March 2001
How Do I Target a Specific Age Group?
I am a published author about to embark on my first children's book. It is, I envision, for early elementary age children, not just a picture book but a good story with lots of accompanying illustrations.My question is, how do I target a particular age group? How do I know what age group I'm writing for? How is a particular age group defined, or is there a "definition"? I presume a large part of this is the vocabulary, but I'm not quite certain how to most successfuly accomplish this. I don't want to "talk down" to my target group or use language that's a little too challenging. Or, do I just write the story, send it to a publisher and let them tell me what age group it's appropriate for?
Most publishers categorize their books by age group. "Understanding Children's Writing Genres" by Laura Backes,
The best way to understand the age group you're writing for is to read recommended books in your category. You will find reading lists by age group at Oprah's Kids' Reading List and Award Winning Children's Books. As you become familiar with the books for different age levels, you will be better prepared to write your story for your target age group.
If I write a story for young readers (3-7 years) should I do it in first or third person view? Which of these is easier for the youngster to understand?
Canadian writers should make application for copyright registration with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO).
As for point of view (POV) in books for young readers, the best way to help you decide what will work for your story is to read other books published in the same target age group. The CBC publishes the Children's Book Panel 2000, a list of recommended picture books for new readers; many are from Canadian publishers.
I am interested in finding any possibilities that would afford the opportunity to review and critique new literature. Would you have any knowledge about where/how to go about this search?
How is a children's story different from one for adults? What are some common cliches to avoid?
What are the basic age-group differences and where is the easiest place to start?
Here at Writing World you'll find several articles by Laura Backes. To understand what's unique about writing for children, read "Finding Your Voice as a Children's Writer." For definitions of the difference between early picture books, transition books, and toddler books, read "Understanding Children's Writing Genres."
The Write4Kids web site offers a wealth of resources and tips for children's writers. Beginning with the article, "Writing Children's Books: How Do I Get Started?" you'll find FAQs and information to further explain the how to write for children. To answer your question about common cliches, read "Do's and Don'ts." For more about age group differences read "The Difference Between Middle Grade and Young Adult". This organization's monthly newsletter, Children's Book Insider, covers all aspects of writing for children including interviews, publishing news, and conferences.
Can You Recommend any Canadian Self-Publishing Resources?
I am Canadian and I write children's stories. Would you happen to know of any companies in Canada that do self-publishing? Also, is there a separate copyright office for Canadians or would we just use the U.S. Copyright office?
There don't appear to be any Canadian companies specializing in self publishing. For more information about publishing and self-publishing in Canada, check out the Canadian Society of Children's Authors, Illustrators and Performers (CANSCAIP) and the Independent Publishers Association of Canada. The Canadian Writer's Market: The Essential Guide for Freelance Writers by Sandra B. Tooze, is another good reference.
How Do I Get Started Reviewing Children's Books?
I have just left the field of teaching and am interested in working with children's literature. My background is child development and I have hands-on-knowledge regarding what appeals to children and is long-lasting quality literature.Ê
Check out Writing-World's list of Children's Book Reviewers. Contact these publications and web sites to inquire whether they are looking for reviewers. Within those selections be sure to look into the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators Book Reviewers List. In order to receive this publication -- a 14-page index of more than 40 reviewers, what publications they review for, and how to contact them -- you must be a member. Be sure to contact the editors of your local newspapers and offer to do children's book reviews.
How Does One Switch from Adult to Children's Writing?
I would like to see a column directed at the writer who wants to switch over to children's writing after getting a reasonable start in fiction for adults. Most of the "how to get started" articles I've seen address very basic issues, but I'd like to know:
I have great news for you! All the information you're looking for can be found at Writing-World.com and Write4Kids.com.For More Information:
Peggy Tibbetts has been a professional writer, editor, and full member of the Society for Children's Book Writers & Illustrators for the past 26 years. She offers courses in children's writing and has edited several successful children's manuscripts. She is the author of the children's novel The Road to Weird, as well as the adult novel Rumors of War. Peggy also moderates the The Write List discussion list at Yahoo.
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