Creator Interview Plus a Giveaway: Bri Lawyer

Hilarious KidLit Author and Critique Partner Extraordinaire!

"I know that perseverance pays off and critique partners make good shoulders to cry on."

If you're active in the KidLit community on Twitter, chances are you've interacted with Bri at some point. She's always there to cheer on her fellow creatives and participates widely in all things kidlit.

And even if you aren't on Twitter, you probably recognize her name: Bri has received recognition in multiple contests in 2023 alone, including wins in this year's KidLit Vibes Writing Contest, Valentiny Writing Contest, Kids' Choice KidLit Writing Contest, and an honorable mention in 50 Precious Words.

Bri is a picture book author who began writing in 2020. She is currently "in the querying trenches", as the saying goes, and is actively writing and revising as she submits completed works to agents. In addition to being a talented writer of funny picture books, she's also incredibly generous and is offering a picture book manuscript OR query critique! Read through the interview for details on how to enter the giveaway!

I'm so fortunate to be able to call Bri my critique partner and friend, and I'm excited for you to get to know her, too!

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How did your journey as a KidLit creator begin?

If you would have told me four years ago that I would be writing picture books today, I wouldn't have believed you. I was too busy teaching third graders, caring for my toddler, and eagerly awaiting the arrival of baby number two. I had no time for anything else, nor did I ever aspire to be a writer. But after my daughter was born, I stopped teaching to be home with my children. That gave me time to teach preschool to my son. While doing so, I had the idea to write children's books that incorporated preschool concepts and humor to make learning fun. I started writing, attending conferences and classes, and created a critique group. About a year in, I started writing just-for-fun picture books.

It's funny comparing four-years-ago me to present me. Now I can't imagine not being a picture book author!

What is your favorite thing about creating for children?

There are so many things. I have to share two! The first is knowing that someday my stories will bring joy and laughter to children around the world. The second is all the friends I've made (and will make) along the way.

This is an industry full of high highs and low lows. What are some of the peaks and valleys you've experienced in your career?

Oh boy, is it. I've had a lot of compliments on my stories and have won some writing contests. Those are very exciting and confidence boosting. I've also gotten quite a few "passes" while querying agents that I thought were fantastic fits for me. Those can definitely be hard to take. But I'm optimistic that my "yes" is just around the corner... Or maybe five.. but nonetheless, it's there waiting for me!

Do you have a "day job"? If so, what is it, and how do you create balance between your "day job" and your work as a creator?

I don't right now, but I might go back to teaching when my daughter is in school. If I do, I will find a way to balance it all because I can't stop writing!

Describe your perfect writing/illustrating/creating day.

My husband makes fun of me for the silly places he finds me writing. It's impossible to sit comfortably and write when my household responsibilities and kids are so demanding, so I write when and where I can. For my perfect writing day, I would love for my husband to take the kids out for a fun day. Hopefully somewhere that requires them to be gone allllll day! I have the house to myself to write comfortably in an actual chair instead of the floor and not feel guilty about ignoring my usual duties.

What motivates you to keep going when this industry gets you down?

My optimism and critique partners. I know that perseverance pays off and critique partners make good shoulders to cry on.

What is a favorite craft tip you'd like to share with other creators?

Cut the fluff. If you haven't seen this video, drop what you are doing and go watch it!

What are your top 3 favorite books of all time (any age range)?

I Just Ate My Friend by Heidi McKinnon

Truck Full of Ducks by Ross Burach

That Is Not A Good Idea by Mo Willems

Who are some authors or illustrators that inspired your style as a creator?

Jan Thomas, Mo Willems, and Ross Burach

What advice do you have for someone considering starting their journey as a KidLit creator?

Join or create a critique group. The feedback and support they offer are invaluable. Second, be active in the KidLit community on Twitter. By participating in the writing contests, challenges, giveaways, etc, you will not only grow as a writer but also make connections with fellow authors and industry professionals.

Speed Round: This or That!

Let us get to know you better!

Summer or Winter?	​Summer
Chocolate or Vanilla?	Vanilla
Cats or Dogs?	Dogs
Playlists or Podcasts?	Playlists
Text or Call?	Text
Unicorn or Dragon?	Dragon
Ice Cream or Cake?	Ice Cream
Physical Books or E-Books?	Physical Books
Coffee or Tea?	Juice ;)
Sunrise or Sunset?	Sunset

It's Giveaway Time!

Bri is generously offering one lucky winner a picture book manuscript critique (non-rhyming, up to 750 words) AND query critique! To enter the giveaway, comment on this post with your name and e-mail (so we can contact you if you win!).

For extra entries in the giveaway:

• Follow Bri on Twitter

• Head over to Bri's website and subscribe to her mailing list

• Subscribe to my mailing list

You can follow Bri on Twitter @lawyerbri or find her on her website!