Writing Children's Books
Writing children's books
can be so rewarding. But if you think it's a snap to write for children
you are mistaken. Children today are more sophisticated and creative
so the books of yesteryear do not appeal to them. For themes you might
consider problems and fears that children face. Or you might select
themes that are very different from your demographic profiles.
Such as writing stories
about children in other cultures, countries, or of different nationalities.
All children have universal concerns and allowing them to see in print,
helps them to confront and deal with those fears and concerns. Just
be careful in your purpose for writing. Is the story written to teach
a moral, or to entertain, or just to teach?
Perfect your craft. Before
worrying about seeing your name in print, really learn how to write.
Take courses, read "how-to" books, join a writing group,
and so on. Master dialogue, characterization and plot. Write for the
sake of writing, and enjoy the journey. Go to the used book stores
and pick up books on writing. There is a wealth of information on
writing just waiting on their shelves.
Go to the big chain book
stores and see what children's books are selling there. Look at the
best sellers. Best sellers for children are horror stories, multicultural
stories and non fiction. Study the dialog. Determine what age the
book is intended for. A writer won't get by with talking down to a
child. No goo gooey type dialog.
Your characters must have
fully developed qualities. Make them each a unique and different personality.
Every children's book should be entertaining and exciting to read.
Above all, avoid cliches. Dialog for an animal isn't usually done
well by writers. But if you do decide to make your animal talk, keep
their words and thoughts in relation with what they do as an animal
and how they relate to their environment.
How to write a children's
book and get it published.
Getting published is usually
the main event ending to writing a book. But we must realize that
few writers make a living from their work. And the chances of getting
published are slim. Publishers receive thousands of submissions yearly
and only a few make it into print. But that is not to discourage you
the writer. Many many children's manuscripts are selected and published.
The painter paints not
only to sell but just to put his/her ideas on canvas. Also the writer
writes because he/she must put their ideas on paper. Neither does
it soley for money. Same with a musician. They play for the enjoyment
not just for money. If you the write,r enjoy the writing process,
then go for it. Everyone has something unique to say. And your story
idea may just be the next new best seller.
Children's Writer's and
Illustrator's Market gives a brief description of a publisher's program,
sample titles, award-winning books, and other information on getting
published. Or look at the Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's
Books to get you on your way to writing good children's books.
