At a recent library presentation, a woman stole our book. Not copyright, not story, but a single copy of our children's book. Another person might view this as a compliment. The book has enough value for someone to steal it, but I disagree. I don't believe it's a compliment, nor do I view this action as a crime, but instead, I think it's a testament to this woman's character. Sadly, she missed message of our presentation.

Library presentations serve as our personal gift to community. We devote our time to promote literacy and share our anti-bullying strategies to benefit children. My husband and I speak about friendship and trust. We read, sing, play guitar and talk to children about confidence and self-esteem. When we present at smaller venues, such as a library, everyone receives a goody bag, bookmark and free cassette. Even if they don't purchase a book, we make sure no child will go home empty-handed.

A woman I'll call Sue, approached me after our presentation. With her son by her side, Sue explained, "I don't have any cash on me, but my son just loved your book. Bullying is such an important topic." Her son confirmed his mother's statement with a smile and nod of his head; however, it was look in his eyes that melted my heart.

Sue promised to send a check immediately. She told me she is a teacher, and she wanted to share book with her class. "You did a wonderful job with story. The fantasy held his interested, but he also got message," she said as she wrote down her contact information. "Oh, by way, can you sign this for me?"

So, in exchange for an autographed copy of our book, a cassette, bookmark and a goody bag, I received Sue's promise and her contact information, scribbled on back of our business card.

There are writers who editors like, and those they’d bet their careers on. How can you be that writer who editor will call on every time she needs an important assignment to be done? Are you a hot favorite or a pass-on-for-another-freelancer who keeps querying but receives no response? Here are qualities that will endear you to an editor.

1. Giving more than you promise When an editor asks for two samples, give her three. If she trusts you with an assignment, don’t wait for final deadline, but send it in a day in advance. If she’s asked you to provide notes, make sure you give her everything she needs so that she doesn’t have to ask for anything more. If you make an editor’s job easier, she’ll love you for it. And she’ll be willing to trust you again with more assignments.

2. Constantly coming up with fresh slants There may not be too many new topics (unless you’re writing about technology; then you just can’t complain), but there can always be new slants. An editor likes writers who can reduce her brainwork, and make her look good in front of her superiors by coming up consistently with great ideas.

3. Having all answers It’s important to know about your subject. That’s why so many well-paid writers advise you to specialize. So, if an editor calls you to discuss your query, and poses follow-up questions, you better have answers. Because an editor’s never going to trust you with an assignment unless she’s sure you know what you’re doing. And not having answers to her questions is a sure-shot sign that you don’t.