The Craft of Writing for Children

Visiting Book Fairs and Conference Exhibit Halls —Why, Where, and How?

Attending book fairs and publishing conferences can provide unique opportunities for children’s book authors and illustrators to learn about their industry, the marketplace, and to network with publishers, freelancers, and others on whom they depend for successful careers.

Create a World with Your Five Senses

Using the five senses as you create the world your character inhabits makes it real and compelling to your readers.

A Fantastic Example of ‘Show, Don’t Tell’

How the writers of HBO’s Westworld pulled off a masterful bit of “show, don’t tell” – and what you can learn from it.

Laura Backes on Writing Picture Books- Full Webinar Replay

Here’s the complete webinar from July 7, in which Children’s Book Insider publisher Laura Backes reveals her biggest picture book writing insights. She also hosts a 30 minute “Ask me Anything” session that’s packed with great picture book writing advice.

There’s also a sneak preview of our upcoming tool Picture Book Blueprint.

Get Started Writing for Kidlit Magazines

Jane Choate has hundreds of magazine credits. Here’s her best advice about getting started in this exciting market.

The Adventures of Dan Santat: A Conversation with the Caldecott-winning Author & Illustrator

Our exclusive interview with author/illustrator Dan Santat, winner of the 2015 Caldecott Medal for The Adventures of Beekle: An Unimaginary Friend

Writing Is Easier When You Stop Trying So Hard

Struggling to make progress with your writing? Maybe you need to step back and take a breath. Here’s how…

Author Alice Kuipers on How Writing Picture Books Makes Her a Better Novelist

Alice Kuipers, the award-winning young adult author, sat down with Laura Backes to chat about her transition to picture book writer, and how writing picture books helps authors learn the craft for every age.

Ask Writer Alice: Three Top Picture Book Writing Mistakes

Best-selling author Alice Kuipers reveals the three mistakes you should avoid as an aspiring picture book writer.

Teens Review What Works, What Doesn’t in New Books

In this article from School Library Journal, five reviewers, ranging in age from 12 to 15, give their thoughts on the latest books from popular authors. A must-read for anyone writing middle grade and young adult fiction.