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Take a Good Look at a Children's Book

© Sue Reichard

Many times those who want to write for children forget one of the best uses of time when not writing or rewriting is to read books written for children. Take time to read books you would like to have written. Study leads and dialogue, take a good look at how the writer moves the story forward, study the characters. Ask yourself, could I have written it in a better way or a different way?

There are so many different types of books,often a writer doesn't know where to begin. Read the reviews in "Horn Book" "Publisher's Weekly", "The Shy Librarian" or "Riverbank Review". If you do not have access to these publications, one way to take a quick peek is to read the reviews at Amazon or Barnes and Noble. These are often a good way to lead you to books you can stock up on from the library to use when you just cannot write another word.

I have listed several reviews that I have written for books that have been useful for me. If one piques your curiosity, check it out of your local library.

Vancover Nightmare Eric Wilson This new novel by Eric Wilson is a Tom Austin mystery and will be a sure-fire hit with young mystery lovers. Young Tom Austin takes a wrong turn into trouble when he accidently meets up with one of Vancouvers notorious drug dealers named Spike. Tom poses as a runaway on Skid Road, a crime- ridden area where drug deals go down.Tom tries to help local police uncover a gang selling drugs to young kids. Tom's real "Vancouver Nightmare" begins when his true identity is discovered. The theme of good versus evil will draw readers into this novel which is full of intense intrique and suspense. The young protagonist also reveals his character as one of integrity and proves to be a real role model readers can admire. 2000, Orca Book Publishers, Ages 9 to 12.

Classic Adventures: A Collection of Action-Packed Masterpieces Compiled by Glen and Karen Bledsoe

This collection of five action-filled masterpieces of literature is sure to entice even the most reluctant reader. Each tale begins with a luring introduction that beckons and entices the reader into the tale. A biographical sketch of each famous author precedes each story. The book also includes a comprehensive glossary of unfamiliar words grouped by story as an aid for the reader.The action-loaded thrillers in this collection include, Jack London's, "To Build A Fire", a great tale of survival in the Alaskan Klondike,Mark Twain's, "Tom Sawyer Abroad", Edgar Rice Burrough's,"The Lion",