Well, how blooming marvellous it was to wake up this morning and discover that “Mrs Tipton’s Tulips” had received an Honourable Mention in this fantastic Kids Lit competition.
#50preciouswords, created by children’s writer, Vivian Kirkfield, is an annual competition which requires each entrant to tell a complete story, with a beginning, middle and end in 50 words or under. Harder than it sounds, believe me!
This contest reminds the writer (especially Picture Book writers) that every word should matter! With a target of 50 or less, you have to consider your words very carefully and not waste a single one! What a great way to practice being succinct!
Anyway, hope you enjoy my little story about a mistake that led to a whole community coming together, inspired by my love of Tulips!
Mrs Tipton’s Tulips
“Thirty-three boxes of tulip bulbs?” says Mrs Tipton, “I only ordered three!
Hi! My name is Angela. I write stories and poems for both children and adults.
Around fifteen years ago, I began to take my life-long love of creative writing to a new level and started writing Picture Books.
Like in every good story, there have been plenty of obstacles along the way! It’s been fifteen years of stops and starts, highs and lows, plus a few depressing rejections in between! But, thankfully, the story isn’t over just yet.
Some of my Picture Book stories feature:
a noisy, guitar-playing goose
a squirrel who loses a treasure
and a loveable tortoise called Hugo.
Hopefully, one day, you’ll get to read them.
Kids, Kids, Kids!
Besides writing, I’m a busy mum to four growing kids, including a set of twins! I also work as a Child-Minder, specialising in Early Years, which gives me plenty of scope for the imagination! Our house is constantly full of children (of all ages) and there is never a dull moment!
Breaking into Print!
Back in 2015, I wondered what would happen if I combined my passion for writing with my faith. Soon after, I received my first ever YES from a publisher, when two of my short stories, ‘Pitch-Black Patch’ and ‘Hidden Blooms’ were published by Keys For Kids Ministries in their quarterly devotional.
It was so much fun, that I went on to write a few more stories, some of which include:
Don’t Forget the Toothpaste
Teacups and Trainsets
One Hundred Percent
Only God Can Do That!
That’s Not My Job!
and The Doll’s House
I’ve also contributed articles and devotionals for Unlocked, Devozine and Creation Illustrated.
I love to learn all I can about the craft of writing, and have recently completed courses in Picture Book writing, plus chapter books for older readers.
I have recently discovered and joined an amazing Writer’s Group, called ‘Write For A Reason’ and I am currently working on my first kid’s Novel.
Connecting
I’m a member of the SCBWI and enjoy being involved in the writing community on Social Media. I am a firm believer in learning from and helping to encourage others along the way and love to connect with other writers and creatives.
Relaxing
When I’m not writing, chances are I’m either curled up in my favourite arm-chair, (book in one hand, cup of tea in the other), cooking up a storm for the family, or pretending to be a country singer. I’m also a bit of a novice gardener, and keen wild-life lover.
I live in London with my amazing husband, Nathan, our four kids, two Rescue Tabby Cats, and our adorable Fox Red Labrador, Amber.
Angela Jelf 