About ten years ago, I thought a lei day picture book would be a great idea — I imagined illustrations of kids dancing the hula, making their own flower lei, the pretty costumes of the lei day princesses, all the excitement of parents, teachers, and friends gathering for the program, etc. 

My initial story idea centered around a teacher asking her class to make a lei that represented their individual personalities (materials could include almost anything, not necessarily flowers). My main character, Ali, gathered different flowers from her neighbors, thus producing a friendship lei, since she valued people more than anything else.

I sent the manuscript on its way and received positive feedback:

Yes, we love the idea of a Lei Day book (great classroom application)! There’s definitely a need for more fiction set in contemporary Hawai’i! But the story isn’t strong enough.

So I revised and resubmitted. Still not strong enough. Suggestion that I convert it to easy-to-read format. Did that. Resubmitted. Sorry, too much exposition.

I thought a long time (couple of years), but still couldn’t come up with a stronger storyline. Then I received this photo of my great-niece, Melia:

Look at that face! Those sparkling eyes! And her name is Melia, which is Hawaiian for plumeria. This must be a sign! I immediately wrote an entirely different story, with Melia as my main character. After getting suggestions from my critique group, I resubmitted it. 

First response: Lovely story, but hook not strong enough to compete in today’s market.

Second response: Doesn’t resonate enough as written, but will be glad to look at a revision.

So here I am, struggling to find a stronger hook, trying to create a stronger emotional arc, and basically not blow this revision request. I know there is wide interest in the cultural aspects of this book (at least 6 editors have said so). I just need to find the right story . . .   

What do you do to get a fresh perspective on something that’s been in progress for a long time? How do you break out of predictable thinking patterns? How do you basically trade your tired old brain in for a new one?

And how do you know when it’s time to simply give up, and move on to something else?

Meanwhile, my nice brother, Newton, has sent me some photos taken just last week at my niece and nephew’s school Lei Day program. The theme was "Under the Sea." Enjoy, and send me some good, creative vibes, please!

        
                Kindergarten dancing to "Octopus’ Garden" (yay Beatles!)

       
                             Second grade dancing to "Surf"

       
                          Fifth grade dancing to "Surfin’ USA"