Oohs and Aahs for 2.28.25

How to write the very first draft

You might know the name of this newsletter, Nebula Notebook, is inspired by the notebooks I start every time I decide to work on a new project. I call them my nebula notebooks to encourage my brain to slow down, dream, and explore, as though I was floating through a beautiful nebula. This is where I write the draft that comes before the first draft.

Unfortunately this is a step where a lot of writers get stuck. It’s tempting to jump to the first draft, but there’s actually some secret prewriting work that needs to happen! When I start a new notebook I…

• Write down EVERY idea I have, whether it makes sense or not

• Read a million picture books and take notes on moments that feel magical or inspiring (Totally doable if you go to the library once a week.)

• Figure out WHO the story is about

• Make a list of things that could happen

• Think about HOW my main character would respond in each of those scenarios

• Write ten versions of the first line

• Write ten versions of the ending

• Decide which ones I like best and connect the dots

By then it’s usually time to write a first draft, but it’s not so scary. I’ve given myself a running start, and I’m ready! When I feel like I have something that’s headed in the right direction, I share it with my most trusted writing friends.

If you’re looking for more than a “Nice job” or “I don’t get it,” I offer critiques and coaching sessions. My clients get expert feedback on plot, character, theme, and format. They MAKE PROGRESS FASTER. They also sign with agents and win awards. They learn how to enjoy the writing process so they can KEEP GOING even when life is bananas. 🍌🍌🍌

Writing a picture book is harder than it looks, even if you’ve done it before. But you don’t have to do it alone!👏👏👏

Wondering if a critique is right for you? Hit reply and we’ll figure it out together!

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This Week I’m…

• Abstaining from streaming and spending today💪

• Adding

  Sunita
  ’s middle-grade ADHD/autistic friendly books to my list 💕 (She was inspired to finish her post when she saw mine on picture books! Here’s the link ICYMI.)

• Watching Antoni’s new show 🍕

• Wondering about this 😬

• Feeling very seen by

  Nelly Bryce
  ’s post encouraging women to take their foot off the gas more often 👏

• Reading

  Maddy Odom
  ’s guide to creating an elevated zine and the power of microprojects 🤓

• Appreciating

  milk and cookies
  take on soft ambition 🐌

• Working my way through Muchelle’s Life Map workbook (I find her short podcast episodes really impactful.) 📝

• Joining the Free Mama Bear movement 🤣

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Nebula Notebook is a place to meet kindred spirits, get inspired, and learn how to find ease and joy in the creative process—even when life is bananas. 🍌🍌🍌

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✏️ PS—The fastest way to grow as a writer is to book a manuscript critique or a creative coaching session with an expert. My clients get agents, sell books, and win awards. They also learn how to enjoy the creative process, so they can keep going when life gets hard. 👏