Learn the standards for writing for distinct age groups and audiences
Identify basic storytelling principles like structure, plot, character development, and dialogue
Discover your niche as a writer for young readers
Complete a draft manuscript, chapter, or outline for longer works
Get an overview of publishing books for young readers
About this course:
If you want to write for kids, you need to think like a kid and enjoy the process of returning to the imaginative, possibility-filled world of childhood. This course introduces you to all major categories of writing for young people, including concept books, picture books, beginning readers, chapter books, middle grade novels, young adult (YA) novels, and nonfiction for all age ranges. You learn the basic storytelling principles of story structure, plot, character development, and dialogue as it applies to each genre, and discover your own niche in the world of children's publishing. You also learn how to tailor your work to the psychological and emotional development, reading abilities, and interests of each age group. The goal is to complete a draft of a manuscript for a picture book or a sample chapter and chapter outline for older readers. Query letters, marketing, and resources for children's book writers are also covered in detail.
Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required.
This course meets in person at the designated class meeting time and location. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation.
Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after July 19, 2023
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
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