You Can Write Children's Books (You Can Write It!) (Paperback)

First-time children''s writers will learn to follow the important writing and submission guidelines they need to get their books in print. Ways to target the right age group, today''s hot trends and the basic conventions of style are all included.'

You Can Write Children's Books
As a successful writer and experienced editor, Tracey Dils takes the mystery out of the maze of children’s book publishing. First-time children’s writers will learn to follow the important writing and submission guidelines they need to get their work in print, featuring: * the trends that are hot in today’s market * how to maintain the structured format of children’s publishing * ways to target the right age group * different types of nonfiction--the most overlooked category of children’s books * how to produce professional work by using the basic conventions of style tips for submitting manuscripts that get attention * creative ways to break into the market * where to learn more and how to keep current * * * * * * * * * * ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tracey E. Dils was first published in Highlights magazine when she was in the fifth grade. Today she is the author of more than 20 books for young readers, including picture books, scary stories, "how-to" guides, nonfiction science titles and a biography. Dils is also a freelance editor for several children’s publishing houses and packagers. She teaches writing for children at writer’s conferences and workshops, and is currently a faculty member of the Institute of Children’s Literature. * * * * * * * * * * TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET STARTED - Explore the magic world of children’s books--the mission, the market and the magic--and dispel some misconceptions you may have about the field. Chapter 2 - PICTURE BOOKS - Discover how to write picture books that warm the hearts of youngsters and adults alike. Chapter 3 - BEGINNING READERS, CHAPTER BOOKS AND NOVELS - Learn the special guidelines for each book category and discover the special joy of writing for young readers. Chapter 4 - NONFICTION - Get to know the exciting rewards and opportunities of this often overlooked genre. Chapter 5 - LOOK LIKE A PRO - Learn the important conventions of style and technique that give your manuscript a professional and polished look. Chapter 6 - FIND THE RIGHT PUBLISHER FOR YOUR BOOK - Discover how to navigate the publishing maze, and target the right publisher for your manuscript . Chapter 7 - GIVE YOUR MANUSCRIPT A FIGHTING CHANCE - Submit your manuscript professionally, create eye-catching query and cover letters, and prepare yourself for publishing success. Chapter 8 - BREAKING INTO PRINT - Create a writing rhythm that works for you and learn the secrets that will unlock publishing opportunities. APPENDIX INDEX * * * * * * * * * * PRAISE FOR YOU CAN WRITE CHILDREN’S BOOKS "A top-quality introduction to the nuts and bolts of writing for young people. Portions of the book are so lucid and helpful that I found myself wishing I’d written them myself! Well done, Tracey Dils!" --Eric D. Suben, former Editor-in-Chief, Golden Books "I have read Tracey’s book and find it complete and thorough, from book idea to sales; a true guide for the aspiring author." --Vincent F. Douglas, Senior VP, McGraw-Hill Learning Materials "Extremely helpful to emerging children’s book writers. All of the best tools are here! YOU CAN WRITE CHILDREN’S BOOKS gives writers the encouragement, guidance and inside information needed to be successful in today’s children’s book market." --Tanya Dean, vice-president, Pages Publishing Group "Bravo to Tracey for such a comprehensive look at writing for kids, from the very young to the middle grade reader! I wish I’d had this book when I was starting out!" --Lurlene McDaniel, young adult novelist, Bantam Books * * * * * * * * * *