Breezers Making Waves

“These are my first publications, so it feels extremely exciting and satisfying.”

This month’s Breezer Making Waves is Sharon Pegram, a writer who after 15 years has several publishing agreements now in the works. Sharon’s secret? One heaping cup of perseverance and a splash of supportive friends. Dive deeper with us as Sharon details this incredible moment and offers her advice to fellow Breezers like you.

Hi Sharon. What are we celebrating with you?

My nonfiction article "Tarantulas and their Tiny Frog Roommates" is going to be published in The School Magazine of Australia; My poems "Whale Shark" and "Snow Leopard" are going to be published in Little Thoughts Press's "Go Wild" issue; and I've just been accepted to write a Cover-to-Cover series book for Reading Partners literacy nonprofit.

Congratulations! What does this opportunity mean to you?

I've been writing for children and a member of SCBWI for over 15 years, and these are my first publications, so it feels extremely exciting and satisfying.

What do you feel led you to this place on your journey?

Perseverance (obviously), but just as much my wonderful, encouraging community of writing friends. Each of these publications is a direct result of a friend sharing information about the opportunity. Also, all those years of immersing myself in craft and industry education and, finally, not letting my inner critic prevent me from submitting.    

Do you have any advice for Breezers who want to achieve something similar?

Get involved and make friends. Learn all you can about craft and publishing. Wait for the gatekeepers to tell you "no" instead of saying it to yourself before you've put your work out there.

Send your warmest wishes to Sharon on:

Instagram: @sharonspegram

Twitter: @SharonPegram1 

Website: www.grimreaderediting.com

Are you making a splash on your creative journey? 

Big or small, we want to celebrate your recent success! Visit bit.ly/breezerspotlight to submit for a full-length interview or a brief mention in an upcoming spotlight.