IT’S ALL ABOUT . . . MARCHING INTO MARCH WITH IDEAS! By Melissa Stoller

Each March, I think of the phrase, “In like a lion and out like a lamb.” This refers to the weather during the month of March, which often comes in strong like a lion and then leaves gently like a lamb. Reflecting on this phrase can lead to inspiration. 
 
Here are a few related prompts to inspire story ideas this month:

1. Think of a story whose main characters are a lion or a lamb, or two other types of animals, or children who have different temperaments. Write a story pitch using these characters.  

2. Think of opposites. Write a book featuring opposite concepts such as high/low, over/under, big/small, hot/cold, or ocean/space. 

3. Research holidays or festivals that occur in March where you live. Choose one and write a story using that special occasion as the background.  
 
This March, use the weather, the holidays, and the phrase “In like a lion and out like a lamb” to help find story ideas. 
 
Let me know in the comments if these exercises helped. 
 
Happy writing! 
 

MELISSA’S BIO:
 
Melissa Stoller writes to bring connection, joy, and a bit of magic to her readers. Her newest picture book, Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart, illustrated by Anita Bagdi, releases from Gnome Road Publishing in Fall 2025. Melissa is also the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection - Return to Coney Island, and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush; Ready, Set, GOrilla!; Sadie’s Shabbat Stories; Planting Friendship: Peace, Salaam, Shalom; and Building Bridges: Peace, Salaam, Shalom (co-written). Melissa is a Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy, a Rate Your Story Judge, a volunteer with SCBWI/MetroNY, a Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Trustee, and a past school and Synagogue Trustee. She also interviews authors and offers resources on her blog. In other chapters of her life, Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer/editor, and early childhood educator. She lives in New York City with her family, and enjoys theatre, museums, and Central Park walks. 
  
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