Science, history, sports, biographies—these are just a few of the topics of hundreds of books for today’s young readers. This practical seminar introduces beginning and experienced writers to aspects of creating well-researched, well-written books for this market.

The day begins with a look at children’s nonfiction to examine how writing for younger readers differs from writing for adults. Learn how to tailor writing styles for specific audiences and how to select topics and research subject matter, organize information for writing projects, and interest readers using quotes, anecdotes, journal entries, and other tools.

Following a lunch break, do a brief writing exercise and look at the role of graphics and photo research and the impact of online publishing on nonfiction.

The day concludes with a discussion of how to market a finished manuscript by studying current market trends, researching publishers’ submission policies, and writing a proposal and a compelling cover letter.

Instructor Betsy Harvey Kraft, former president of the Children’s Book Guild of Washington, D.C., is an awardwinning author of nonfiction for young adults.

Participants provide their own lunch.