Testimonials
Hear From Members!
The 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge has changed the trajectory of the lives and careers of many picture book creators. Hear how in this video.
“Tina Schwartz with the Purcell Agency is my agent. 12 x 12 absolutely helped me. I initially knew very little about the world of PB writing and publishing. 12 x 12 helped plug me in. I not only regularly posted my stories for critiques but I followed the Facebook group and listened to the monthly interviews with agents, etc. I think 12 x 12 is a fantastic resource that helped ground me in the picture book world.”
Leslie Piotrowski
Success Story
“I’m thrilled to say it’s Miranda Paul at Erin Murphy Literary Agency. Joining 12 x 12 was a huge pivotal point in my writing career. The connections and friendships that I have made through 12 x 12 are such an important part of my life. I have learned and grown so much in my writing career because of 12 x 12! I have a book deal that hasn’t been announced yet and another book on submission.”
Sherry Fellores
Success Story
“I signed with the fabulous Charlotte Wenger of Prospect Agency! …it was the first 12 x 12 webinar of 2020 that really helped me get my agent. Charlotte was the webinar guest and she talked about the books she represented and the ones she had acquired as an editor. I realized I had several manuscripts that would be perfect for her which really helped me tailor my future submissions. Seeing her in the webinar is also what got me so excited at the chance to have a critique with her and convinced me to take advantage of that opportunity.”
Larissa Elliot
Success Story
“My agent is Emily Forney of BookEnds Literary Agency…I heard about 12 x 12 and it intrigued me, but I told myself that I would join in 2022 when I was “more serious and committed to picture books.” But at the last moment, just as the sign-up window was closing, I thought, well, maybe joining 12 x 12 in 2021 is what will make me serious and committed. And I was right. All of a sudden I was in this warm, helpful, knowledgeable community that was passionate about PBs. I was so inspired that I completely gave myself over to PBs. It was like a wave that enveloped me and carried me forward faster than I had expected. I felt ready to query in the fall of 2021, and here I am!”
Shruthi Rao
Success Story
Play Video
Scholarship Recipient Success
More than half of 12 x 12 scholarship recipients have gone on to sign with agents and publish books. Hear about a few of their journeys in this video.
I was honored to have been awarded the 12x12 Diversity scholarship, and it literally changed my writing world. It has grounded me and taught me a lot about the industry with the amazing workshops, webinars and chats. But most importantly, it's given me hope that my voice will one day find its place in today's literary world and to not give up. Thank you, 12 x 12!
Sabrina Shah
2022 Scholarship Recipient
I'm so grateful for the 12 x 12 Diversity Scholarship! Being a part of the community makes me feel like having big sisters and brothers who generously share their triumphs, almost-triumphs, passes, and advice. Their genuine stories of perseverance, learned lessons, and understanding make the publishing dream less daunting and—possible—if we stay the course.
MeiLin Chan
2022 Scholarship Recipient
I am forever grateful to have been selected as one of the 12 x 12 Diversity Scholarship recipients! I’ve learned so much from this supportive kidlit community. And as a gold member, I could submit to agents who were closed to submissions. Eventually, after much revising and many rejections, I finally started to get noticed. I was winning contests, I was getting requests for more work, and in September of 2022, I signed with my agent, Leah Pierre!
Laura De La Cruz
2022 Scholarship Recipient
12 x 12 has been a lifeline allowing me to focus on my dream of someday becoming a published picture book author. Julie and Kelli’s fun sense of humor and upbeat attitude only scratch the surface of what is a massive resource for picture book writers.
Eileen Mayo
2022 Scholarship Recipient
Being a 12 x 12 Scholarship recipient has been an amazing experience. The 12 x 12 writers are eager to encourage, support, and offer advice. I truly feel blessed to have gotten to be a part of this wonderful community.
Daniele Ardnt
2022 Scholarship Recipient
This opportunity allowed me to stay connected to the most knowledgeable and generous writing community I know. Their advice and support in the forum and Facebook group helped me to prepare my manuscripts for submission, and their commitment inspires me even in the toughest moments. We are stronger together! 12 x12 will always be my writing home.
Alexia Andoni
2022 Scholarship Recipient
