Debra 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 almost a week since FREAKY, FUNKY FISH - the picture book debut of Troupe member Debra Kempf Shumaker, illustrated by Claire Powell (Running Press Kids) - swam onto shelves…
Illustration by Anne Appert, Leah Hong and Neesha Hudson
… and it’s time to say THANKS!
Here’s a message from Troupe member and debut picture book author Debra Kempf Shumaker:
I am so thankful for my family and friends who have supported my dream to be a picture book author. My ultimate gratitude to my husband and kids who have done a million little things to give me space and time to work and to cheer me on.
I owe endless thanks to my critique groups and various critique partners who have provided feedback on my stories. They have commiserated with me and cheered me on through all the ups and downs of this publishing process.
I’m deeply indebted to Natascha Morris for believing in this book and connecting me with Allison Cohen at Running Press Kids. Thanks to Allison for her support and insight. And, of course, hats off to illustrator Claire Powell—what a fun book FREAKY, FUNKY FISH turned out to be! Each spread will make readers giggle. And those endpapers—just so much fun. Thanks to James McGowan and BookEnds Literary, too.
Thanks also to Dr. Adela Roa-Varón at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum who reviewed the facts in FREAKY, FUNKY FISH. After all, science can be both fun and factual!
Last, but not least, thanks to PB Debut Troupe 21. The debut year is a crazy and fun time and I am so thrilled we are all doing it together! I am incredibly grateful for the group we’ve become.
To show her appreciation of the picture book community, Debra is giving away ONE manuscript critique to a picture book writer!
To enter:
Follow Debra Kempf Shumaker on Twitter (@ShumakerDebra)
Follow PB Debut Troupe 21 on Twitter (@PBTroupe21)
Retweet the Troupe’s “Thank You” giveaway tweet
ONE winner will be chosen at random by May 12, 2021. A Troupe member will be in touch about how to claim your prize.
Debra’s debut picture book is available everywhere, now!
Purchase FREAKY, FUNKY FISH through one of the following retailers:
Learn more about Debra!
Check out her website: www.debrashumaker.com
Follow her on Twitter: @ShumakerDebra
And on Instagram: @debrakshumaker
