[LaurenN0227 Posts: 17 Status: Offline #amwriting]

I'm trying to get back into writing after a baby hiatus and am finding that I've been inspired to write PBs in different styles. I'm wondering how this would relate to ultimately landing an agent, since most in this area seem to want several PBs ready when you submit. By way of example: I would say Bob Shea books tend to be humorous, while Nancy Tillman books are soft and sweet. What if you're a writer who writes books like Bob and Nancy? Should you focus on one "style" to the exclusion of others so that you have a cohesive voice when you approach agents? Do agents want one style from their authors, or do they expect authors to have various types of PBs?

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

[JodyJS Posts: 1,246 Status: Offline Preorder now! Out April 2021! WWW]

Hi Lauren,

My .02 are to write in whatever style suits you. No need to be consistent. Different editors and different houses have different tastes and needs, same with agents. I write sweet and wacky fiction and traditional and contemporary nonfiction. I say do it all if you can!

Jody

[JulieM Posts: 834 Status: Offline WWW]

FWIW, I write in different styles and hope to place differently styled books with different editors and houses. I'm still working on that though!

[Stephanie Shaw Posts: 186 Status: Offline WWW]

There's a reason my bio says I write 'quiet to quirky --- poetry and prose'.  I've been able to publish in various styles. That said, I think if I were to hit on one that screamed 'series!' I'd develop more in one particular style.  But, for now I love writing in different styles. Write what makes you happy! And, congratulations on that very lovely reason for your hiatus! Welcome back!

[DianaM Posts: 969 Status: Offline Writer, rhymer, runner, punner. WWW]

I think it's fine. Personally, I write humorous, character-driven stories but also quieter, lyrical stories. I've sold both. In terms of the creative aspect, I enjoy writing different kinds of stories. Keeps it fresh.

Welcome back!! Happy writing...

[Betsy Posts: 2,123 Status: Offline PICKY EATERS WWW]

There was a time when you were expected to write just one kind of book (have a "brand"). But that's breaking down now. I write rhyming pbs, science nonfiction, biographies, lift-the-flap, concept books, historical--all picture books. So go for it.

[Schriscoe Posts: 1,803 Status: Offline www.sharonchriscoebooks.com WWW]

Congrats on the baby and welcome back to writing!

I also write and have been published in various styles. My current book is a folklore whereas my upcoming book is a bedtime rhyme. And I write MG. So, write what you want to write and what makes you happy.

[LaurenN0227 Posts: 17 Status: Offline #amwriting]

Thank you all so much for your input. One of the first stories I've been inspired to write is very lyrical, which isn't typically where I end up. Its comforting to hear that I can wander my way around and focus on the stories that speak to me rather than maintaining a certain style/voice. (And thanks for the baby congratulations as well!)

[Jean Reidy Posts: 724 Status: Offline I love kids' books!! WWW]

Hi Lauren - I'm joining the gang that says you can mix it up. I, too, have been published in different styles - from sweet to snarky. Good luck with your writing but more importantly, enjoy that new baby.

[koozoo Posts: 84 Status: Offline Writing=Breathing! WWW]

I'm happy to hear that writers need not be boxed into one type of book. It's a refreshing attitude.

More about "write your best", and less about branding. 

[lauriew Posts: 140 Status: Offline WWW]

I think it's perfect acceptable these days to not be pigeon-holed. I write picture books that are fiction and nonfiction, poetry and prose.