Plagiarism Hits Home

Colorful Illustrations 93º C     We’ve just learned that my husband’s work, along with the work of dozens of other illustrators, has been stolen. The art, along with many interviews painstakingly conducted by art advocate Darren Di Lieto of The Little Chimp Society, have been printed in a book, apparently out of China.

     PLEASE DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK. None of the creators was paid, nor did they give permissions, nor did they even know of the book’s existence before now.

     We are in the process of learning more. Darren’s blog and ours will have updates.

Whistling in the Library

Whistling in the Dark     New York Times Bestselling Author Lesley Kagen had everyone at the Whitefish Bay Library Center laughing, as she talked off the cuff about her life and the publishing process. Kagen is the author of Whistling in the Dark, pictured here. She, along with H. W. Schwartz Bookshops’ General Manager Daniel Goldin, spoke of the steps from an author’s initial idea for a book all the way through to seeing the final product on the shelf. We even peaked at a bound galley of her upcoming book, Land of a Hundred Wonders, which has a release date of late summer.

     Kagen and Goldin were both entertaining speakers. They offered interesting stories on how various books came to publication, how much (or little) a publisher might support a book, how authors handle requested changes, and how some characters get their unique traits. Kagen revealed that one of her character’s personality quirks are based on typical symptoms of menopause, an unexpected insight that delighted the audience. Goldin offered inspiring tales of a manuscript’s fight to the top of the slush pile and into the spotlight.

     It was a great talk, and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting them both.

Talking Books

     There is nothing like spending time with other writers and illustrators to renew your love of books. My husband and I got to do just that Saturday, when we had the pleasure of attending the spring luncheon of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators – Wisconsin.

     Sarah Cloots, the featured guest and an editor with Greenwillow Books, spoke of key moments in the evolution of a book, from early manuscript to finished product. Her photos showing the inside workings at Greenwillow were a great visual accompaniment.

     Authors Eileen Lucas and Anne Bingham made wonderful dining companions, as did new writer Juliette Crane. We appreciated their insight and fun natures. It was great to finally meet Regional Advisor Pam Beres, Authors Peggy Tromblay and Lisa Albert, Illustrator Bonnie Leick, “With Wings and a Halo” Executive Director Paul Gilbertson, and a great many other established and new authors and illustrators, all friendly and willing to freely share of their knowledge.

     Congratulations to SCBWI Golden Kite Nonfiction Winner Ann Bausum and Illustration Contest Winner Deb Gross. Their awards were just two of the many happy announcements made by members.

     We greatly enjoyed ourselves and look forward to seeing these great people again at other SCBWI events.

CG Honors

Miracola_Wrestler     I am pleased as can be to tell you that my husband’s artwork has received another honor. The Society of Digital Artists is highlighting his work as the Society’s Featured Portfolio. Once there, click on the wrestler to see more of his work, or you can check out Jeff’s other work by going directly to his website.

     This is a great honor because CGSociety is the most respected global organization for digital artists and is frequented by the top names and companies in the industry. Being singled out by the CGSociety says a lot because of the high caliber of work seen throughout its community. Jeff’s been honored there before, twice achieving CGChoice Awards.

     If you wonder where he gets his inspiration, it’s all me. I drive him nuts, and his only salvation is through crazy art.

A Thrilling Announcement

Monster Isle     When you venture into something new, it’s usually pretty exciting, especially when you have some success. We here are pretty excited to announce that my husband’s first children’s book has been announced and is available for pre-order. Yeah for him!

     Although he’s been designing and creating art for many years and has already been published in many different publications and media, Jeff’s always had a desire to illustrate children’s books. I’m so happy to see his dream fulfilled. Great job, Hon!

     Here’s a look at Welcome to Monster Isle. If you’re feeling generous and want to get a fun book for a child in your life, please go ahead and pre-order. You’ll get it just in time for Halloween.

Making Changes

Silvia Acevedo Caricature      An understanding friend recently quoted Vincent Van Gogh to me, saying, “What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?”

     After five great years of working at WTMJ, I’ve stepped down. Sunday, March 9th, was my final day, and what a send-off it’s been. Friday, many of my colleagues gathered at Bar Louie to wish me well, and, Sunday, the weekenders had a sneaky little party planned. I should have expected it because they’re uncommonly generous. Many people signed around the superb caricature that station artist Nick created of me, at right, and Shelley Walcott was her usual sweet self, writing about the day:

Goodbye Silvia Acevedo

     Leaving such a group of caring and awesomely talented people was a very difficult decision. At heart, I’m a writer and journalist, and have been immersed in that world for so long, that I find it difficult to say that I wouldn’t ever return to it in one form or another. For now, though, I have a unique opportunity in my life to focus on other things which also mean a great deal to me.

     Thanks, everyone, for everything.

Copyright © Silvia Acevedo. All rights reserved.