Guest Blogging

You don't need any special credentials to be a guest blogger- just an interest in the focus of this blog. In fact, I encourage you to get in touch with me even if you don't think of yourself as a writer. I want to bring many voices into the conversation. You can pitch me an idea and I'll help you frame it, if you feel you need guidance.

Things to keep in mind:

1. You need to pitch me and get a topic approved before you write the post. Contact me with an idea or two in mind, not just simply with the general idea that you want to guest blog. If you don't have an idea, likely you haven't connected with the focus of my blog and are therefore not a great fit.
2. This blog has a very specific focus on nature and culture. Please familiarize yourself with my focus before contacting me. If you're not a regular reader, poke around and get a feel for the kind of posts I write. You might start with the "Popular Posts" on my side bar.
3. All guest posts will include a bio of the author (to be provided by the author).
4. You may link to your blog or website, etc. Any links MUST be kid friendly. This is non-negotiable.
5. No hard selling. You’re welcome to link to your sites or to mention your books. Any links to other sites, however, must be related to your post. Read some of my posts to get a sense of the kind of links I provide. DO NOT contact me if your sole purpose is to try to sell your products on this blog. I will ignore your email.
6. I encourage you to include photographs, as appropriate. All photos must be copyright free. (That is, you cannot find an image on the Internet and use it in your post unless you found it on a site that clearly offers free usage or you paid for its usage). When in doubt, use your own photographs.
7. Posts should be 500 words or less. If you feel you have a great idea and want to write something longer, pitch me. (Some of my most popular posts have been over 600 words, so I'm open to a great idea).
8. Posts should be edited for proper grammar, spelling, mechanics, etc. If you feel you're weak in this area, ask someone else to proofread for you. I'll also do a final edit before posting.
9. Email your post in the body of an email. When linking to another site, put the link in parentheses immediately following the anchor text (word or phrase) you wish to be a link. Photos can be sent as attachments.
10. Ultimately, I control the content on this blog. I reserve the right to reject a submission even if we agreed to an idea. (I would only do this if your post violates my requirements, especially #3, 4, or 5). If I have concerns, however, I'll contact you first to see if we can work them out.
11. I will promote your post through Facebook and Twitter. I'll expect you to do the same with your readers/friends. If you have a blog, I'd appreciate you mentioning your guest post there, as well.

Possible posts:

•  A description of your favorite natural place.
• A "Top Ten" list of your travel tips.
• An essay about how travel has impacted you/your children.
• A description of ways you and your children (students) interact with nature.
• A review/ description of your favorite book set in a natural place.
• A review/ description of your favorite book set in another country/with a protagonist from another culture.
• Lessons you (your children/students) have learned from interacting with people of different backgrounds.
• Project ideas for children that relate to nature and/or culture.
•  Others? Pitch me!

 If you’re interested in guest blogging, please email me. michelle(at)michellecusolito(dot)com

I look forward to hearing from you.