The Mash-Up Method: Creating New Ideas by Combining the Unexpected

Sometimes the most original ideas come from combining two completely unrelated concepts. This “mash-up” approach invites you to think outside the box and create something fresh and surprising. By juxtaposing unexpected elements, you unlock opportunities for humor, creativity, and unique storytelling.

Here’s how it works:

1. Choose two random elements. These could be characters, settings, or themes. For example, “a pirate” and “a ballet class.”
2. Ask yourself how they might interact. What would happen if a pirate decided to join a ballet class? How would they adapt to the etiquette and structure? What challenges might they face? What friendships or lessons could emerge?

Exercise: Write down a list of ten random nouns (e.g., astronaut, sunflower, kite) and ten verbs (e.g., baking, singing, racing). Pair them up in unusual ways and brainstorm potential storylines. Even if some combinations feel silly, they might spark an idea you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. For instance, “an astronaut baking cookies in space” or “a sunflower learning to race the wind” could inspire vivid and memorable stories. An alternate version of this exercise could include ten random characters and ten different settings.

The mash-up method encourages playful thinking, and playful thinking is at the heart of creating engaging picture books. It also helps break through creative blocks by encouraging you to experiment without judgment.