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The Way to Write for Children: An Introduction to the Craft of Writing Children's Literature

by Joan Aiken

A practical introduction to writing for children

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AlbakiReads Editorial

A practical introduction to writing for children

Joan Aiken’s revised guide ranges across several forms of children’s literature, from picture books and early-reader books to chapter books for preteens. It combines discussion of why familiar works by authors such as Beatrix Potter, E. Nesbit, A. A. Milne, and Maurice Sendak have endured with practical topics including finding inspiration and structuring a plot. The book also raises a foundational distinction for aspiring writers: writing for children and writing about them are not necessarily the same task. Its broad scope makes it an introduction to the craft rather than a guide limited to one age group or format.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Adults considering writing books for children
  • Aspiring writers seeking guidance across picture books, early readers, and chapter books
  • Writers interested in discussing established children’s books as examples

Themes

Children’s literatureWriting craftPlot structureSources of inspirationAnalysis of classic children’s books

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

In addressing "the way to write for children," Joan Aiken starts at the beginning. Is writing a children's book as simple as it looks? Do you want to write for children or about them? Do you want to write a picture book for young children, a book for new readers, or a chapter book for preteens? Why is Beatrix Potter so beloved? E. Nesbit? A. A. Milne? Maurice Sendak?

After more than fifteen years as a writing shelf classic, The Way to Write for Children has been completely revised and updated. From analysis of what makes the best-loved children's books so successful, to where to look for inspiration, to practical advice on how to structure a plot, Aiken delivers an extremely useful book for anyone who's ever considered writing a children's book.

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