Workshop: An Introduction to Writing for Children and Young Adults
“Look
at picture books as scenes in a play.” Phyllis Root
Types
We
don’t always think of genre in picture books, however even the youngest versions
still have different types and a wide range of interests.
1. A storybook is a pre-schoolers’ version of
a novel.
2. A concept is 1/2 way between essay and
advertisement; it explores an idea.
3. An information book is like a young child’s
encyclopedia.
How
do you decide which one you are drawn to write? If you have a strong
imagination and love to tell stories, then a storybook is a good place to
start. If you are interested in explaining ideas and are a little philosophical,
then try a concept book. If you are a curious collector and lover of facts and
enjoy exploring the world around you, then information books might be a fun
fit.
Interests
To
a young child everything is new. They love the books that connect especially to
their world. I have lost the reference note as to where this list originally
came from but it is an excellent reminder to identify with the voice and
emotional perspectives of toddlers and pre-school ages.
Subjects
include: “animals, everyday excitements
such as trucks, stoves, marching bands, relationships with siblings, parents,
grandparents, and monsters who spill milk and keep children awake at night.
Three year olds are interested in the bathroom, spilling, making a mess, and making
fun of adults.”
Be
prepared for the unexpected ideas as well. I had taken my grandsons for a walk
and parked the stroller’s emergency brake as I went to help my older one. And
suddenly heard the two-year old gasp loudly. I quickly turned around and saw
him mesmerized by the sight of the waterfall, that I had forgotten he had never
seen before. For days afterwards he wanted to see pictures of waterfalls. I
know if I ever write a story for him there must be a waterfall somewhere in the
setting.
When
you can find your own place in the story and your interests as well, then the
more depth and originality you will be able to convey. Plus your own personal
curiosity will sustain you throughout the whole process.
Action Steps:
Note
that the action movement should go from left to right. Think in scenes rather
than lines as you read.
1. Make a library visit to the picture book area and pick out a random
number. Then, without reading any content, scroll through and see if you can
identify them according to the categories above. Upon what details did you make
your decision?
2. Read at least two or three in each category. What differences do you
notice in presentation both verbally and visually?
3. Choose one category that interests you the most and find five or six
books to take home for study over the next few weeks. This week make a mini
chart and note the similarities and differences among them.
Share: What is one of your favorite
picture books? Why?
Read deep, marcy
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