#FirstDraftFriday 2023 is underway, and we've got debut author Kelly Swemba here to share about her heartfelt new book, MISSING VIOLET. But first, a quick reminder that everyone is welcome to participate in #FirstDraftFriday; however, if you want a little extra accountability and motivation—plus a chance at a GRAND PRIZE at year-end—take the pledge to try to complete 12 #FirstDraftFridays in 2023. (Only available to sign through the end of today, 1/6/23.) Now let's get starte

Happy New Year 2023! We're celebrating not just the holiday today but also the second anniversary of #FirstDraftFriday! When I launched this on Jan. 1, 2021, I worried no one would join in. Thankfully, lots of you did and we've had two great years! I want to do even more with #FirstDraftFriday in 2023, hence, this #SundayEdition special event. Everyone is welcome to participate in #FirstDraftFriday, but if you want a little extra accountability and motivation—plus a chance at

#FirstDraftFriday is rolling into its third year, and I couldn't be more excited! It's been a blast interviewing authors and learning how their first drafts came to be, then seeing so many kidlit community members create their own new picture book drafts each month. I'm so grateful to everyone who's taken part thus far, as a guest or a participant. My goal for 2023 is to have another great year of this event...but also, kick things up a notch. So, I've got a few surprises to