We are so excited for CTCer and Writing Barn student Christina Paschyn who is celebrating signing with Saba Sulaiman at Talcott Notch! Christina is a picture book and YA author who also creates award-winning documentaries. Hear what she had to say about her journey…
How long have you been writing/pursuing an agent/publishing deal?
From 2017 to 2024, I took numerous writing classes, including four rounds of the Writing Barn’s WSS program. I started querying my PB manuscripts in 2022.
What fears/hopes did you have before working with Bethany privately or taking a Writing Barn class?
That my writing would never be good enough to land an agent or publishing deal, and that my ideas were too “out there.”
How did the WB programming aid you in both the craft and business of picture book writing?
The WSS program helped me realize that this wasn’t the case and that my stories are worthy of being published. But more importantly, the instructors and program helped me to polish and perfect my craft, bringing my writing to a totally new level.
What Writing Barn class(es) or other programs (WSS, CTC, VERGE, etc.) have you participated in?
WSS (four rounds), as well as several one-off seminars and replays. I’m also a member of the Courage to Create.
What is a takeaway you will carry with you far beyond this good news as you continue to build and develop your career?
Making it in the publishing industry truly takes perseverance. You must keep believing that your yes is around the corner—because it is.
Any advice you have for writers/creatives having trouble staying the course in pursuing their goals?
Querying can be so tedious and time-consuming, but if you truly believe in your stories and put in the work to elevate your craft, you will succeed. More often than not, it takes authors several years to get their yes—but that’s how this industry operates. Keep going!
About Christina Paschyn
Christina is a picture book and YA writer. She is also a journalist, professor, documentary filmmaker, and mother of two children.