1

Write the book you want to write, not the one you think you should write.

2

Do some market research. Visit your local bookshop and library to see what titles are available and which titles are popular. Check the children’s bestseller lists and read the books on it.

3

Before you start, write a synopsis or outline. You need to know where the story is going. And you can always change it along the way!

4

Know who you are writing for.

5

Are your language and ideas pitched appropriately for your target market?

6

Make sure your manuscript is an appropriate length for the age group for which it is intended. Compare it with other titles for similar ages.

7

Your opening chapter is crucial. If you don’t engage your readers instantly, they will put the book down.

8

Does your work have a strong hook to lure the reader and sustain the narrative over the whole book? A strong hook is also invaluable when it comes to pitching your book to publishers.

9

Well drawn characters are as important as plot. The best storyline won’t work if the reader doesn’t care what happens to the characters.

10

You might consider how you could hone your writing skills by, for example, joining a creative writing course or a writing group.

Shelley Instone Literary Consultancy offers a specialist children’s editorial service. Go to www.shelleyinstoneliteraryconsultancy.co.uk
for more details.

There are also a number of books available which focus on how to write for children. Many of these are listed in the Children’s Writer’s & Artist’s Yearbook (A&C Black).

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