I've started this site to continue my writing journey, share my love of writing and books with you, and hopefully to inspire some of you to start writing, too!
I really enjoy the entire creative process, from getting the very first inkling of an idea down on paper and revising it (a million times), to taking a manuscript out for critique, revising it again, completing it (if that is even possible) and (hopefully soon!) seeing an actual book - not paper-with-a-million-cross-out revision-lines, not a twelfth-version-track-changes-document on a computer screen - but an actual BOOK on a bookshelf.
It's an exhilarating (and simultaneously terrifying) journey.
But, as long as there are stories to be told and characters begging for life, I'll keep writing. And while I hope I can do them justice, I
know I'm going to enjoy trying.
What you'll find on Pickle Corn Jam
Writing!
3 Word Challenges
I consider these my writing workout. If I can't make it to the gym (let's be honest - EVER), at least I can get my workout here! I encourage every reader to submit three words to me which I will then craft into a poem, a short story or a story snippet (fo' free!). Please keep the words clean - this is a site about books and writing for kids, after all! Please also keep in mind that since the goal with these pieces is to connect the words in fresh and creative ways (
quickly), I won't always meet your expectations completely. With only three words to go on, we might have a very different vision. I hope that you like what I write, but if you don't, feel free to contact me, or give it another go with three different words.
Reviews!
Storytime Combos
Here you'll find groupings of 3 picture books centering on a topic or theme. These picture books are perfect for story times, generally for readers (listeners!) ages 3-8. I usually post these combos to my Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts. Come follow me!
Traditional Reviews
I love to read children's books. I love exploring new authors, new-to-me authors, classic authors - anything kidlit related! I'll review some of the books I am reading, and let you know when I find one that I feel is an absolute must-read.
The Well Read Guess & Well Read Review
The Well Read Guess features a quote from a book (and sometimes an illustration). These giveaway contests are open for a week or so, and are followed up by a review of the featured book.
While most of the reviews on the site are currently centered on picture books, keep an eye out for more middle grade and young adult reviews!
Please note: I do not currently review books at the request of authors/publishers/agents. Thanks for understanding!
KidLit News!
The Big Picture
Where I stand on issues affecting the book industry. I'd love to hear your thoughts, too!
Local Events
I'll list local picture book related events here, from book launches and writing classes, to festivals and even fun story times!
Plus...giveaways. Who doesn't love free books?
Thanks for taking the journey with me! I hope you enjoy!