by Jill McDougall

If you want to write for children, this is the “must-have” book for your professional library.
Marg McAlister

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I started writing seriously in 2001. That’s not long ago for someone who’s on the grey side of 50.

As I write this six years later, I have just had my 100th children’s book accepted for publication.

THAT’S RIGHT - 100 books in six years!

Don’t get me wrong - I’m not talking about 100,000 word novels. I’m talking about writing that pays well but is quick to produce. The list includes easy readers for schools, chapter books, novels for tweens, articles, poems, plays, non-fiction books, local histories … I’ve had all of these published and more.
Find out more here…

Jill was kind enough to send me a review copy of her manual, and the truth is, its bloody good! While I am not much of  a fan of “amazing secrets revealed…” hype, whats inside this book really is worth having. As a well published author, Jill has many insights into the writing and publishing business. As a writing tutor, Jill has seen and heard every newbie question and mistake there is, and found the solutions which are clearly laid out in this book.

The chapter ” Don’t write something no one will publish” is a must read for any writer interested in childrens books. “Advice from a Publisher” should probably be printed out and stuck on the wall above your writing desk. “Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them” is a little writing 101 but still a valuable reminder which should be re read before you submit any new piece.

If you read and heed the advice in this book, and you put in the hard yards, I have no doubt this book will be of great value to you. There is a passion and humour that runs through this book that should inspire you.

There is a fairly extensive resource section at the end of the book listing various groups, blogs, publishers and other writing resources. While this is useful, I would prefer these type of resources to be on a website where they can be maintained, given the fickle nature of the internet.

Overall a highly recommended purchase. Grab a copy now>>