCBWI by email and explain the situation.

Resolution 2: Finish and polish your favorite picture book text. (significantly harder)

Remember we’re setting a limit of 600 words. We did this to save wear and tear on our super-secret, superstar judges and to increase your chances of publishing the manuscript.

Resolution 3: Apply for one of the SCBWI-MI Novel Mentorships (super easy)

The submission window for the PAL mentorship with Kelly DiPucchio is April 1-22, 2019.

The submission window for the non-PAL mentorship with Lisa Wheeler is June 3-24, 2019.

For additional information go to the SCBWI-MI website mentorship page. Click on  the submission instructions link to download a pdf of detailed instructions.

Make sure you apply for the correct mentorship! SCBWI-MI can do wondrous things, but we cannot yet turn back time – if you miss your submission window.

We will accept 30 applications for each mentorship, so don’t wait until the last minute to apply.

For questions, contact SCBWI-MI Mentorship Coordinator, Ann Finkelstein.


Last but not least, the SCBWI-MI Merry Mitten events wrap up this weekend at Pages Bookshop in Detroit: