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 »
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
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