A guide to writing for children and teen-agers, including a survey of the field, discussion of specific techniques, marketing hints, and suggestions for handling research and special problems.

A guide to writing for children and teen-agers, including a survey of the field, discussion of specific techniques, marketing hints, and suggestions for handling research and special problems.

Remember the magic of bedtime stories? When you write for children, you have the most appreciative audience in the world. But to reach that audience, you need to write fresh, dynamic stories, whether you're writing rhymed picture books, middle grade mysteries, edgy teen novels, nonfiction, or something else. In this book, you will learn: How to explore the wide variety of age ranges, genres, and styles in writing stories, articles and books for young people. How to find ideas. How to develop an idea into a story, article, or book. The basics of character development, plot, setting, and theme. How to use point of view, dialogue, and thoughts. How to edit your work and get critiques. Where to learn more on various subjects. This book focuses on the craft of writing for children. It will help you get started, through straightforward information and exercises you can do on your own or with critique partners. If you've been writing for awhile but feel your writing education has gaps, this guide can help you work through those weak points. I share examples from my own work and teaching experience, as well as interviews and advice with published writers and industry professionals. Whether you're just starting out or have some experience, this book will make you a better writer - and encourage you to have fun!

How to write fiction and nonfiction for children and young adults.

"Nowhere will you find a more comprehensive crash course specifically about writing for children and teens, written by an award-winning children's book author who is in the field today." -- from back cover.