Meet Your Writing Coach
From aspiring children’s book writer to 8-time published author - and how I can help you do the same.
The Journey from Rejection to Publication
I still remember the sting of my first rejection letter. Then my second. Then my tenth.
For years, I banged my head against the wall trying to break into the exclusive world of children's picture book publishing. I collected rejection after rejection and almost gave up entirely.
But then something shifted. I stopped trying to guess what publishers wanted and started learning what they actually needed. I studied the craft, took courses, and figured out the unspoken rules of the writing and publishing industry.
That persistence paid off. Today, I'm the author of 8 published picture books with major publishers including Penguin Random House and Groundwood Books. My work has been translated into five languages, featured in Publishers Weekly, and selected as an Editors' Choice in the New York Times Book Review.
From Author to Writing Coach
But here's what I'm most proud of: helping other writers skip the years of frustration I went through.
As a writing coach, I've guided dozens of aspiring authors through the same journey I took - from that terrifying blank page to holding their finished manuscript. I know exactly where writers get stuck because I've been stuck there too.
That's why I do this work. Not just to share what I've learned about picture book writing, but to be the guide I wish I'd had when I was starting out.
8
published picture books
(with more on the way)
15+
years
navigating the publishing industry
5
5 languages
my work has been translated into
30+
authors coached
from idea to finished manuscript
1
mission:
helping writers turn their stories into published books
Why Choose a Writing Coach Who's Actually Published?
Anyone can call themselves a writing coach, but not everyone has navigated the publishing industry successfully. When you work with me, you're learning from someone who has:
- Negotiated contracts with major publishers
- Worked with professional editors and art directors
- Understood market trends and reader preferences
- Built lasting relationships in the industry
This real-world experience means I can guide you not just in writing, but in creating work that actually gets published.
My Writing Coach Philosophy
Picture book writing isn't just about cute characters and clever wordplay (though those help!). It's about understanding story structure, pacing, character development, and the subtle art of engaging young readers while appealing to the adults reading to them.
Most important, it's about knowing the industry standards that separate amateur manuscripts from professional ones. As your writing coach, I don't just help you write - I help you write strategically for today's competitive publishing market.
Reach out to book a free discovery call now →“Heather guided me through the entire publishing process from start to finish.
One of Heather’s strengths is her ability to quickly identify the strengths and weaknesses of a manuscript. She gave me valuable feedback on my story, helping me to improve the plot, characters, and dialogue. Heather also helped me to craft a strong synopsis and book proposal, which hopefully get my book noticed by publishers.
I am so grateful for Heather’s help, she is a true professional, and I would highly recommend her to anyone who is looking to write a children's book.”
- Kavi
The Writing Coach Difference
Writing coaches vs. editors: While editors fix what you've written, writing coaches help you write it right from the start. As your writing coach, I work with you throughout the entire creative process, helping you develop strong story foundations, compelling characters, and industry-ready manuscripts.
My approach as a writing coach: I believe every writer has a unique voice and story to tell. My job isn't to make you write like me - it's to help you write like the best version of yourself while meeting professional standards that publishers expect.
Beyond the Books
This is actually my third career - and that's exactly why I understand the courage it takes to chase a writing dream later in life.
I began my writing career crafting advertising copy, where I learned the art of brevity - a skill that proved invaluable when I discovered the tight constraints of picture book writing. In advertising, every word has to earn its place, every sentence must move the story forward. Sound familiar? It's exactly what makes a great picture book.
Later, I spent years as a print and broadcast journalist and entertainment reporter, interviewing legends like Walter Matthau, Jack Lemmon, and Jim Carrey. Those experiences taught me how to craft compelling narratives and understand what truly captures an audience.
But through all three of my previous careers, I always had this nagging feeling that I had stories of my own to tell. Stories that weren't for clients or news segments, but stories that came from my heart. If you've worked for decades while nurturing a secret writing dream, you know exactly what I mean. The difference is, I finally decided to do something about it - and now I help others do the same.
My Favorite picture book reads:
✏ The Seven Silly Eaters by Mary Ann Hoberman
✏ Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
✏ Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
✏ Big by Vashti Harrison
✏ The Day the Crayons Quit by Oliver Jeffers
Ready to Write Your Story?
Here's what I know for sure: You have a story worth telling. The question isn't whether you're good enough to write a picture book - it's whether you're ready to learn how to do it right.
As your writing coach, I'll give you the same guidance, feedback, and industry insights that helped me go from rejected to published. More importantly, I'll help you avoid the mistakes that cost me years of frustration.
Your picture book journey doesn't have to be a lonely struggle. Let's work together to bring your story to life.
Three Ways I Can Support Your Writing Journey:
Private Coaching
Self-Paced Digital Course
Complete picture book writing system you can work through at your own pace ➝
Let's Start Your Success Story
Ready to transform from aspiring author to published writer?
I've walked this path from rejection to publication, and I know exactly how to guide you through it. Book a free discovery call and let's explore how my writing coach expertise can help you achieve your picture book dreams.
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