A Milestones Met Interview
Please share your exciting news (agent signing, book sale, etc.)!
My picture book Mole and Tell was released in May 2023!
How long have you been writing/pursuing an agent/publishing deal and how has the Courage to Create program/tools served you in reaching this milestone?
I started learning how to write children’s books more than a decade ago. Since joining CTC in early 2022, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the craft and business of children’s literature.
When we reach a milestone, it means we may encounter new fears and challenges, as well as joys along the journey. How has being a part of the CTC community prepared you for both enjoying the celebration of a milestone reached and the work that is next to come?
With CTC, I’ve become more mindful of my writing journey. That has helped me process what my book release means to me. At the same time, CTC has helped me manage the work after a book release. I’m grateful for the CTC Book Launch Checklists!
In the Courage to Create, we call on our Big Why as we engage in the ups and downs of the literary life? What’s your BIG WHY and how does it keep you motivated to keep working towards new milestones?
I believe that literature can do all sorts of things, from soothing aches to tickling funny bones. If one of my stories can help a child, then my hard work was worth it.
It’s not easy to keep creating courage when it comes to our literary lives. Did you ever encounter a low point or period and did you lean on any of the CTC tools or practices? What did the no/not yets, or near misses/champagne rejections teach you in hindsight not that your YES is here?
I appreciate how CTC gives me space to process feedback. Writers constantly face feedback, from critiques of drafts to reviews of books. I’m glad that I can share my thoughts and feelings about feedback in a safe place.
As we celebrate your milestone reached, what thoughts can you share with other writers who may doubt they will reach their first or next milestone?
Please don’t feel bad about rejections. A rejection is a redirection along the journey to publication.
What is your favorite Courage to Create Belief?
It takes THE TIME IT TAKES.
Catherine (Cathy) Payne is a writer born and and raised on Guam. Working there as an English instructor, she finds inspiration in her tropical surroundings. She loves to compose stories that reflect the good in the world.
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