Remember picture books are the closest form of writing to a poem. Even though they don't have to rhyme, they must be poetic. They must be written so the worst actress can read with comfort and expression.

The wren and the nightingale sound nothing alike, but think how dull the world would be without the songs of both birds.-Miss Kanagawa

It seems the misfortune of one can plow a deeper furrow in the heart than the misfortune of millions.

The truth can both lift up and knock down.

Sir if I was your daughter I would wait until this train started again and throw myself in front of it!

There is nothing like the occasional outburst of profanity to calm jangled nerves.

Remember picture books are the closest form of writing to a poem. Even though they don't have to rhyme, they must be poetic. They must be written so the worst actress can read with comfort and expression.