We’re back with another success story, and this time it’s Kari Lavelle, a local Austin author who’s just signed with agent Elizabeth Bennett (yes, that’s her real name!) at Transatlantic Agency. Hearing about Kari’s success gives us the warm and fuzzies– hope you enjoy it as well!
Please share your exciting news (agent signing, book sale, etc)
I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I signed with Elizabeth Bennett at Transatlantic Agency!
How did studying/retreating at The Writing Barn support you in achieving this goal? What workshop/intensives/or classes have you taken with us?
I have gained so much from Writing Barn classes, both online and in person. I’ve attended nonfiction courses by Cynthia Levinson and Donna Jannell Bowman and two Picture Book Intensive weekends. I also enrolled in the online Perfecting the Picture Book 1 course with Bethany. Not only did I benefit from the content of the workshops but I also discovered a network of friends that have supported me on this writing journey. I also participated in a Write Away Day which helped me finish the first draft of a manuscript that now, two years later, is out on submission.
How long have you been writing/pursuing an agent/publishing deal?
I have had the dream of having my work published since college (which was 20 years ago…) but I didn’t actually start putting the time into writing until shortly after my daughter was born, which was about 9 years ago.
What fears/hopes did you have before the event?
Before my first PB Intensive, I wavered between fear that my critiquer (Ariel Richardson of Chronicle books) would tell me to give up writing immediately and the hope that she would present me with a contract on the spot. Of course, neither of those things happened! This industry is full of highs and lows and I am learning how to ride the waves.
How did the atmosphere of The Writing Barn aid you in achieving this goal?
It’s such a treat to be immersed in a space that is completely devoted to the craft of creating books.
Have you made friendships/colleagues as well? How has that supported you?
Yes! It’s become a network of friends that I continue to keep up with online or at SCBWI gatherings. It’s been exciting to watch others as they grow as writers and find their own success.
Why do you think attending workshops/classes is important to writers at all stages of their career?
It’s essential that I continue to learn, no matter where I am on this journey.
What is a takeaway you will carry with you far beyond this good news as you continue to build and develop your career?
Just as the stories of our manuscripts unfold, our own narrative is unfolding as well– and it wasn’t as predictable as I thought it would be!
Any advice you have for writers/creatives having trouble staying the course in pursuing their goals?
Butt-In-Chair is a tried & true strategy for me!
More about Kari:
Kari Lavelle writes both nonfiction and fiction for kids. She is also a speech pathologist and specializes in treating children who stutter. When she’s not playing with words, she enjoys exploring the city and spending time outdoors with her family.
Kari lives in Austin with her husband, their two children and their lab mix.
Follow Kari on Twitter at karip8 or Instagram at karilavellewrites.