Aviva Gittle Publishing offers great stories for children in English and Spanish, including the Kitten and Friends / Gatito y amigos series. Aviva’s website, www.GoToGittle.com shares the stories of authors, illustrators and others who create books and creative media for children.How Do You Market Your Books?
An ‘About’ page allows readers to get to know you. We like to buy from people we like.
How do you market your books? It is a question that indie authors ask all the time. There are so many different ways to promote your work — and tons of books and articles on the topic — that authors get overwhelmed. “Just tell us what works for you,” they seem to be saying.
The marketing techniques you use are unique to you. Your personality, your technical skill level, your budget, the amount of time you can devote to it. There is no one way. There is no system. There are, however, basic building blocks that every author who wants to sell books needs. (See Helpful Resources below my bio.)
Rosie Russell, a fellow indie publisher and author of Beasley’s Journey, asked if I had used any of the marketing techniques mentioned in the article A List of Different Types of Marketing Strategies posted on ListTypes.com.
You should start with Call to Action. Here’s how TypeList defines it:
A Call to Action (CTA) on GoToGittle.com
“Call to Action (CTA) Marketing – CTA is a part of inbound marketing used on websites [my emphasis] in the form of a banner, text or graphic, where it is meant to prompt a person to click it and move into the conversion funnel, that is, from searching to navigating an online store to converting to a sale.”
Every author needs a website. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it does need to have a way to buy your books. This could be as simple as having a button that says “Buy” or “Shop” below a picture of the book’s cover and links to its detail page on an online store, like Amazon.
There are two ways to get a website: Hire someone to do it or build it yourself. From there, you can continue to pay someone to update the site as needed or you can have that person train you on the basics.
After getting bids from freelancers on what is now Upwork.com, I ended up finding someone local through Yelp. He charged $450 to build my website with WordPress using a theme I purchased online. (A theme is a framework that provides the web developer with a template for your website.) I knew that this price was reasonable after getting quotes generally between $1,200 and $5,000.
Work with someone locally, if you can. Alejandro and I were able to sit down together to discuss the functionality I needed (which I sketched out on paper) and, when he finished, to give me basic training on how to add and change things on the website. (Take notes!)
Be sure to have an SOW (Statement of Work) that spells out what the web developer is going to do for you, at what cost. It should specify how many revisions the developer is willing to do.
My Amazon Author Page lists my books, but it can also include videos, my blog and Twitter feeds, and more.
Stay away from development / design services like those offered by GoDaddy. First, they are very expensive. But, worse, GoDaddy considers the website they build for you “proprietary” and won’t allow you to move it to another hosting site. (I don’t know if other web hosting companies do this so be sure to ask.)
What is a hosting site, you ask? This is where your website files will reside. You can host your own website by buying and maintaining your own server. If you can do that, you can probably build your own website. I recommend WebHostingHub.com, but there are many others. You save a lot of money by paying for 1-3 years up front.
My website is overkill for most authors. Here is the minimum you need:
- Front page that shows your books with a button below each one that links to the place readers can buy your books (like Amazon.com).
- An About page with your bio and a way to contact you.
- Links to your social media, like your Facebook page and Twitter account.
Get started with this. You can always add things later, like a signup form for a newsletter.
Last thing: You should take advantage of the free author page on Amazon.com. Here’s mine.
Think of your author website as the center of your marketing. Keep it simple and don’t let anyone talk you into more functionality than you need to get started. You can always expand it later. For now, give potential readers a place to buy your books and get to know you better. 😸
Sign up for Gittle News and follow me on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to hear about new articles on everything related to self-publishing. Have a topic you want me to write about? Email me at GoToGittle@gmail.com. Other Aviva’s Advice articles: Edit Thyself? Is Your Book Global?
Aviva Gittle Publishing offers great stories for children in English and Spanish, including the Kitten and Friends / Gatito y amigos series. Aviva’s website, www.GoToGittle.com shares the stories of authors, illustrators and others who create books and creative media for children.
Helpful Resources
10 Tips for Working With Web Designers
Author Websites Must Have Elements
How to setup your Amazon Author page (YouTube Video)
Edit Thyself?
Author J.K. Rowling signs copies of her book ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’ (Getty Images)
You can ask J.K. Rowling, author of the wildly successful Harry Potter series, one question about publishing your first children’s book. What would you ask her?
Based on posts in LinkedIn’s groups for writers, many would use this golden opportunity to ask Ms. Rowling whether they should buy a block of ISBN numbers. Or which print-on-demand company is best. They might ask how to get their book illustrated on the cheap.
This is embarrassing to admit: Those were my first questions, too.
Four years and over a dozen self-published books later, the first question I would ask Ms. Rowling is: “Can you recommend a great editor?”
Some indie authors don’t think they need a professional editor because friends and family tell them their story is great. In a survey done by SellBox.com of 307 self-publishers, only 46% paid a professional editor to review their manuscript before they published it. 20% had a friend do it and 34% did it themselves.
In 2013, I decided to self-publish a children’s story I had written in 1995. I read Chloe and the Belly Beast to a few family members and friends through the years and always received positive feedback. I personally liked the story. So – there you go – ready to publish!
We all know the truth, don’t we? Our friends and family don’t want to hurt our feelings or discourage our dreams. Once my sister, an award-winning TV promotions writer, editor and producer, knew that I was actually going to publish this book, she started to get real with me. She provided – gasp! – honest feedback on the story.
Sketch from Chloe and the Belly Beast — still unpublished (Artist: Indrachapa Weerasinghe)
The story was confusing. She couldn’t tell over what time period it took place. Days? Weeks? Years? Some of the language sounded dated and vocabulary too advanced for the age of my target audience.
Most of us are not lucky enough to have an award-winning writer available to review our work. For free. But, she’s my sister, with all that history of sibling rivalry. I realized I couldn’t have her edit my work. The process transformed me from a middle-aged woman into a sullen teenager.
By this time, I had written several stories. Like many writers heading down the self-publishing path, I had no idea where to find an editor and assumed it was expensive. With online freelancing companies now plentiful, it was easy to find out. I posted a job on what is now Upwork.com.
After reviewing multiple bids, I hired two editors. It turned out that it was very reasonably priced. I had the first one edit the stories, then gave those versions to the second editor. Then back to the first editor. This was done a few times until I had a version of each story that I liked. They made some of the same edits my sister suggested. But, it was far easier to have strangers make changes to my “babies.”
Often, self-publishers assume they can’t afford an editor. But, if you don’t know how much it costs, how do you know you can’t afford it? (Tip: The most expensive editor is not always the best.) If your story is so important to you that you are willing to share it with the world, why are you not willing to put some money where your pen is?
Many indie authors wax poetic about their love and sacrifice for the written word. Prove it. Forgo take-out food, lattes, and quit smoking. Before you know it, you’ll have enough to pay a good editor. Should you ever run into Ms. Rowling, ask her for a referral. I’m betting she has a few great editors on speed dial.
Other Aviva’s Advice articles: Is Your Book Global? How Do You Market Your Books?
Aviva Gittle Publishing offers great stories for children in English and Spanish, including the Kitten and Friends / Gatito y amigos series. Aviva’s website, www.GoToGittle.com shares the stories of authors, illustrators and others who create books and creative media for children.
Is Your Book Global?
Moon Jump / Salto Lunar by Aviva Gittle. Illustrated by Carlos Brito
More authors are offering their books in other languages — particularly Spanish. It’s a great idea! But don’t go it alone — be sure to hire a professional translator.
Is your book global? It’s a great idea to translate your stories into other languages. Particularly to Spanish. Those Spanish-language and English/Spanish bilingual readers are the fastest-growing segment of the population in America. I focus on Spanish, but the advice applies to translating your book into any language.
I have most of my stories translated. Hablo español muy poco.Lol! When I decided that Aviva Gittle Publishing would “write and publish great stories for children in English and Spanish,” I thought it would not be that hard to do. Ay yay yay (Yiddish translation: “Oy vey”) — was I wrong!
In fact, I was so confident, I created my Spanish-language promo video before I had published one Spanish-language story. (Watch video.)
There is nothing worse than poorly translated work. Think of anything you’ve read that has been poorly translated into English.
Gatito y Mariposa / Kitten & Butterfly by Aviva Gittle. Illustrated by Tekla Huszár
Let me warn you; translating to Spanish is not easy. The language is different from Mexico to Spain to Panama, etc. I know so little Spanish that I really can’t tell you what’s different. But, the different translators sure knew. There are also cultural differences that can come back to bite you. For example, a Panamanian reviewer told me that a word in one of my story translations is slang for something not very nice in one Spanish-speaking country. Fortunately, that version was never published.
Just like writing in English, you will need a Spanish-language editor to review the translator’s work. (If you don’t use a professional editor for your English-language stories, read this.) Ideally, you will get feedback from Spanish-language readers before you publish.
My stories have been translated, reviewed, checked, rechecked and reviewed again by no less than four translators. Seven if you count Mariana’s friends and family. (Gracias, Mariana Llanos!)
My suggestion is that you post a job on an online freelance staffing company. There are many. Indicate number of stories, word count per story, and total word count for the job.
Do not have your friend, neighbor, or Spanish-speaking son-in-law translate your work. Pay a professional to do it. Then have friends and family read it and give feedback.
It took me over a year to publish my first Spanish-language story. Why so long? I was terrified of Spanish-language readers knowing it was translated from English. I was also very unsure about marketing the books. I’m still struggling with that. It’s not just the story that needs translating; it’s also the book blurb, marketing materials, front and back matter, etc. If you can afford it, consider hiring a bilingual virtual assistant to help with posting and tweeting about the books in their native language.
Finally, give Spanish-language readers the Spanish-version (without the corresponding English version) for feedback. You want them to feel that they are reading a story that was written in their language. Wouldn’t you?
Other Columns: Edit Thyself? How Do You Market Your Books?
Hi! My name is Aviva Gittle and I love to write stories. About curious kittens, boys who turn into bagels and bad little girls who never say “please.” I’ve been writing since I was a little girl. In 2005, I wrote a story about a fly who invites himself to lunch at a little boy’s house called “Mort the Fly.” In 2013 (yes, it took that long), I decided to self-publish the story. Since then, I have written many more stories including the 7-book series, “Kitten and Friends” and “In Nana’s Arms.” Mark Megson and I wrote “Moon Jump” and “Mary’s Magic Word.”
Moon Jump: Download FREE Coloring Page!
- At June 21, 2016
- By Aviva Gittle
- In Books, Coloring Pages
0
Here is a free coloring page from the book Moon Jump written by Mark Megson and Aviva Gittle. Illustrated by award-winning artist Carlos Brito.
Download FREE Moon Jump Coloring Page
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Bonnie Ferrante – #3 on The Gittle List 2015
Bonnie Ferrante earned the #3 spot on The Gittle List for The Amida Tree, a book she wrote and illustrated. (Read my review.)
How did it feel to win a spot on The Gittle List Top 10? Had you ever gotten an award for any of your other work? It’s always lovely to have someone recognize your work as worthwhile. I have won several writing contests and been awarded three Ontario arts Council grants for novels in progress.
What’s your earliest memory of drawing or writing? I can’t remember writing my first story but I can remember creating it. I was a puppet fanatic and used to entertain other neighborhood children with my shows on the back step. Thirty years later I met one of my previous audience members and the first thing she mentioned was how much she had loved those little plays.
What children’s book contains your favorite illustrations? There are far too many wonderful illustrated books to pick just one: Zen Shorts, The Complete Adventures of Peter Rabbit, The Dragons Are Singing Tonight, Peppe the Lamplighter, Grandfathers Journey, The Eleventh Hour and more.
What is your favorite children’s book? This changes constantly as I become aware of new books. I do have a soft spot for The Jolly Postman or Other Peoples Letters by Janet and Allan Ahlberg.
The Amida Tree interior illustration by Bonnie Ferrante.
Which artists or writers most influenced or inspired your work? Eric Carle, Graeme Base, Beatrix Potter, Dick Bruna, Ezra Jack Keats, Maurice Sendak, C. S. Lewis, E. B. White, Bill Martin Jr., Arnold Lobel, A. A. Milne, and many, many more.
Why did you decide to self-publish? I started late in life, trying to get published after I retired. Unfortunately, I don’t have enough healthy time left to wait while a manuscript circulates through publishing houses for months or even years.
Do you prefer to work digitally, by hand, or both? I used to work in acrylic and pencil crayon but since developing Parkinson’s disease, I now work digitally. It is a huge learning curve. As my tremor increases, that is also becoming more difficult. So now I’m trying out photography (which is always been a passion), in my books.
Tell us about your latest project. I have several things on the go. I switch back and forth between projects, letting them lie for a while in order to come back with fresh eyes. My newest publication is Tell Me Where: Animals and Babies. It is a collection of humorously modified photographs that teach children spatial concepts.
The Amida Tree interior illustration by Bonnie Ferrante.
Tell us 3 strange and wonderful things about you. Not much pressure there! I am a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Lay Leader. I’m a seventh generation Canadian. I love doing all needle arts and am continuing to sew and stitch in spite of my tremor.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Make time to do what you love.
What do you do to market your books? I’m not very good about this. I am on word press, twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and other social media. I do presentations at schools, libraries, and public venues.
Any advice for writers thinking about self-publishing a children’s picture book? Get it vetted by someone who is a tough critic and won’t spare your feelings before you publish. Pay someone if you have to.
Bonnie loves living in Northern Ontario, Canada even though she spends most of the long winter indoors writing. She chants, bikes, gardens, reads, stitches, volunteers, studies the Dharma, draws, photographs, plays/works on the computer, attends live theatre, enjoys being trounced in Scrabble by her husband, Fred, and is presently tackling decorating her new home. Her granddaughters keep her young. Once upon a time, she was a public grade school teacher.
*Please support my indie book business by clicking on the book covers or using the links posted in my blog to buy books and other products. This way, Amazon gives me a little commission that helps me continue the website for you and other readers. Thank you!
Contact Bonnie:
Website
My Blog
Amazon Author Page
Facebook – Author Page
Facebook – Books for Children
Twitter
LinkedIn
Goodreads
Pinterest
YouTube
Tumblr
Bev Stone – #2 on The Gittle List 2015
Bev Stone, earned the #2 spot on The Gittle List 2015 for The Red and Black Ladybug. Bev is a two-time winner; her book, They Told Us Something Wonderful Was Coming snagged the #1 spot in 2014.
How did it feel to win a spot on The Gittle List Top 10? I was elated! I thought it was quite brilliant to announce them one at a time this year. I know, I, and I’m sure many others, anxiously awaited each new day, and each time another book was announced, I thought, ‘Wow, that book sounds so great!’ Then of course I worried that mine might not make the list. I’m enormously grateful to Aviva Gittle for putting in the time and effort it takes to showcase and help all of us indie writers.
What’s you earliest memory of drawing or writing? My earliest and best memory of drawing and painting is in Ms Moscerelli’s 6th grade classroom. Teachers, please know that all the wonderful things you do have a lasting effect on your students. Ms Moscerelli loved art so her class started with an art project every morning. When it was time to put that project away and open our math books, she’d say, “everyone open your books to page ….. ; then she’d say, “Bev, you can continue with your art.” Now, I may not be great at math as a result, but she certainly made me feel very special and helped to start me on my art journey.
What children’s book contains your favorite illustrations? There are so many talented illustrators out there and so many illustrations I love. The Lion And The Mouse, by Jerry Pinkney has to be one of my recent favorites and one purchase I made from last year’s Gittle List, The Kings Dream, written by Harris Tobias and illustrated by Cathy Reene, has some beautiful illustrations.
What is your favorite color or color combination? I love blue hues. I 
usually work with a pretty small palette. Some people say they can recognize my art by the colors I use.
Why did you decide to self-publish? You know, I find self publishing very easy and a perfect fit for me. I’m very happy with the whole process because it allows me to illustrate my own stories and put out as many books as I’d like. The thought of self publishing is a little scary at first — just like anything unknown — but I’ve been publishing with Createspace for about 3 years now and they’ve made it a great experience so far.
Do you prefer to work digitally, by hand, or both? I illustrate all of my stories with watercolors on watercolor paper.
Tell us about your latest project. I always have several projects in the works. Right now I’m illustrating a children’s book I wrote called, Rumbly Grumbly, that I’m very excited about and I’m also working on a project, an anthology, which will be illustrated by my son, Calvin. That’s very special to me. He’s a great artist and a soon to be wonderful doctor. Both books should be out by Spring or early summer. All of the profits made from those books and any others go to benefit children.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? The best piece of advice I was ever given was when my daughter and son were born and friends told me to ignore all the little things that really don’t matter and spend all that precious time with my babies. That wasn’t hard to do at all! Now I can apply that to things around the house that I don’t want to do so that I can spend my time writing and illustrating instead. That works, right?
What do you do to market your books? Well….Hmmmm, I have to admit I’m not very good about marketing my books. I think I’m getting better but I have to be honest, if I could just write them and illustrate them and not worry about marketing, I’d be happy. Actually, the best thing I’ve done, is to enter my books in the The Gittle List contest. In her prompting to get the word out for all indie writers, she’s led me in directions I wouldn’t have otherwise gone, Twitter, for example. You can follow me @Bevstone13. Thanks Aviva Gittle! Also, Melissa Crane, who is in charge of media at the gallery where I show my paintings, has been amazing at getting the word out locally.
Any advice for writers thinking about self-publishing a children’s picture book? All I can say is that it’s been a wonderful experience for me, so if you’re thinking about self publishing, definitely give it a try. I would caution however, have no expectations, accept to enjoy the process and the fact that you actually succeeded in getting that book you’ve been working on in print. Yay!!! Do it. You’ll be glad you did.
Bev Stone is an artist and indie 
children’s book author. Bev started painting and drawing at an early age and was first introduced to watercolor in elementary school. Today Bev paints in both watercolor and oil and continues to write children’s books while living in the beautiful state of Idaho, overlooking the Snake River. Many of her paintings and book updates can be found on her website, www.artbybevstone.com.
You can follow Bev on Twitter: @BevStone13
Credits: All illustrations in this interview post are created and owned by Bev Stone and come from her award-wining children’s book The Red and Black Ladybug.
*Please support my indie book business by clicking on the book covers or using the links posted in my blog to buy books and other products. This way, Amazon gives me a little commission that helps me continue the website for you and other readers. Thank you!
The Gittle List Book Competition 2016 Contest Rules
- At January 30, 2016
- By Aviva Gittle
- In Contest, Gittle List, Indie Authors
- 5
Nancy O’Neill won the #1 spot on The Gittle List 2015 for “Guess What is in the Ocean?”
Please read the contest rules carefully. 99% of your questions will be answered here. For the other 1%, send an email to GittleSubmissions@gmail.com.
- Who can enter: Any self-published children’s picture book author or illustrator in the world. (Artists can submit books on behalf of the authors whose books they illustrated as long as the book meets the guidelines.)
- You must be able to pay the contest fee through PayPal. No other forms of payment will be accepted. (Learn about PayPal.)
- The book must be written in English.
- Contest is only for children’s picture books for children age 10 and under. (Up to about a 5th grade reading level. You can test this here.)
- The eBook or print book must be published and available for purchase. eBooks must be available for download from at least one major outlet such as Apple iBooks, Amazon, B&N, etc. Print books sold through a website with an obvious way to pay online (like PayPal) is acceptable.
- The book must be self-published either by you or through a publishing company you own, or a self-publishing service. Self-publishing services like CreateSpace, where they pay you royalties, but you own the rights is an example. As long as you own the rights, you are eligible.
- Not more than 1600 words. (Just the story; don’t include front / back matter in the word count.) If you’re not sure; email me.
- No word minimum. So picture-only and low word count books are fine.
- At least 8 interior illustrations / photos.
- Stories, books of poems/rhymes, educational (including ABC and counting books), and interactive books are all acceptable. As long as the target audience is 10 years old or under.
- New! You can enter TWO books per author or author team. Subsequent entries will be disqualified. You will need to submit each book separately and pay an entry fee for each submission.
- It can be published in any year (it does not have to have a publishing date in 2016) New books do not get more consideration. If it’s a great book, I don’t care if you self-published it 20 years ago.
- Digital or print books accepted. (mobi, epub, PDF, iTunes download for interactive books, but you must provide a way for me to download it for free).
- A PDF proof copy of the print book is fine. If the digital file is greater than 5MB, please use a service such as DropBox.com or Box.com to send it to GittleSubmissions@gmail.com. However, it is preferred that you compress or reduce the file size. Lower resolution PDFs are acceptable.
- IMPORTANT: Be sure to email GittleSubmissions@gmail.com so I know the print book is on its way. See below for information to include in the email. PRINT BOOKS WILL NOT BE RETURNED!
- Print submissions must be postmarked by November 15, 2016 and received by November 20, 2016. Digital submissions must be received by midnight Central Time (US) November 15, 2016. Add a day if you are outside of the USA.
- The contest is sponsored and judged by Aviva Gittle, owner of Aviva Gittle Publishing. Her decisions on the top 10 winners are final.
- Mail print books to: Aviva Gittle Publishing, 330 Rayford Road, #177, Spring, TX 77386
Whether submitting a digital or print book, be sure to send an email with the subject “Gittle List 2016” to GittleSubmissions@gmail.com. Include the following information.
- Title of book
- # of words (don’t include front / back matter in word count, this includes things like a glossary, list of characters, and the like. Just count the actual story.)
- # of interior illustrations
- Author’s name & email address.
- Your Twitter handle (e.g., @AvivaGittle)
- Link to your Facebook page (Go to the page and copy the link)
- Optionally, name of your personal publishing company.
- Illustrator’s name and email address
- Link to buy book (Important! proves the book is published.)
- Link to author’s website or bio page (such as Amazon’s author page)
- Optionally, link to illustrator’s website or bio page
- Please attach a good quality jpg or png of your book’s front cover and your publicity photo. (At least 400 x 600 pixels.)
Click HERE to Enter The Gittle List 2016! (This will take you to the PayPal page to pay the entry fee)
Contact Information:
Email: GittleSubmissions@gmail.com
Mail:
Aviva Gittle Publishing
c/o Harris
330 Rayford Road #177
Spring, TX 77386
Spread the word about The Gittle List 2016!
I’m ready to enter The Gittle List 2016!
The Gittle List is exclusively for self-published authors of children’s picture books. See 2015 Winners here.
Remember that The Gittle List is different from other contests. It’s really about indie authors supporting each other through cross-marketing. That’s why I ask that you like the Aviva Gittle Publishing Facebook page and sign up for the Aviva Gittle Newsletter. Following me on Twitter, @AvivaGittle is greatly appreciated. Really show me some love and post a link to this page on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn and any other social media you can think of! I will follow you back on Twitter, like your Facebook author page, and connect with you on LinkedIn (just send a connection request to Aviva Gittle).
The Gittle List 2015 Winners Revealed!
Here are The Gittle List Winners for 2015!
Each year, The goal of The Gittle List is to find 10 great indie children’s picture books out of the thousands self-published. There are now 30 wonderful books to choose from. Any (and all) of them will be a cherished gift for the little ones in your life. Click on the book cover or book title link to buy online. It’s quick & easy!*
Gittle List Winner #1 Guess What is in the Ocean? written by Nancy O’Neill and illustrated by children around the world
Gittle List Winner #1 Guess What is in the Ocean? by Nancy O’Neill makes the top of the Top 10 for several reasons. First and foremost, all of Ms. O’Neill’s Guess What? books are illustrated by children from around the world. Their talent never ceases to amaze me. Next, your child (and you) will learn something in every book. Finally, I love that it is a series. Ms. O’Neill earned a spot on The Gittle List 2013 for another Guess What? book. The colors in Guess What is in the Ocean? are just beautiful. Among my favorite illustrations is “The Seahorse” by 12-year-old Nicole Delfino of Rome, Italy. Ms. O’Neill writes all the books in rhyming verse. Not an easy thing to do and she does it very well. Of course, I recommend buying the Guess What? books that won spots on The Gittle List. But, guess what? The whole series would make a great gift for the little ones in your life. 😺
Gittle List Winner #2 The Red and Black Ladybug written and illustrated by Bev Stone
More of Bev Stone’s beautiful puffy clouds (from the book’s back cover)
#2 The Red and Black Ladybug written and illustrated by Bev Stone is about a ladybug who insists that any flying creature who wants to hang with her has to be red and black like she is. Told in rhyme, it is a wonderful story of how someone can lose their identity trying to fit in, but ultimately rediscover themselves. A message of self-worth (and the beauty of diversity) important for both children and adults to hear. Ms. Stone’s illustrations never disappoint. She has a style all her own with colors that are both soothing and mesmerizing. Ms. Stone won the #1 slot in The Gittle List 2014. She proves again with The Red and Black Ladybug why her books deserve to be in the Top 10 — of any list. 😺
Interior illustration by Bonnie Ferrante
Gittle List Winner #3 The Amida Tree written and illustrated by Bonnie Ferrante
#3 The Amida Tree written and illustrated by Bonnie Ferrante is the author’s answer to The Giving Tree. Ms. Ferrante explains it best in a comment she wrote about the famous and beloved book by Shel Silverstein: “As a teacher, seeing other teachers espouse The Giving Tree as a story of love, I was appalled. Love doesn’t enable the other person to remain emotionally stunted and environmentally destructive. When I retired, I wrote an alternate story called The Amida Tree. (Amida is the symbol of Infinite Compassion and Eternal Wisdom.) To live a happy, fulfilled life, both wisdom and compassion are needed in balance. The boy didn’t live a happy life.” I had never read The Giving Tree so I bought a copy. The Amida Tree stands on its own as an important and captivating children’s book. But, reading it in the context of the author’s comments, and in contrast to Shel Silverstein’s book, made the experience deeper. Your thoughts? Should you read both books (which I highly recommend), please leave your comments here. 😺
Gittle List Winner #4 You Talk Funny Too written by Lee Coulter; illustrated by Simone Wolowiec
Illustration by Simone Wolowiec
#4 You Talk Funny Too written by Lee Coulter and illustrated by Simone Wolowiec reminds everyone that everyone has an accent. So, when you think someone from another country “talks funny” remember that you sound pretty funny to them, too! Lee Coulter wraps the message in humor in this rhyming story. Ms. Wolowiec’s illustrations add to the learning experience by showing all manner of folk from around the world in colorful outfits and surroundings. You Talk Funny Too has a glossary of flags and a map highlighting all the countries represented in the book. You and your child will have a lot of fun and learn a bit about the world, too!
Gittle List Winner #5 Have You Ever? written and illustrated by Cotey Gallagher
Interior illustration by Cotey Gallagher
#5 Have You Ever? written and illustrated by Cotey Gallagher is a book of alliterative verse meant to introduce children to grammar concepts and advanced vocabulary. What it really does is make you laugh. A lot. Kids are guaranteed to get a kick out of Ms. Gallagher’s illustrations. Colorful, unique, and fun. I’ve posted one of my favorites, the soda-sipping salamander sporting roller skates. Don’t worry if you, I mean your child, doesn’t know some of the words. A glossary is provided. Have You Ever? also has a couple of activity pages so the reader can create his or her own alliteration and draw a picture of it. Personally, I think it’s good for kids to be exposed to vocabulary words beyond their current reading level or comprehension. After all, that’s how they learn. 😺
Gittle List Winner #6 Amos Likes to Jump written by Margaret Lowder; illustrated by Ellen Davis
Interior illustration by Ellen Davis
#6 Amos Likes to Jump written by Margaret Lowder and illustrated by Ellen Davis is the first board book to win a spot on The Gittle List. Amos is a dog who believes that he is quite famous for his jumping abilities. Children will adore the cape-toting, sneaker-wearing, furry hero. I love that Amos is an adult dog (any puppy can be cute). The artist, Ellen Davis, hilariously captures Amos’ joy for jumping. The story, told in rhyming verse, is funny and imaginative. I loved the illustrations — especially the one of Amos flying in the sky on the back of a big bird. Amos Likes to Jump is one of The Gittle List books that will be going to my younger grandson for the holidays. Maybe a pair of sneakers and a cape, too. 😺
Gittle List Winner #7 No Birthday for Mara written by Mariana Llanos; illustrated by Julián Galván
Interior illustration by Julián Galván
#7 No Birthday for Mara written by Mariana Llanos and illustrated by Julián Galván is the story of a little girl who becomes convinced that everyone has forgotten her birthday. And Mara was counting on her parents giving her a polka-dotted baby elephant as her gift this year! Ms. Llanos is on a Gittle List winning streak — this is her third win in three years. No Birthday for Mara has lots of humor and Julián Galván’s illustrations bring it to life. Ms. Llanos follows the story with a serious discussion about feelings. This is a great opportunity for adults to talk with the little ones in their life about anger, sadness — the full range of human emotions that can be challenging for some children to understand and deal with. There are also a few activity pages and a coloring page. No Birthday for Mara is also available in Spanish (Mara sin Cumpleaños).
Gittle List Winner #8 Sleep Sweet by Julianne DiBlasi Black
Interior illustration by Julianne DiBlasi Black
#8 Sleep Sweet written and illustrated by Julianne DiBlasi Black is the ultimate bedtime story. It feels like it is wrapping the reader in fairy dust. Ms. Black is a talented artist, but she matches her dreamy illustrations with sweet poetry about where other creatures and natural entities sleep and what they dream about. Wondering whether mountains, “sleep under starry skies and dream of faraway places” will stir the imagination of any child — and many adults. There is an application that will allow the reader to view the pictures in 3D. Perhaps I’m old school, but I feel the technology is not necessary. All the wonder comes from the words and illustrations that Ms. Black created. Rather than holding up an iPhone to view the pages, put your arm around your child and lull her to sweet dreamland by reading Sleep Sweet to her at bedtime. 😺
Gittle List Winner #9 Grammy’s Rockin’ Color Rap-a-licious Rap by Rhonda Paglia; illustrated by Nicole Resele
Interior illustration by Nicole Resele
#9 Grammy’s Rockin’ Color Rap-a-licious Rap, written by Rhonda Paglia and illustrated by Nicole Resele, is a fun way to teach children colors. Actually, it’s an hilarious way that the adults will enjoy as much as the kids. Indie author Rhonda Paglia starts off by teaching you the “BOOM Shee-boom-boom” beat. This should be especially fun for grandparents reading to their grandchildren. Nothing looks sillier to a 4-year-old than their granny or grampy “shee-boom-booming” their way through a book. Be sure to add a little shoulder shakin’ and pump up the volume. The learning continues with activities that ask children to “help grammy” by, for example, circling all the red things they see in a picture or matching all the rhyming pictures and words. Artist Nicole Resele clearly had a lot of fun creating grammy’s colorful outfits. A big step up from the standard (and boring) “yellow banana” “purple grape” books. A perfectly fine way to teach kids their colors, but not nearly as entertaining as Grammy’s Rockin’ Color Rap-a-licious Rap. 😺
Interior illustration by Kajiah Jacobs.
Gittle List Winner #10 Going to the Park by Elizabeth Gorcey, illustrated by Kajiah Jacobs
#10: Going to the Park written by Elizabeth Gorcey and illustrated by Kajiah Jacobs is the story of a little girl named Liv and her best friend (and dog) Bowie. It’s written the way a little girl would describe her life to anyone who might listen. And that’s the problem; Liv’s parents are often too busy to listen. Until one day Liv dresses up in grown-up clothes and declares that she won’t be the kind of adult who spends her days on a computer and a cell phone. Parents are you listening? Kajiah’s drawings are mostly muted colors so the pink, Liv’s favorite color, pops off of every page. Going to the Park is hard cover with high quality paper and end paper that the artist filled with adorable little illustrations. Most self-publishers can’t afford to have their book printed in this way. A rare and wonderful treat for children’s book collectors like myself. 😺
Have you self-published a great children’s picture book?
See The Gittle List 2015 Winners
See The Gittle List 2013 Winners
*Please support my indie book business by clicking on the book covers or using the links posted in my blog to buy books and other products. This way, Amazon gives me a little commission that helps me continue the website for you and other readers. Thank you!
Aviva Gittle writes and publishes children’s stories in English and Spanish. Her books are filled with beautiful illustrations from artists around the world. You can now order prints and mugs from all of the Kitten and Friends books, Nana books, and more! Each year, Aviva runs The Gittle List contest to support her fellow indie authors. Oh, she also loves children’s picture books and is always on the lookout for great ones. The 2016 Gittle List submission guidelines are due out in January. Follow @AvivaGittle and signup for Gittle News (look right) to be the first to know when they are posted! 😺
A Rockin’ Journey for Two Former School Teachers
Since this article was published, Rhonda Paglia’s entry, Grammy’s Rockin’ Color Rap-a-licious Rap won the #9 spot on The Gittle List 2015!
“Marketing is not my strength. Actually, I feel like a marketing disaster!”
– Rhonda Paglia, Indie Author
Rhonda Paglia and Rosie Russell each turned their passion for teaching children how to read into a career in children’s book writing and publishing. This year, they both entered The Gittle List, a contest exclusively for writers just like them — independent authors who publish their own children’s picture books.
“I love being the creator of my books – from start to finish, from writing to publishing, from cover to cover. I especially love the layout and design process – it’s fun for me,” says Rhonda, a former elementary school teacher.
This is Rhonda’s second attempt at earning a spot on the coveted “Gittle List.” Each year Aviva Gittle, owner of Aviva Gittle Publishing, selects 10 great self-published children’s picture books to promote at the holiday season. Rhonda is hoping that her book Grammy’s Rockin’ Color Rap-a-licious Rap: Teaching Kids Colors will earn a spot on this year’s Top 10 list.
Even though Rhonda didn’t win last year with Three Little Gnomes and a Boy Named Orion, she says, “I learned so much from [last year’s] contest winners’ books. I feel the same way about this year’s contest. I can enter, look at the winners, and then try to ‘kick up my game.’ I’m just happy to participate, have fun, and learn. So – I’m back! “
Rhonda told her fellow indie children’s book author and friend Rosie Russell about The Gittle List contest. Rosie taught children in elementary and middle schools for 15 years before becoming an author full-time. “It sounded like a fun contest and I was especially pleased that it was [exclusively] for indie authors,” she says.
“Helping students learn how to read; introducing them to the love of reading, was rewarding,” says Rosie. She has already published several books, but this is her first contest. She decided to enter Beasley’s Journey, about the adventures of a dog trying to find his way back home.
Both authors find marketing the hardest part of self-publishing. Winning The Gittle List contest will give them free book promotion. Rhonda admits, “Marketing is not my strength. Actually, I feel like a marketing disaster! I tweet, I blog, I have a website, I have a little newsletter, and I’m on LinkedIn and Facebook, yet I feel so clumsy at all of these.”
Aviva is rooting for both authors to make it on The Gittle List Top 10 for 2015. She says, “I know there are many authors who have put their heart and soul into creating wonderful children’s books. My mission is to find them and present them to readers around the world.”
Despite the challenges of marketing, Rhonda and Rosie agree that their decision to independently publish their own books was the right choice. Rhonda says, “I love the freedom I have to be unfettered and to present a book in whatever way I want.”
It’s been a rockin’ journey for Rhonda Paglia and Rosie Russell. Rosie sums it up best, “I enjoy it and I’m learning new things everyday.” Just like their former students.
Update: Rhonda did win a spot in the Top 10! The Gittle List 2015 winners are posted here. Winners are still being revealed (one per day starting 11/21/15); check back to see if Rosie also wins a spot on The Gittle List!
The Gittle List contest accepts print books and eBooks. The competition is open to self-published authors around the world. The 2016 submission guidelines are here.
Originally published on PRLog.com.
Aviva Gittle Publishing offers great stories for children in English and Spanish, including the Kitten and Friends / Gatito y amigos series. Aviva’s website, www.GoToGittle.com shares the stories of authors, illustrators and others who create books and creative media for children.Harris Tobias: #3 on The Gittle List 2014
- At January 17, 2015
- By Aviva Gittle
- In Author, Feature, Gittle List, Indie Authors
- 6
Author Harris Tobias won the #3 spot on The Gittle List Top 10 2014 for his book, The King’s Dream: A Fairy Tale. (See Aviva’s review and the other winners here.) The amazing illustrations were done by Cathy-Reene. Learn more about Cathy and her work here.
**Special treat for you at the end of this article!
How did it feel to win a spot on The Gittle List Top 10? This is my first award. It feel great to get some recognition. Self publishers tend to get lost in the deluge of new books getting published.
How did you hear about The Gittle List and why did you decide to enter your book? I stumbled on the Gittle List on LinkedIn. I liked that it was for self published books and that it was free.
What’s you earliest memory of writing? I have been writing since elementary school I saw writing and storytelling as my one talent. Now that I am retired, I have the time to devote to it without the distractions of having to earn a living.
From The King’s Dream, #3 on The Gittle List 2014.
What is your favorite children’s book? I used to read Maurice Sendak’s books to my children. Where The Wild Things Are has all the right elements to capture a kid’s imagination and his illustrations are perfect.
What was the inspiration for your The King’s Dream? I like making up fairy tales to tell my grandchildren. I have written many of them, but, unless they are illustrated, they don’t have much impact on a child’s mind.
Did you have to overcome any obstacles to completing the book and getting it published? I don’t draw well enough to make a story come alive. I offered The King’s Dream to Cathy-Reene and she liked the story enough to do the hard work of bringing it to life. She actually edited the story and laid out the pages. She was brilliant and a pleasure to work with.
Tell us about your latest project. I have 25 children’s books and animations in the works. I have developed a method of engaging illustrators, signing them up to a story and working with them to make a book. I get my books printed by CreateSpace and listed on Kindle as eBooks. If a book sells, I split the royalties with the artist evenly. It doesn’t always result in a book as beautiful as The King’s Dream but I am always blown away by just how much talent there is out there.
Tell us 3 strange and wonderful things about you.
- I am endlessly optimistic
- I have written 65 books
- I love to collaborate with talented people
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t listen to advice.
Harris Tobias was raised by robots disguised as New Yorkers. Despite an awkward 
childhood he learned to read and write. To date Mr. Tobias has published two detective novels, The Greer Agency and A Felony of Birds, to critical acclaim. In addition he has published dozens of short stories. He is the author of many children’s books including At The Robot Zoo, MoonRivet Saves His Skin and An Alphabet Book of Bugs available on Nook & Kindle.
Contact Harris:
*Please support my indie book business by clicking on the book covers or using the links posted in my blog to buy books and other products. This way, Amazon gives me a little commission that helps me continue the website for you and other readers. Thank you!
**Harris exclusively shared two unpublished stories on Gittle. Check them out here.
