It doesn't seem long ago that I was writing a post to announce the publication of the 2010 edition of the Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook. How time flies when you're having fun...That's not far from the truth when it comes to the Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook. I love putting this book together for the simple reason that I love what's in it. I truly think the content is more than good - it's great: a great (understated) book dedicated to the children's publishing market.
Why understated? Answer: the contributors. Their names deserve to be shouted from the rooftops.
Nowhere else will you find so many talented, award winning, acclaimed children's authors all in one place, each writing about their work and offering their own brand of advice for children's writers who are yet to break into the market.
Jacqueline Wils
on reveals details about her first experience of writing success; Anthony Horowitz gives top tips for writing horror for children; Anne Fine discusses the ins and outs of books to read aloud; Raymond Briggs talks about creating graphic novels. It's a long list ...What's new for the 2011 edition?
As well as lots of new and updated listings, there are new articles from authors Francesca Simon and Michael Rosen, illustrator Emily Gravett, Children's Laureate Anthony Browne and publisher David Fickling. There is also a new foreword by the (marvellous) Quentin Blake.
Each and every one of the articles is an entertaining and informative read. This book is indispensable for a children's author - and all the contributing authors agree.
As an aside, we've dedicated this edition to Russell Ash who died unexpectedly in June 2010. Russell, author of many books, wrote for the Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook since its very first edition and he and his work will be sadly missed by the publishing industry.
So, all you children's writers out there who haven't seen a copy of the Children's' Writers' & Artists' Yearbook - CHECK IT OUT (said with emphasis, I don't shout very often).
Warm wishes, Jo
To buy a copy of the Children's Writer's & Artists' Yearbook 2011 at a discount, click here »
Xean Puccio on September 24, 2010
Congratulations Jo! Keep up the good work and don't forget the having fun part.
My respects for Russell. It becomes difficult to see when the bright sun that shines all day goes to sleep at night, but it always rises again to light our way.
Xean (Writing during life change)
9/24/2010
Margaret Thurston on October 20, 2010
just one query!. Apart from the articles by established writers does the book include lists of available publishers similar to the conventional Writers and Artists year book please?
Jo Herbert on October 21, 2010
Hi Margaret, it most certainly does. The Children's Yearbook contains listings for publishers, agents, bookshops, societies, festivals, prizes and many more. It also contains articles from all sorts of people in the children's publishing business (not just authors) all offering info and advice. Should you decide to get a copy, I'm sure you'll find it contains pretty much all you need. All best, Jo
jan cronin on November 1, 2010
I dislike the idea of publishers using the word 'twee' when writing for young children. I, and many other adults I have spoken to would prefer
to see and hear young children reading animated stories which would not include the use of violence and aggression, in order to be the 'hero of
the day.'
Enid Blyton stories were based on the good in moral upbringing, and I think this should still be adhered to. After all, good manners were not just for the children of the 40's and 50's era.
I love writing for young children, and a lot of good honest morality can still be taught through storytelling.