I was reminded that the text of a picture book is as much about what is not said as it is about what is said. Writing is about trust. This is particularly true in the writing of a picture book. I trust that the illustrator and designer will be faithful to my words and vision, but I also trust that they will see beyond my words and allow their own visions to take their proper course. It is a curious alchemy, the collaborative process.
— Mark Karlins
Mark, a member of my critique group, passed away earlier this month. He was gentle and kind and so very wise. If you haven’t yet read his last book, Kiyoshi’s Walk, it’s beautiful. I encourage you to pick up a copy.
Thank you, Mark, for all you taught me.
A beautiful quote. My condolences on Mark’s passing and thank you for sharing his wise words.
I love how he wrote poetry with his children, and with this book opened the way for more parents to do that.
Caroline,
I’m so sorry to hear this – sorry for your loss of an incredibly powerful critique group member and for our loss as readers of his books.. Kiyoshi’s Walk is one of my favorite books of last year and as I’m such a lover of the haiku form, I’d say the book will join the ranks of all time favorites.
Last Mother’s Day, I invited a friend and her eight year old son to my once-house (preKatrina) and now garden space and in the midst of larkspur flowers and corn crop, I read Mark’s book to them. And, of course, after that, we all wrote haiku poems. The mom is a long-hauler Covid survivor and this was one of her first ventures to the outside world. We will always remember this day with great fondness — and Kiyoshi’s Walk made it all the more special.
Pat Austin
Thank you so much for sharing this, Pat. I’ve passed your message onto Mark’s family.
I am very sorry for this loss