THE EDUCATIONAL MARKET:

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR LYN SIROTA

1. What attracted you to the idea of writing children's books for the educational publishing marketplace?  (Tell me any and all factors in your decision…creative, financial, etc.). While attending the Institute of Children's Literature, I was told through my readings that there were many opportunities for non-fiction authors and that swayed me just a little as I tried to figure out what type of writing was best and natural for me. It was trial and error to figure out where my talents were best suited. However, even though I am a much better non-fiction writer, I still write fiction and I never give up trying to hone that talent as well.

2. How did you make your initial contact with educational publishers?  (Referral from another writer, editor contact at conference, cold call by email or phone, etc.). I was referred by another writer. It was my "foot in the door" so to speak. That publisher was relatively large and word got out about me and I was able to get more work. It is still a challenge to find work now, but once I "show my stuff" the editor becomes a repeat customer and often refers me to other colleagues.

3. What materials were you asked to submit  to publishers before getting a contract?  (writing samples, project proposal, book outlines, etc.) Initially, I was asked to submit clips. Typically I'll send my writing resume, a few clips and an introductory letter.

4. What publishers have you worked with so far and on what type of books?(Be sure to give me title and publisher for your latest books so they can be included.  If there's a series that your work is in, make sure to mention this, too.). I have done work for Pearson Education, Capstone Press, Compass Point Books, Little Fox, Science Weekly [all age levels from pre-K to 6^th grade] and Next Step Magazine where I did a series of articles about Careers.

5. From a creative standpoint, how is writing for this type of publisher different from writing projects for the traditional trade publisher?  For me, much more efficient and streamlined. I like having a firm deadline, a contract and an editor to consult from the get-go.

6. From the publishing process standpoint, how is this route to publication different from traditional trade publishing?  (Do you have more or less input on layout or illustration choices, is it faster or slower to finished book, etc.) I think it is much faster since you don't have to seek out a publisher for your work and then market it to them. In essence, you have a customer already and you just have to keep them happy. I've had a lot of input into the illustrations and on one occasion, the editor put a picture in a piece that was almost an exact look alike of my own dog. She got to know me pretty well.

7. Personally, what do you find is the best thing about writing for this market?

8. Conversely, what is the worst thing about writing for this market?

9. What is your best piece of advice for other writers wanting to try this type of book-writing experience? Find at least one really good in person critique group and possibly a second that is online. Also read as many non-fiction books or articles that you can get your hands on and examine the variety of styles in which people present information. Then see what is comfortable and natural for you. Also, join SCBWI and attend as many conferences as possible and network with other authors.

10. Where can readers find out more about your books?