This month–or at least after all the SCBWI doings–I caught up with a Writing in Rhyme class I won from Angie Karcher. Goodness, Angie really knows her stuff!
I, on the other hand, am not exactly a whiz at writing rhyme (though I like to try). I only have one picture book that’s in rhyme but I learned a whole bunch of stuff to make it better and my project for next month is to take that manuscript and polish it till it shines like a…a…well, see? I need a little work on imagery and such.
And maybe you’re interested in spiffing up a rhyming picture book. Or maybe you’re just interested in rhyming poetry. Boy, have I got a deal for you!
Technically, it’s not my deal. It’s Angie Karcher’s. Every April, she hosts RhyPiBoMo which is short for Rhyming Picture Book Month and holy moly (see what I did there?), you are not going to believe all the wonderful guest bloggers she’s scheduled!
Plus, she has all kinds of fun events and doings over there. And it’s ALL free! But mostly, I guarantee that you’ll learn a TON about rhyming picture books. So run like a Tasmanian Devil (see? I’m getting smarter already!) and register for RhyPiBoMo! (See you there!)
Cathy C. Hall Writes 
Great post about Angie’s course and RhyPiBoMo! I have done both 🙂 I’m not a rhymer, but the techniques are wonderful for keeping that lyrical language flowing in my writing. I’ll see you there, Cathy!
Oh, that’s so true, Charlotte! Helps develop your ear for that kind of language, and honestly, whatever you write, lyrical prose is nice to read!
Cathy, you rhymer you!
Thanks SO much for your kind words and generous plug!!!
Im glad the class has been helpful. See you at RhyPiBoMo!
Hugs!!! Angie
You’re very welcome, Angie! Yep, you’ll see me, dragging up the rear, I’m sure. 🙂
Hi Cathy, Thanks so much for this post. I have a rhyming picture book manuscript and have started working on illustrations. My question is, what to do with it when I’m finished? !!! I’m sure you’ve been told that agents, editors, and publishers won’t ever consider even looking at rhyming picture books. I’ve been told that time and again. And as a published poet and an experienced editor, I’m pretty sure this particular rhyming story is just about as tight and perfect as it can get. What I really need is referral to an agent or publisher. I’ve been a member of SCBWI since the late 1980s, and I think I have never failed to fall through the cracks. Is it possible to be a member and never get anywhere? I’ve had one adult novel and lots of short stories and poetry published, but I need to have my children’s picture books given serious consideration by someone. After all these years, I just don’t think another class or another critique group is what I need at this point. I’m finishing up my second adult/YA novel, and when I get it wrapped up, I will probably self publish several of my picture books if I can’t make contact with an agent of publisher.
Thanks for listening to my rant.
Ramey Channell
Oh, Ramey, it CAN be frustrating, I know! Have you attended any of the SCBWI conferences and had a critique or one-on-one with an agent or editor? It sounds to me like a one-on-one (which is not necessarily a manuscript critique) would be of great value to you! You are guaranteed an agent (or editor, depending on who is doing the one-on-ones) and twenty minutes to discuss your career. Please consider attending the next SCBWI conference in your region and getting a one-on-one. I’d love to know if it helps!
*rolling eyes* You are a GREAT rhymer! You know all the rhyming tricks, and your rhymes are worthy of being read aloud—and that’s saying something. 🙂