I've not done any work on my second book for several weeks now. This is partly due to the fact that the manuscript was away being assessed, and also because I have started a new job this month. Hence the lack of posts.

The manuscript has now arrived back, along with a report from the assessor, and I can return to the story. Vivienne (who has been looking at my story) sent me heaps of ideas and helpful comments - there's lots of work to be done!

But no matter how politely or gently it is delivered, a critique is always hard to accept. I automatically read the sections that point out potential changes and advice as negative comments. It takes several readings for me to think critically about the text and report and see that the suggestions are actually very useful.

I put the story and report away for two weeks to let the ideas marinate in the back of my mind without the pressure to rush into creating more illustrations and new text. Now there are numerous ideas taking form and I'm excited about looking at the story again with fresh eyes after my break.

I came across this image the other day and had to share it on my blog. Apparently this book fort is in the Trondheim Library in Norway. I want to go there! The only downside, is that you can't read the books.

For almost as long as I have enjoyed drawing, I've loved playing with Lego. (Note to my American friends: it is LEGO, not LEGOS.) Each of my brothers have their own treasured collection - and they are very careful not to get any of the pieces mixed up!

I stopped adding to my collection a number of years ago, but I still get a thrill from fiddling with the bricks and building new creations.

The weather has been wet, cold and bleak all week - not great for a house full of energetic boys during the school holidays, but perfect for playing with Lego. I'm pretty sure I heard the unmistakeable sound of thousands of tiny pieces being tipped out across the floor this morning.

It is very tempting to spend the day inside surrounded by Lego, letting my imagination run wild amongst the colourful bricks. But, no... there are commitments that must be met, so I will have to resist. Instead of actually playing, I will content myself with admiring creations from other Lego enthusiasts on the Brothers Brick website, who seem to have a little more time on their hands.

http://www.brothers-brick.com/page/8/

http://www.brothers-brick.com/page/2/

 

 

 

 

http://www.brothers-brick.com/page/10/