An Alternate Selection of the Literary Guild Here is everything the aspiring children's author needs to know about the five essential steps to publication: researching the current marketplace, developing story ideas, strengthening writing skills and improving work habits, submitting proposals and manuscripts to agents and publishers, and becoming part of the writing community. What's more, this revised and expanded edition contains updated reading lists and organizational references, as well as the latest information on word processing and illustrating with computers. There's also a new chapter on writing plays for children, and innovative suggestions for handling difficult contemporary issues such as AIDS. From character sketches to bound books, author/editor Barbara Seuling shows how to get involved and work toward success in today's world of children's literature.
How to Write a Children's Book and Get It Published FROM THE PUBLISHER Do you dream of becoming the next J. K. Rowling? Are you excited about writing for children but have no idea how to begin or where to send your material? Now, respected children's writer Barbara Seuling gives you the essential steps to getting published in the competitive, exciting world of children's literature. From finding story ideas and creating character sketches to plotting, writing dialogue, editing, and revising your work, you'll learn how to complete a manuscript and prepare it for submission. Whether you want to write picture or chapter books, fiction or nonfiction, poetry or plays, Seuling helps you master the different genres and capture a child's interest and imagination, from the early years to young adult. Her fully revised guide also covers the major developments in book publishing, including vital information about using the Internet to research the market and contact publishers. Seuling even discusses recent successes such as the Harry Potter series, as well as the growth of Amazon.com. Complete with updated lists of writing organizations, marketing information, and recommended reading, this is the only guide you need to start writing, get published, and touch the lives of children.
SYNOPSIS Seuling, the author and illustrator of more than 60 children's books, describes how to research children's literature, develop an idea and write a proposal, and investigate the many avenues of print and Internet publication. She includes chapters on writing picture books, fiction and non-fiction, poetry, and plays, as well as tips for developing good writing habits, finding a publisher, and working with editors. She lists many great children's books and resources for finding more. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
FROM THE CRITICS Children's Literature - Della A. Yannuzzi
This popular how-to-book by Barbara Seuling is in its third edition. It is a readable, instructional book for new and more seasoned writers who wish to review the basics of writing for children. Seuling's book is divided into five parts with appendixes at the end. Part one takes a close look at children's books by explaining what a children's book is and how to become an expert. Part two describes how to develop ideas and become a better writer. Part three deals with writing the book, whether it is a picture book, easy-to-read, early chapter book, fiction or nonfiction. Part four concentrates on selling your book. Part five takes a look at the publishing world and how to work with an editor. There is a good mix of material in this book for writers at different levels. There are examples of query letters, illustrations on how to make a picture book dummy, checklists for writing fiction or nonfiction, and lots of other good tips. Back book material includes sources for book lists, references, marketing information, writing books, web sites, and organizations. Seuling's book is a good one to have on your bookshelf. 2005, John Wiley and Sons Inc, Ages 14 up.
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