New Client Alert- Mike Downs

Name: Mike Downs
What you Write: Lively picture books with integrated non-fiction, PB biography
Agent: Tracy Marchini
Why BookEnds? I was looking for a quality literary agency that had agents who focused on the children’s market. Tracy Marchini was the perfect fit, with her appreciation of non-fiction and informational fiction in the picture book and middle-grade market.

Tell us a bit about your writing process. Where do you write, and how often? 

I typically wake up about 5 am, get a bit of exercise, and then write for at least two hours, though I prefer to write up to six hours if I have the time. Although I try to do this every day, it probably ends up being four days a week. Maybe an average of 20+ hours per week.

Do you have any writing rituals? (e.g. burning a candle if you’re having trouble getting started at the computer or writing longhand first if you’re feeling uninspired.)

I have no writing rituals that I can think of. I take my computer and write wherever I am…hotels, home, library, planes, etc. If I get stuck on one project, I start writing another.

What do you love about writing picture books? 

I love that I can get young readers excited about a story and teach them something at the same time.

Do you belong to any writing organizations?

I belong to the SCBWI. This wonderful organization provides support, camaraderie and valuable information to children’s book writers and illustrators.