Booklist's Notable Children's Books

Booklist online just released its Notable Children's Books 2009. This list, chosen by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), is comprised of works of fiction, information, poetry and pictures. Categories range from the very young to YA readers. All of these books were published in 2008 and ALSC, Newbery, Caldecott and Geisel award winners are automatically included. If you haven't read these books, run - don't walk - to your local library. An impressive list of authors/talent/illustrators -inspiring to all writers of children's books.
http://www.booklistonline.com/

Bedtime Books

An article in Children's Writer (http://www.childrenswriter.com/) discusses bedtime books and the qualities that will endure over time. Those of us who are parents can tell you the top 5 bedtime books for their children. And, years later, we remember all the words. A favorite bedtime book will, literally, be read hundreds of times. However, this is more than "just" reading a book. This is about a special ritual with your child, time together, bringing an end to the day. Special rituals deserve special books. From an editor's point of view, what will make your manuscript special enough to publish? A bedtime picture book must please several audiences: the editor, the child and the parent, who will purchase the book and commit to reading it every night. A unique twist is vitally important in today's market. It's not enough to write about a teddy bear. What does the teddy bear do that is different? Is the rhythm unique? Can you introduce a new voice? Can it serve a dual purpose? Bedtime books don't necessarily have to be nighttime books. The popular "I Love You As Much" book introduces the reader to various animal mothers and their babies. The familiar rhythm ends with the human mother kissing her child goodnight - leaving the child with comforting images. For tired parents, a great nighttime book is as precious as a good night's sleep.

What the heck is YA? How about MG? Understanding Reading Levels

Children's books can be solidly in one category or cross a variety of reading levels and targeted audiences. If you are a children's writer, how do you know where your book fits in? What's a YA book? How about a MG book? A SCBWI faculty member distributed this helpful information:

Picture Book: Age 1-6+

Range from a few words per page to longer paragraphs of text and more complicated story lines. Word count: limited words - 1,000 words. Less than 800 words is best.

Easy-to-Read: Age 4-8, 6-9, 7-10

Simple sentences and limited vocabulary. For children just learning to read. Stories need to move fast.

Chapter Books: Age 7-11

Word count: approx. 10,000 - 25,000. Short chapters for young readers. Historical, mystery and contemporary stories popular.

Middle-Grade Novels: Age 8-12

Tight plotting, plenty of dialogue, and a fast pace are crucial. Approximately 12,000-40,000 words. All genres - a major market for children's writers.

Young Adult Novels: Age 12 and up

Approximately 40,000-60,000 words. Suject matter can be controversial and range from innocent to "edgy". A teen protagonist.

Spring Has Sprung!

Those of us in Pennsylvania rejoiced over the spring weather this weekend. I refuse to believe winter weather will ever return, and defiantly packed away the boots/parkas/snow gear. While I love a school snow day as much as anyone, there is nothing like the first hint of Spring again. It's almost difficult to remember over those long winter months. Hard to say when it's easier to write - holed up on winter days, happy to be inside or the rush of inspiration as the new life of Spring breathes again. It's all good!

Mentoring Workshop Tips

Really a terrific group of editors (and one agent) at the NJ-SCBWI workshop. These one-day workshops consist of a 20 minute manuscript critique with an editor, a "first page" session (the first pages are read anonymously and the editors give a five minute critique and participation in a critique group with other writers. There is lots of work to do ahead, but many rewards. This particular group of editors/agents was well-rounded with plenty of experience in the publishing world. A nice mix of picture books, MG and YA authors/illustrators clients in their background. These smaller workshops are much more intimate and the atmosphere is relaxed. Jessica Dandino Garrison (Dial Books) was seated at my table for lunch, and she couldn't be more pleasant. She was happy to answer questions and we also tried to give her time to eat. Some interesting comments from the workshop editors/agents: everyone agrees that the industry is tighter, advances will not be as big and publishers are looking for "house authors" (authors that will continue to write marketable books). Another round of applause for Kathy Temean and Laurie Wallmark for organizing the event.

NJ SCBWI Workshop

Heading to the NJ SCBWI writer's workshop Sunday. The workshops are terrific for both aspiring and new authors alike. Tomorrow's workshop includes: Jessica Garrison (Dial Books), Edward Necarsulmer (McIntosh & Otis), Greg Ferguson (EgmontUSA), Connnie Hsu (Little, Brown) and Noa Wheeler (Henry Holt). A great line-up. Check the NJ website for details about the big June conference. I'll be a workshop speaker for the "First Books Panel". Everything you want to know about a first year experience and how my manuscript was discovered at a NJ workshop. More later on the June conference....

Highlights Magazine

Highlights Magazine for Children recently released their "wish list" for articles. Highlights is a terrific magazine -yes, the one that you remember from your own youth. Except it's certainly been updated! Cool, interesting articles and fiction for kids. Lots of opportunities for aspiring writers as well. I currently have two articles submitted. Check out their website at www.highlights.com.