Writing a Children's Book

Lesson 2: Planning Your Book.

Exercises and Bibliography

Exercise

Go to a book shop or library, or raid your own shelves, and find an original picture book (i.e. not a TV or film tie-in or spin off) that was first published (not just reprinted) in the past five years.

Study this book. Look at the way it is constructed, whether it uses rhyme, rhythm or refrains. Look at the language. See how the pictures support or add to the text. Now, see what kind of picture book it is. Is it "cosy", like "I'm Big Enough"? Is it an "issues" book? i.e. does it deal with subjects such as death, divorce or jealousy or aging? Is it a happy romp, with no discernable message? Is it mysterious? Is it meant to be read aloud, or self-read? What age group would like it?

When you've done this, write down your findings. If you intend to write picture books yourself, you should study as many modern examples as you can find.

Bibliography.

“Narnia” series by C.S. Lewis. Usually known as "The Chronicles of Narnia". 7 titles. Various editions.

“Swallows and Amazons” series by Arthur Ransome. 1940s. 12 titles. Various editions.

E. Nesbit’s “Five Children” series. 3 titles. Various editions.

Monica Edwards’ “Punchbowl Farm” series. 11 titles. Various editions.

Elizabeth Enright’s “Melendy” series. 5 titles. Various editions.

Edward Eager’s “Magic” series. 4 titles. Various editions.

Enid Blyton’s “Famous Five” series. Various editions.

Monica Edwards’ “Romney Marsh” series. 15 titles. Various editions.

Geoffrey Trease’s “Bannermere” series. 5 titles. Various editions.

L.M. Montgomery's "Anne" and "Emily" series, beginning with "Anne of Green Gables" and "Emily of New Moon". Various editions.

Maggie Pearson

"Alien Dawn".

Sally Odgers -

"The Pocket Unicorn", Barrie Publishing. "I'm Big Enough", Koala Books, 2002. "Sweetwater Surprise", Barrie Publishing. "Trinity Street", HarperCollins, 1997.

Anna Mario -

"Dolphin". Barrie Publishing 2002. Illustrated by Lisa Coutts.