We are so fortunate to have Jennifer Sheehan with us to share some information about Bumples magazine. Welcome, Jennifer! Would you please begin by sharing a little about yourself with us and telling us how Bumples got its start? I'm a retired accountant, coach and writer. Eight years ago, I was searching on the web for children's magazines and realized that there might be a place for an internet children's magazine. I started Bumples with a programmer and a graphic designer. They have since moved away. The whole concept was to offer a magazine that kids could interact with. Bumples was the first online interactive magazine. I wanted to try, with wonderful stories, to reach kids who did not like to read. What do you love most about your editor job? What do you find challenging about it? I love reading all the wonderful stories and poems that I get to read. Also, that Bumples has writers from all over the world. Eighty percent of the stories are excellent. Most days, after reading the stories I will leave the computer feeling good or laughing. Sometimes, it is very hard to select the right story. I hate telling an author that I can't use their stories. For those who might not be familiar with Bumples, tell us a bit about it. What sets it apart as a magazine? Bumples is an interactive magazine for kids 4-10. At the end of each story or poem, there is a fact page and a game relating to the story. If the kids are reading a story about a turtle, the fact page will tell them a little more about a turtle. Most kids love games, especially hidden objects. I try to relate the game to the character in the story. What do you particularly look for in a submission? What sorts of things get you excited? I love stories that are funny or leave you with a positive feeling. I am partial to stories about animals, sports and mysteries. I have to be able to animate a story. I am not an artist, so it has to be pretty basic and something a child can relate to. I have been told that my pictures are child like. As a child I loved stories with lots of pictures, so I try to do that. What things turn you off to a submission? Any pet peeves? A story that is boring or tells the children instead of getting them involved. A poem that rhymes but doesn't make any sense. Any tips for writers and illustrators who might want to break into Bumples? Suggestions that will increase their chances of acceptance? Like me, I want kids to leave a story feeling good or laughing. A turtle that finds a new home or a kid that hits their first ball. Any tips for puzzle writers? On your website, you say, "We will also negotiate with people who write game programs." Is this referring to computer programming code? You don't mention payment for puzzles otherwise. Do you only accept puzzles which include the programming? I will be offering different types of games. Hidden objects, memory, mazes, coloring pages, jigsaw puzzles, building, hangman, and other misc games. I am open to any idea and you do not have to be a programmer. I will be paying between $15 -$30. It will depend on how involved the game is. Illustrators can send a cute picture that I can turn into a jigsaw puzzle or color. Are you willing to consider reprints (things that have been previously published elsewhere)? Yes, I accept reprints and also hope that you will resend your story out to other publishers after it's been published in Bumples. Any other information about Bumples you’d like to share with us? Bumples is a labor of love. I feel very blessed to have the support that the authors have given me. I have gained so many friends from all over the world. If you have any suggestions please let me know. Thank you so much, Jennifer, for taking the time to share with us this helpful information and for being a part of creating such a wonderful magazine for kids. For you writers who are now inspired to submit something to this fun publication, submission guidelines are here. Writing for Children's Magazines, March 2016