Start Small

Turn Your Idea Into a Book Step by Step

The best way to start writing is to start small. It helps to have a guide along the way. Start Small will help you take those very first steps toward writing your book. I’ll be with you every step of the way!

Start Small Includes:

• A 32-page workbook with mini assignments designed to help you take action

• Access to a private Voxer room, so you can get to know other writers and cheer each other on all summer long (Starts 6/14.)

• Personal email checks-ins when you can ask me anything

• Gentle accountability and encouragement

• A juicy discount code for a manuscript critique in the fall, so we can get whatever you wrote over the summer submission ready! (If for some reason, I’m not the right editor for your book, I’ll recommend a few editors instead.)

You are full of creativity. You know more about writing a book than you think you do, and you can figure out the rest along the way. I can’t wait to see what you create!

I believe in you.

Turn down the overwhelm and write your book.

Let’s go!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Start Small different?

Start Small is less about craft and mindset and more about taking action in tiny, sneaky ways, so writing a whole book doesn’t feel so overwhelming. It’s designed to help you make progress and get words down on the page. Treat the workbook like a checklist and you’ll have a solid draft done in three months. Then we can polish it together. But first, you need to start, and I recommend starting small.

Who is this for?

This is for anyone who says, “I want to write a book, but how do I get started?” or “I have an idea, but I can’t get myself to write anything down.” Totally new writers, illustrators who want to be writers, and experienced writers who want to experiment with a new genre are all welcome.

Is this only for picture-book writers?

No. A couple mini assignments might be more relevant to picture-book writers, but most will be a good fit for anyone. The workbook is designed to help anyone move from thinking about writing to actually writing.

What if I don’t want to join the Voxer room?

That’s totally okay! Start Small is all about making writing a manageable project. Do whatever helps you move forward. But please don’t be afraid to say hi. The writers in this group are warm and encouraging! It can be really energizing to write knowing others are writing too, and it’s a good way to meet other writers.

What are the personal check ins like?

Think of me as your personal writing cheerleader. Throughout the summer, I’ll email you to see how your writing is going. You can share where you’re at, and we’ll celebrate any small wins you’ve had along the way. If you’re struggling, I’ll also answer any questions you have and help you make a plan, so you can keep going. I won’t be reading any pages, but I will offer a juicy discount for a full manuscript critique in the fall.

What can I expect at the end?

When you’re done, you’ll have a draft completed, and you’ll be ready for a manuscript critique. You’ll also be part of a warm community of kindred spirits. You’ll be a writer!