Writing First Chapter Books and Early Readers 2018

Gain understanding of the unique needs of books for children who are beginning to read independently.

Do you remember the first time you read a book all by yourself? Was it The Cat in the Hator Frog and Toad? Do you pause in front of library shelves featuring Mercy Watson and Ivy & Bean? Do you want to bring joy and confidence to readers who are picking up a book on their own for the very first time? If so, this workshop is for you.

In between the read-aloud world of picture books and the more challenging realm of chapter books lies an exciting spectrum of fiction and nonfiction for beginning readers. These early readers and first chapter books spark a love of independent reading and build confidence in brand-new readers.

Children’s book authors and former editors Laurie Calkhoven and Wiley Blevins will look at the differences between picture books, early readers, and transitional chapter books. You’ll zero in on where your work – fiction, nonfiction, or both – fits in and examine what makes the best books for this age group successful. Along the way, you’ll learn more about generating new ideas, researching and writing your stories, and finding the right publishing home for your work.

You’ll also have one-on-one critique sessions with a workshop leader, workshops and writing exercises to help strengthen your WIP or create a new work, time to write, and Skype sessions with editors.