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.