I have been fortunate enough to know Judy Enderle and Stephanie Jacob Gordon for many years. I have attended their workshops, retreats and classes. Always ready and willing to lend an ear, read a manuscript or just hold your hand, these two remarkable writers practice the true spirit of the SCBWI: generosity. Having been writing partners for 30 years these gals have entertained us with many of their books. I wasn't surprised that when I received their answers to my interview questions, it was as if they were telling a story.
When and why did you both start writing for children?
After reading many many books to her kids, Judy decided she wanted to try writing one. Her first attempt was when her first son was a baby and she quickly found out she couldn't devote the time she needed to him and writing.
But after three kids where off to school, with her daughter being the last to go, she signed up for a writing class with Sue Alexander at UCLA. And that certainly wasn't "all she wrote." Stephanie's kids were also all in school and she was looking for something to do other than housework. She laughs now when she says that she thought she'd start with something easy, like children't books. She signed up for Sue Alexander's class, though not at the same time as Judy. They eventually met in the novel class taught by Eve Bunting.
What is the most valuable advice you can give to someone who wants to write for kids?
Learn your craft by writing, reading, and studying. Don't expect writing for kids to be easy. Be patient and persevere.
What is one of your favorite children’s books that you'd like to recommend? Judy has always loved The Poky Little Puppy. It still stands the test of time. Stephanie's favorite, The Princess and Curdie. If we recommended all those we've loved since, your computer would suffer overload!
What is your own favorite book that you’ve written and why? For Judy it's The Two Badd Babies. The rhythm is contageous and kids seem to enjoy and often memorize the story. Stephanie is partial to Nell Nugget and the Cow Caper with a feisty heroine who takes charge. They are in negotiation for a paperback edition of Nell. (You read it here first.)
Co-authors Judith Ross Enderle and Stephanie Jacob Gordon enjoy sharing their books, the joy of writing, and the excitement of million dollar words. They are best known for their picture book Two Badd Babies (written as Jeffie Ross Gordon) featured on PBS “Storytime.” Other publications include the award-winning Six Creepy Sheep, Hide-and-Seek Turkeys, the Scholastic short chapter book, Will Third Grade Ever End? as well as the summer ’07 picture book Smile, Principessa! Stephanie and Judy teach workshops and offer critiques-by-mail through their business, Writers Ink.
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