Anitra gives thanks, and a critique!

Picture book writers don’t get much room for acknowledgments in their books, but we have so many people to thank. It’s been a week since DANCING WITH DADDY - the debut picture book of Troupe member Anitra Rowe Schulte, illustrated by Ziyue Chen (Two Lions) - arrived on bookshelves…

*Illustration by Anne Appert, Leah Hong and Neesha Hudson*

… and it’s time to say THANKS!

Here’s a message from Troupe member Anitra Rowe Schulte:

It’s been such an exciting week - DANCING WITH DADDY is officially out in the world! But truth be told, this is a moment four years in the making. And each day that preceded this past week was filled with people and moments almost too wonderful for words. I am so, so grateful.

When I decided to jump into the deep end of children’s books and learn to tread, I had my husband, Dan, in my corner from day one. There have been many late writing nights, many webinars and conferences, many books ALL OVER OUR HOUSE. Thank you, Dan, for supporting me and giving my craft the space that it needed to grow.

To my three girls, DANCING WITH DADDY would simply not exist without you! Your love for each other inspired this story and inspires me still. I hope you see yourselves on these pages and know how much I love you. I will dance with you anytime, anywhere.

To my parents, Bill and Cheryl, for leaving my writing work on the kitchen counter for the family to read and treating it like it was something of value, for always reminding me to dig in and work hard, for celebrating the little things and the big ones. Your encouragement has always been wind in my sail. I don’t even want to imagine where I’d be without you.

To my agent Stephanie Hansen, for believing in my work and championing my stories. You are a partner in every sense of the word! To Kelsey Skea and the entire Two Lions crew – what an absolute dream team. Your care and vision for DANCING WITH DADDY continues to blow me away! And to illustrator Ziyue Chen, I’ll never find the proper words to thank you for the love and light that you gave to this story – but I’ll keep on trying!

To my critique partners and the members of PB Debut Troupe 21, when no one in my world gets this writing life, you do. Your feedback has made my work so much better, and your friendship has made this entire journey an utter joy. Though we often meet virtually, your generosity and energy are felt deeply and keep my boat afloat!

To show her appreciation of the picture book community, Anitra is giving away a picture book critique!

To enter: