First-time Authors: 64 Children's Writers' First Published Pieces--with Authors' And Editors' Commentaries

by Pamela Glass Kelly

A unique collection of 64 writers who achieved their first publishing successes, the stories and articles they wrote, and why the editors said yes.

Genres: Writing

240 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2006

Reviews

[J.L. Slipak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I absolutely loved when I first started writing for children. With all books on advice out there, some of the materials inside are similar. However, what I liked the most about this particular book is how it's laid out. First you get the article that a writer wrote. Once you've read that, you get a backstory from the author about the article, or what they did to get published.

Then, you get a commentary from the Editor who published the story. They explain their thoughts about the article, what attracted them to it and why they felt it was worth publishing. The best part about this, is that you can add to your notebook fantastical contact and submission information for submitting your articles to magazines to make money. The helpful insights given from the editor show you exactly what each magazine is look for. If you want inspirational snipits from authors who are published in children's magazines, and helpful hints and contact info from editors, then this book is an invaluable resource to add to your bookshelf.

I highly recommend it!

[Jenny T · Rating 3 out of 5]

This collection of first published children's stories is good for studying young, intermediate, and older children's fiction and nonfiction. It includes both author and publisher notes and tips about choices made in a story's creation and how it made it to a magazine. In this volume, I especially liked the teen story "Summer of Change." I can't think of any others that really stand out although most are great models of children's writing.

I think I'm a decent children's writers from some of the short stories I had published for an assessment company, but I want to fine-tune the details and move into meaningful and realistic transitions. I purchased the Children's Writing Long Ridge (Institute of Writers) guides, and would like to use them to get some more work published!

[Sherrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book so far. The authors of these first time stories give great advice on writing and how to get your story sold. What I love most about this book is the Editors advice. What better way to get an insight on what they are looking for from a writer!!!