Hi Michele,
The first thing you want to consider is what type of book you want to write: picture books, beginning chapter books, etc.? You might find it useful to identify books that are similar is style, length and theme to the books you aspire to write. One of the most effective ways to lea... more

Hi Michele,
The first thing you want to consider is what type of book you want to write: picture books, beginning chapter books, etc.? You might find it useful to identify books that are similar is style, length and theme to the books you aspire to write. One of the most effective ways to learn to write is by reading. Naturally, you aren’t going to pattern your book after others already in print, but the reading will give you a good sense of what’s being done and how. As a teacher, you’ve already been exposed to children’s literature so that should help.

Then, of course, you’ll have to write the story. Writing for children is every bit as demanding as writing for adults…the vocabulary may be different, but the story must still be well plotted with engaging characters.

You might want to visit my blog: All About The Books with Janet Squires. Wednesday is Writer’s Day and I’m answering questions from my readers. Check out the 9/9/09 post.

I am looking to write a childrens book for girls b/t ages 6-10. I have some ideas that I am in the process of pulling together to begin my manuscript. I've never done anything like this before and I have no clue how to get started with this process. Any feedback or guidance that you may have wil... more

I am looking to write a childrens book for girls b/t ages 6-10. I have some ideas that I am in the process of pulling together to begin my manuscript. I've never done anything like this before and I have no clue how to get started with this process. Any feedback or guidance that you may have will be greatly appreciated.