How to Write Children's Fiction

The ability to write children’s fiction is no different that writing fiction for adults. You must have a story you want to tell and be able to convey that story on the page in a way that will capture your reader. There are a few things to keep in mind before you start any story for children that can help you when you are ready to publish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Library access
• Library card
• Vehicle or other means of transportation
• Bookstore access

1. Determine what age group you would like to write for. Do you want to write for very young children, pre-teens, tweens or young adults?
2. Visit a large bookstore near you. Browse through the section of children’s books that match your age range. Ask the salesclerk which books are selling the best. Make a list of those.
3. Visit your local library. Again, ask what books are the most popular with kids. Check out the books the library and the bookstore say are hip and contemporary.
4. Read the books you have checked out. Pay attention to the writing style, the words used, estimated word count and what genres are popular.
5. Write your story tailored to what you have learned. Even if your story isn’t in one of the popular genres, the writing still has to be appropriate for the targeted age group.
6. Polish your story and begin submitting to publishers.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that not all children’s writers are J. K. Rowling and still have a large following.
• Series books work well for children as they love to collect each book in a series.
• If you need help polishing your book, look for a local writer’s group or online critique group to assist you in making your book the best it can be.

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