Beginning Writer's Toolkit![]() Here is a suggested list of the basic supplies every beginning writer should get:
- Pocket Size Notebooks - Black pens for writing - Red pens for editing - Dictionary and Thesaurus - Post-its for ideas - USB to back up your work - Snack Food to munch on while you write - A Writer's Space by Eric Maisel - 52 Ways to Nurture your Creativity by Lynn Gordon - Children's Writer's Word Book by Alijandra Mogilner |
Books to ConsiderRegardless of the writer, we can all use a little advise and/or help. Here are some books that talk about the business, the craft and how to hone your talent.
Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke: Rilke believed every writer should look inside themselves and ask one question, must I write? If the answer is "I must" then live your life as such. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott: "Good writing is about telling the truth," she said. Lamott shows writers the pearls of taking it one step at a time, start off small and work your way to the finish line. On Writing by Steven King: Every writer has a beginning, even the famous ones. Steven King talks about his start into the business of writing and his beliefs on writing. "Life isn't a support-system for art," he said, "It's the other way around." |
ContestContests are a great way to get your work read. They help you understand the specifics of what publishers are looking for. Here are some contests to check out:
Random House Contests: Random House hold two annual contests designed for children's writers- Delacorte Yearling Contest for a First Middle-Grade Novel and Delacorte Press Contest for a First Young Adult Novel. Click here for more information. Writer's Digest Contest: Writer's Digest holds an annual writer's competition in 10 categories, one of the being Children's/YA Fiction. Click here for more information. |
Writing GrantsWriting grants can assist you in the development of your work, allowing you the time you need without having to worry about monetary needs.
The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators offers a list a various grants designed to support those working in the children's book field. Click here for more information. |