Looking Ahead

Over the past year I’ve been immersed in writing new work, much of it now with my agent. Since I’m about 90% retired, I’ve become far more prolific than I ever was before. I used to squeeze writing into whatever time I could find; now I can set aside dedicated hours each day simply to write, and it feels wonderful.

I’m currently working across middle-grade fiction, chapter books, and picture books, and I love the variety. While my agent is reviewing one manuscript, I jump back into another, polishing it until we all feel it’s ready to submit.

I’ve also come to appreciate just how powerful rewriting can be. Of course, I never enjoy negative feedback when it first arrives—who does?—but after a few days and a second read, I usually see exactly how those notes will make the story stronger.

Here’s hoping we all have a very busy and productive 2026!