Kidlit 101

Have you always wanted to write for kids but don’t know where to start? Do you already have a manuscript but are having trouble nailing the voice or piecing together the storyline? “Kidlit, or juvenile fiction, is a huge part of the publishing market, and writing for kids is tricky but fun!” says instructor Lisa Moore Ramee. “We’ll play with writing our own stories for kids, and I’ll share tips and advice for navigating this unique market.”

This 3-week course is designed for anyone who wants to write for kids, whether you have questions about where to start, or are wondering how to take your manuscript to the next level. Through in-class exercises, you’ll mine your own youthful mishaps for story ideas and experiment with writing relatable characters and believable dialogue–two key elements in writing for kids. For inspiration and jumping off points for your own writing, Lisa will share some of her favorite excerpts from authors such as Angie Thomas, Renee Watson and Erin Entrada Kelly. You’ll also voluntarily share your work in class to test your stories and get practice giving and receiving light feedback. 

The class will also explore the children’s publishing world, looking at examples of several subgenres such as Chapter Books, Middle Grade, and Young Adult fiction. “We’ll learn industry lingo and the ‘rules’ governing the various types of subgenres (and subgenres within the subgenres),” says Lisa. “Reading great books for kids will help us to figure out how to write great books for kids.” 

At the end of three weeks, through the class experience and voluntary writing at home, you’ll get a sense of the kind of children’s story you’d like to write and the know-how to comfortably start (or finish!) your Kidlit manuscript.

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

In-person class schedules are subject to sudden change or cancellation due to Covid. We will communicate any course changes to you as quickly as possible. Masking, social distancing, and other Covid measures will be enforced in accordance with local guidelines. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.