Write Books A Child Will Love

A small child sits on his parent's lap and listens to stories. As the parent reads many books to the little one after a short time, these people believe they could write one of these books. It seems so simple because it has few words.

I've written these books and it was anything but simple. The process is complex. Every word has to count when there are fewer words. You have to work hard at this skill but it is something that can be taught.


Check out this article on some of the key factors with children's writing:

What's In...And What's (Often) Wrong with Children's Writing?

You've come to the right place to learn this skill. Books for young people are broken into various categories. These categories are distinct because the vocabulary, subjects and types of books are different in each one.

Usually the first step for a children's writer is to understand the various book genres. Read this article to begin this understanding:

Understand Children's Book Genres

This page will have separate sections on these different categories such as:

Picture Books

Books for ages 3 to 7

Books for ages 8 to 12

Writing the Middle-Grade Novel

Tips for Writing Mysteries

Books for tweens

Books for teens

Reviews of books about writing for children


Terry Whalin chats on the Institute of Children's Literature website

Read the entire 13-page transcript from Thursday, May 6, 2004 at:

"The Growing and Changing Christian Magazine and Book Markets"


Articles for Children's Writers

Basic Writing Tips for Children's Writers

Have you read a children's book and wondered how the author made you marvel at the turn of a phrase? Learn techniques for:
Stopping Readers In Their Tracks

When you write your story, the viewpoint will be an important decision. You can learn more at:
Which Viewpoint and Which Voice for Your Story?

Learn from the Masters

Middle Graders belong to the Golden Age of Reading. How do you tap into this large market? Learn from Kristi Holl who has often written for these readers:
Writing the Middle-Grade Novel

Do's and Don't For Children's Writers

A Look at Current Children's Book Trends

Glossary of Children's Writing Terms

Frequently Asked Questions About Children's Writing

Great Fiction Comes From Writing Lightly

Don't bore your readers with your writing but learn to:
Keep Them Active

A Common Pitfall: Expository Dialogue

Tips For Developing An Original Voice

What is the difference between the Middle Grade and Young Adult categories?

Characters drive our children's stories--particularly for ages 8 and up. How do you learn the Secrets of Great Characters

How Do I Write About Controversial Subjects in Children's Books?

Book Packaging: Under-explored Terrain For Freelancers

As this page grows, you will want to use the button below to mark it as a favorite so you can return to it:

Return often to this page for answers and insight. You can begin with this resource: