Please share your exciting news (agent signing, book sale, etc)
I’m excited to share my agent is Miranda Paul of the Erin Murphy Literary Agency and that my first book titled, Planting Hope: A Portrait of Photographer Sebastião Salgado will be published by Atheneum in the summer of 2021!
How long have you been writing/pursuing an agent/publishing deal?
I began taking classes at The Writing Barn in January of 2016 with Bethany Hegedus and Carmen Oliver. My first manuscript (not the one being published) was one I wrote 15 years prior.
What fears/hopes did you have before working with Bethany privately? Or participating in WSS or a WB class/intensive?
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I took my first class as I didn’t write professionally. Would I be accepted? Could I do this? Only one way to find out. Dive in!
How did the WB programming aid you in both the craft and business of picture book writing?
Having very little prior knowledge about the craft of writing picture books, the WB classes helped me develop an eye for and an understanding of the picture book form. WB classes included extensive study of books already in print that helped me to internalize the various way stories can be told. And, it was in class that I met my critique group. Later, The Writing Barn programming helped me get started in the world of picture book biographies.
As for the business of writing, The Writing Barn classes included information on what is being acquired right now and why, further resources for learning about the industry and some pointers on industry expectations and etiquette.
How did the atmosphere of The Writing Barn aid you in achieving this goal?
The Writing Barn atmosphere is incredible! The staff and writers are all so open, supportive and respectful. The focus at The Writing Barn is on taking writers where they are at and then building from there. Very professional and non-intimidating.
What is a takeaway you will carry with you far beyond this good news as you continue to build an develop your career?
We are part of a kind and supportive community. Enjoy being around such wonderful and interesting people. We have hit the jackpot.
Any advice you have for writers/creatives having trouble staying the course in pursuing their goals?
The publishing industry can be a long and drawn out process. Put an emphasis on your writing and make it a priority but don’t let it become the only thing in your universe. It is a part of your universe. Enjoy the other parts of what makes you, you. I believe that positive energy will feed your writing.
Philip Hoelzel was born and raised in the Chicago, Illinois area but has called Austin, Texas home for more than 15 years. His interests are varied and include recreating outdoors, watching baseball and playing Brazilian percussion instruments. When Philip isn’t working he can be found writing children’s picture book manuscripts, a skill he honed studying at The Writing Barn. Philip can be found on Twitter @CotopaxiPhil.
I am so happy for you, Phil! What a pleasure to see this story grow.