BIG TRUCK PLAYDATE Written by Laurie Carmody

By Suzy Leopold

Welcome to the GROG Blog, Laurie. I’m pleased to chat with you about your debut book. 

Big Truck Playdate

Written by Laurie Carmody

Illustrated by Jennica Lounsbury

Beaming Books, March 7, 2023

Happy Book Birthday!

Let’s begin . . . Your heartwarming book, Big Truck Playdate, shares a story from the perspective of Corey who is diagnosed on the autism spectrum. 

Big Truck Playdate

Rudine Sims Bishop, a professor, is referred to as the “Mother of Multicultural Literature.” She coined the words, “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding-glass Doors.” It is important for children to see themselves reflected in books and for all to understand differences and similarities to equal compassion and empathy for one another. 

Was it necessary to research facts and information about a disorder diagnosed on the autism spectrum? What surprised you the most as you wrote the story?

When I began writing, Corey was very clear in my mind - a truck-loving, passionate child that struggles to connect with his peers. Like so many children, Corey is neurodiverse. My sister-in-law has autism and my mom used to work as a teacher’s aide with neurodiverse students in an upstate New York school district, so I am familiar with some of the many ways autism can be present in the world. Always striving to represent Corey with authenticity and respect, however, I did research and worked closely with my editor at Beaming Books. And I’ll always be learning, especially regarding how to choose appropriate language that is inclusive and celebratory. 

Often writers are told to “Write what you know.” And to add to this thought, the often-asked question, “What was your inspiration for this story idea?” Please tell us more about the inspiration for Big Truck Playdate and how your story came together.

So many different memories and experiences inspired Big Truck Playdate. First, the truck: New neighbors moved in next door and parked a huge semi-truck in the driveway. This inspired me to write a story about a truck as a neighbor. After working with critique partners, the manuscript morphed into a story about a truck coming to school instead.

Second, the main character: Corey is partially inspired by a friend that my brother and I used to play with who was passionate about garage door openers. We had the best time when we combined our interests and just played! Corey is also inspired by my sister-in-law, Ashley, who has autism. She loves teddy bears like Corey loves trucks. Her love is so strong and pure, and it’s something that I admire about her.

  

Tell us about yourself and your writing journey. When did you become interested in writing children’s literature?

In 7th grade, I wrote and illustrated a picture book called ANDY THE ARMADILLO but it wasn’t until I became a mom and started checking out bags of books each week from our local library that I decided to try writing picture books for publication. I am absolutely in love with the picture book form. It is beautiful to see how text and art come together to shape a story. And the fact that it’s for children and adults to share is the icing on the cake.  

Do you write a first manuscript draft with pen or pencil and paper or do you type on a keyboard?

I almost always type on my laptop. Sometimes I’ll cut up sticky notes and arrange them into “spreads” in my notebook. Then I’ll write little thoughts and ideas and see how they fit. But most of my work is digital and I’m a huge fan of using google docs to track critique feedback.

Was your manuscript for Big Truck Playdate a submission

opportunity from a writing conference or webinar or was it

sent through a slush pile (aka sifting through gems)?

I had an Above the Slushpile Pass through the “Children’s Book Insider” magazine.

Complete this sentence. Laurie is an author and kid lit creator

who . . .

. . . is grateful every day for the support of friends, family, and kidlit community members.

Did you have any input on the bright, colorful illustrations by illustrator Jennica Lounsbury?

When I first saw Jennica’s online portfolio I think my entire family came running because I was shrieking so loudly! I was blown away by her ability to show love and connection through her sweet characters. I instantly knew she was the one to bring Corey, his truck, and his class to the page.

Share some recommended picture book titles. Are there recently published books on your To Read stack?

My debut group, the PB Sunrays, released so many great books released in the last year, and there are many more upcoming releases that I’m excited about!

Share a piece of advice or craft of writing tip that is helpful when writing for young readers.

Here are my top 5 tips!

1. READ other picture books. Write out the text. Walk around in them for a while; ask yourself why you love a certain part.

2. LISTEN to creators. Like, all creators. Read diverse books.

3. JOIN a community. SCBWI, Mighty Kid Lit, Critique groups, Facebook groups,

12 X 12, etc. Find your people and lift each other up. Ask all the questions so you'll be able to answer them someday.

4. PLAY with your manuscripts. Don't be afraid to revise! Someone told me to try Big Truck Playdate from the POV of a talking monster truck. I wrote it! And it made me realize I needed to stick with my original path.

5. PERSEVERE. When you want to give up, do one more thing. Then do the next thing. String them along and you'll get there. I promise.

Share your thoughts on the best way to market a picture book. What are some activities and events you are doing (or plan to do) to launch and promote your book?

The best thing I did was join a debut group. I’m part of the PB Sunrays--Picture Book Launch Group and they have helped me learn so much about marketing my own work as well as how to support other published authors. Some of the promotional activities I’m looking forward to include speaking at my children’s preschool, elementary school, and middle school, doing Storytime Sprint and working with my local bookstore Curious Iguana, and to do an event at one of my favorite libraries.

Any words of encouragement you’d like to share with book creators?

Don’t be afraid to get messy. Those times when your manuscript is a jumble? That’s OK. Keep going! Think of it like putting sand in your sandbox. Each revision gets you closer and closer to your sand castle. But it’s impossible to get there without getting sand in your suit! 

Are you prepared for some fun rapid-fire questions?

• Tell us something about yourself that we may not know.

I can eat any level of spicy food without a problem!

• What is your writing super power?

I come up with some strange connections that I try to put into a story format.

• Share a favorite bedtime story from when you were a kid.

The Big Orange Splot by Daniel Manus Pinkwater

•  Do you have a favorite snack and beverage?

Pita chips with hummous and a diet Coke.

•  What item(s) displayed on your desk gives you inspiration?

Lately I’ve been working from my couch. I sit right next to my Grandma’s fern (his name is Dennis Fronds). She died a few years ago and this is a cutting from a fern that was around when my dad was young. It reminds me that our stories grow and connect generations together. 

Thank you, Laurie, for sharing your debut book, Big Truck Playdate, with the followers of the GROG Blog. 

Where can the readers of the GROG Blog find out more about you?

Instagram

Twitter

Read Across America Day
"It was one of the best experiences
to see how the kids would react to
Big Truck Playdate."

Mighty Kid Lit Hosted by Michele Ziemke

By Suzy Leopold

Welcome to the GROG Blog Michele Ziemke! 

Michele is a kidlit creator. She enjoys writing and illustrating children's literature. She is also the creator of the kidlit platform Mighty KidLit.

WHO?

Hosted by Michele Ziemke and Percy the Mascot.

Percy

WHAT?

Mighty Kid Lit for authors and illustrators–published and pre-published. 

Six weeks ago Michele invited published and pre-published authors and

illustrators to become members of Mighty KidLit. Mighty Kid Lit continues

to welcome kidlit folks. This week the total reached 200 members.

The goal of Mighty Kid Lit is to create a supportive kidlit community for authors and illustrators at all levels of writing and illustrating experience. If you are new to creating children's literature or are a published author or illustrator this is a nurturing and caring community.

This free kidlit community offers:

• Creativity Building

• Book Launch and Birthday Parties

• Critique groups for writers and illustrators

• Art portfolios

• Pitch perfect critique group

• Picture book critique group

• Middle-grade critique group

• Chapter book critique group

• Picture book deep dive--a book study every month
• Resource page of picture books by Mighty Kid Lit members, including links to purchase and ISBN numbers to request from your local library
• Mentorships to inspire developing talent while offering an avenue for published and agented authors and illustrators to give back. This week, seven members will be chosen for the first two-week mentorship from published authors and illustrators.
• A bi-yearly showcase is in the planning stages. Literary agents and editors will be invited.

"It's like Twitter on steroids!" says Michele.

Illustrations created by Michele

WHEN?

Daily Digest posts; 24/7

Momentum Monday

Tickle Me Tuesday

Expert Wednesday

Writers Life Thursday

Fabulous Friday

Sharing Saturday

More events are coming soon! 

WHERE?

Join us at Mighty Kid Lit

Sharing an invite Notice as a referral from Michele and me. You may receive a redirect notice.

If you need further information please contact Suzy at sleopold@gmail.com

WHY?

Michele believes, "Children’s literature has the power to change the world

one word at a time, building love, acceptance, and a sense of community

in young lives."

She continues, "I was given so much by the KidLit community, that I really wanted to give back. I believe we can create an awesome community with awesome writers and

illustrators who strive to be connected and strive to be more creative. 

It’s impossible to become creative overnight, and awesomeness never happens

alone." 

Michele and Chole

Thank you, Michele, for your generosity in giving to the kidlit community by creating the Mighty Kid Lit platform. It's a great place where book creators can come together for support and opportunities to learn and grow. 

Percy, Michele, and I look forward to welcoming new members to Mighty Kid Lit. Let's read, write, and create together.

To find more information about Michele:

Twitter

Artist / Author / Optimist

Facebook

Building, Creating, and Sustaining Ideal Critique Partner Relationships

 By Suzy Leopold

Successful critique groups support a writer's journey by helping writers shine and create polished stories.

Organizing a thriving critique group: 

• Begins with the right group of people.
• Includes writers who write in the same or similar genre
• Is best with members who have a similar level of experience
• Incorporates established expectations and guidelines

Writers can grow, learn, and develop the craft of writing by giving and receiving manuscript critiques.

Giving a critique is subjective. Some writers read for meaning while others focus on word choice and grammar. 

Ideas for giving a manuscript critique:

• Always begin and end with positive comments.
• Be aware of your own biases and preferences.
• Read the manuscript aloud, then set it aside to think and ponder. Doing so creates a better evaluation.
• Be helpful and supportive with concrete information and reasons for suggestions.

Receiving feedback for a manuscript critique can be overwhelming. It's natural to want to protect your writing. 

Ideas for receiving a manuscript critique:

• Consider all comments by listening to or reading feedback with an open mind. 
• Do not interrupt or respond in a defensive manner.
• Ask clarifying questions to expand on the suggestions for a clearer understanding.
• Set aside the manuscript to think and ponder then revisit it. This will give you a clearer vision for polishing to stay true to your voice and vision for the project.

Photo Credit: Good Story Company

Whether giving or receiving a manuscript critique, read the story aloud and spend time with the piece. 

The writer spent time creating a story. A thoughtful, trusted critique partner spends more than five or ten minutes giving helpful feedback and should offer suggestions for improvement without changing the voice or vision of the story. If you share similar thoughts about feedback from members of the group, share a new perspective without repeating, "I agree" or "ditto." Additionally, this is not the time to be harsh nor is it time to be a “cheerleader” for the project. 

If a critique group meets in person, send manuscripts in advance electronically to members. This allows for additional time with the project followed by a discussion when the writers gather together.

Always say thank you after receiving comments for a critique. Then after much thought carefully consider all feedback. Think about listing the comments and feedback into three columns—Yes, I need to revise and polish; Maybe, I need to consider a revision; No, the suggestion does not resonate with me.

I reached out to writers, authors, and creatives on Twitter. I received the following suggestions from the kidlit community.

Sharing Twelve Responses:

Please note: Each link will share a redirect notice. Click to be sent to the website.

Keep the group under 12 but over 5. That way nobody burns out & people can bow out when they’re too busy. A slack channel works best for us since we’re all over geographically. There are no set meetings & no due dates unless someone’s on deadline. Google docs are your friends.

--Jess Hernandez, Author First Day of Unicorn School

Jess Hernandez Writes

Be consistent in participation and curious about things to learn from each other.

--Shaunda Wenger, Author Chicken Frank, Dinosaur

S. K. Wenger

1. Regardless of how you feel about the suggestions, always say THANK YOU.
2. You want a critique partner who sees things differently than you do. Otherwise, you might as well just edit yourself.
3. Remember, it's your book, you decide, keep your voice.

--C. Louise Donovan, Writer

When it’s your turn to receive critique, answer questions only. Wait until everyone is thru before asking *your* Qs. No interjections, no “what I was trying for was…(if you have to say that, it didn’t come across, and needs rework). They are there to help! Don’t get defensive.

Just bc someone suggested the change doesn’t mean you have to implement it. It’s YOUR work, you make the call.

But if you hear the same feedback three times, pls consider it, in some form.

--Bitsy Kemper, Author & Speaker

Bitsy Kemper Worth Reading

For some, flexibility is the key. Make sure everyone in the group agrees upon a general structure. Some groups have deadlines, that doesn’t work for me. In my groups, we have an understanding that we make requests when we are in need, and we always answer those who need help.

--Lydia Lukidis, Author and Freelance Journalist

Lydia Lukidis

Critique with kindness. The writer created something and was brave in sharing. Receive critiques with kindness. The feedback is meant to help (and you can disregard what doesn’t settle well with you).

--Monica Acker, Author Brave Like Mom

Monica Acker

Photo by S. Leopold 

It’s important to be honest and upfront about what you want to get out of the CG process. Big-picture guidance? Line editing? Discuss in advance how detailed you want your feedback to be so it’s an equitable experience.

--Louise M. Aamodt, Author A Forest Begins Anew, 2025

Building: start by swapping manuscripts. I was on 12 X 12 Challenge, but you can also go to writers Facebook page such as kidlit411 swap. If someone is a good fit for you (writing and critiquing) start a group of two. Set the rules and keep on swapping and finding good candidates.

Sustain: follow the rules set up by your group. Decide how frequently you will submit and how long you have to critique. Is it all by email or video call? Important: critique all manuscripts even if you didn’t submit anything. A lot of groups die because the critiquers can’t find time to critique. If you want to stay in this group, unless you have major emergency (let them know) keep up with the critique. We count on our partners.

--Ana Siqueira, Author

Ana The Teacher and the Writer

When giving a critique, be kind. Offer helpful suggestions, but always remember whose story this is. Don't try to rewrite it or make changes that don't adhere to the author's vision. Tell what you like, what you feel works for the story. If you are confused, say so. If the storyline confuses you, it would probably also confuse a child. When you find a problem with a line or paragraph, tell the author why.

Sandwich your critique by first offering a compliment, then tell what you feel needs changed or what doesn't seem to work with the story, and lastly, tell what you liked about the story. 

When reading a manuscript, listen to the voice. Does it ring true?  Envision the story through the character's POV. Does the author stick to the point of view of his/her character(s)?

--Debra Daugherty, Author  

Debra's Blog

Ten Reasons Why Writing Groups Flounder, Fizzle, or Fail:

1. Members use the group for the wrong reason. 
2. Critiques are too harsh. 
3. Critiques are too positive.
4. Members drop out before the group gels.
5. There are varying levels of commitment to writing.
6. Attendance is sporadic.
7. Sessions focus on content, not writing.
8. There is poor personal chemistry between members.
9. Members don't appreciate the different styles and abilities of the group.
10. There is jealousy and competitiveness.

--Kathy Briccetti, Writer, Blogger

Literary Mama

Be respectful, offer helpful suggestions without trying to rewrite or change someone's story.

--Kelly Swemba, Author

My World of Books, Band-Aids and Beauty

A tip that works for my group - we do a cold read and don't send out the ms ahead of time so the writer gets an idea how an agent/editor would approach it when they receive via their email.

And I suggest if the group is PB only, it's very helpful to have at least one illustrator in the group.

--Kathy Halsey, Children’s Writer, Educator, Speaker

Take the Write Road

I've found that there's no substitute for time! The trust that builds over time is really important in the crit partner relationship, so stick with it!

And communicate with your crit partners about what you're looking for on a particular piece: e.g. "This is rough but should I pursue the idea?" or " I think this is pretty polished, is it ready to send to an agent?" or "I know something isn't working, can you help me identify what it is?"

--Chris Mihaly, Children’s Author

Christy Mihaly

Photo by S. Leopold

For additional resources:

1. "The 4 Hidden Dangers of Writing Groups"

By Jennie Nash

Jane Friedman Blog, 2016 

2. Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration

Written by Ed Catmull

Random House, 2014

3. The Writing Group Book: Creating and Sustaining a Successful Writing Group

Edited by Lisa Rosenthal

Chicago Review Press, 2003

Please share your tips and suggestions for successful and sustaining writing partners/groups in the comments. What have you found that works well for you and your critique partners/group?

Happy reading, writing, and creating.