Laura Sulentich Fredrickson: You Stay Still

Can you give some background on your piece?

The story is based on my grandchildren and more specifically, my granddaughters. Avery and Julia, in their earlier years, were unable to walk into a room if they could jump, cartwheel, or spin in.

I love how the structure of your poem on the page is filled with the playful movement you are describing. Do you often play around with your writing structure?

I was inspired by Kwame Alexander’s “The  Crossover.” The poetry he wrote moves based on his word choices and placement on the page. Kwame’s writing gave me permission to write in a way that is visual and moves.

What message are you trying to share with your readers? 

As a former special education teacher, I worked with students who worked so hard to stay focused in a setting that was difficult for them. Along with my very active grandchildren, I wanted to honor children who work so hard to stay focused and under control when they just want to MOVE!

Can you share a little about your writing process? 

I am a fidgetter and a mover. I go for walks by the Mississippi River almost every morning and work out phrases for my story. I write long hand and then to my phone, iPad, and laptop. I finish a story, put it away, and pick it up two weeks later to reread and tweak. To be honest, the tweaking of the framework is my favorite part. 

Have you always wanted to write? Can you tell us about your journey as a writer?

I have always loved picture books and have always wanted to write a picture book. I achieved my goal this year by publishing “On the Shortest Day”.

Do you have any advice for children who want to be writers? Especially for those who have unique writing styles like you?

Read, read, read! I knew I didn’t enjoy writing prose, so I looked for books that told their story through poetry. I found books that inspired me and showed me how to write in lyrical verse.

Do you have any book projects we should look out for?

I have written other stories and hope publishing companies will consider them. I would also like us to someday publish “You Stay Still” in a picture book format.

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know? About you, your work, or life?

I also enjoy writing stories that introduce the wonders of nature to children.

Laura's grandkids inspired "You Stay Still."