I was lucky and was referred by a friend who wrote for them. I still had to “try out” with a writing sample, however.
Nevin
2 years ago
Chapter books often rely on humor to maintain reader interest. Did you do anything beyond reading other chapter books to kid-test the humorous moments? What about making sure the problems were realistic kid problems–do you feel you just have a good sense of that or do you do anything special to reality-test your ideas?
I didn’t intentionally try to make the stories humorous, although yes, there are some humorous bits. I didn’t have kid beta-readers. I think I just relied on my inner-age and strong memories of my childhood. I also have a critique group/writing partners who read my drafts and offer feedback – that helps. 🙂
Thank you for an insightful interview! Would you say you’re a plotter or pantser as far as your writing process and have you taken any specific KIDlit courses that have “taught” you how to write for this genre?
How did you connect with/find the work-for-hire team? Thanks!
I was lucky and was referred by a friend who wrote for them. I still had to “try out” with a writing sample, however.
Chapter books often rely on humor to maintain reader interest. Did you do anything beyond reading other chapter books to kid-test the humorous moments? What about making sure the problems were realistic kid problems–do you feel you just have a good sense of that or do you do anything special to reality-test your ideas?
I didn’t intentionally try to make the stories humorous, although yes, there are some humorous bits. I didn’t have kid beta-readers. I think I just relied on my inner-age and strong memories of my childhood. I also have a critique group/writing partners who read my drafts and offer feedback – that helps. 🙂
So helpful! Thanks for the list of mentor texts and for sharing your journey. I love the details of your chapter book study.
Thank you! 🙂
Thank you for your explanation of exactly what a chapter book is and where it fits into kid lit.
Glad to be able to help out!
Thank you for an insightful interview! Would you say you’re a plotter or pantser as far as your writing process and have you taken any specific KIDlit courses that have “taught” you how to write for this genre?