How to Be a Young #Writer
not part of a series
What’s inside...
This is an authoritative book from the word experts at Oxford to get budding writers crafting brilliant stories. It will help you think about how to develop an idea into a gripping and powerful story, with examples and tips from the best known authors to show you how it's done. For children aged 11 and over, it covers all the key elements of plot, characterization, building a believable world, thinking about tone and style, weaving description into stories, through to endings and editing your work. Practical tips will get any struggling writer to beat the fear of the blank page and inspirational advice will help young authors to achieve their creative writing goals. It includes information on sharing stories and how to get people reading your work.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-18
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What new ideas did you learn about writing from this book?
Which author mentioned in the book inspires you the most and why?
Can you think of a story you'd like to write? What would it be about?
How do you think practicing writing might help you in school and other areas of your life?
What do you think are the most important qualities a writer should have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in the writing styles and authors your child finds intriguing.
Encourage your child to describe a favorite part of the book, and discuss how it could be incorporated into their own writing.
Discuss the challenges and rewards of writing, sharing your own experiences where relevant.
Offer to co-create a short story with your child, alternating turns to develop the plot.
Praise any efforts your child makes to express themselves through writing, emphasizing the value of practice and perseverance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The book guides young writers through exercises that encourage the creation of original stories, fostering an imaginative mindset.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in school projects or personal hobbies, enhancing their ability to think creatively in various aspects of life.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Discipline
Explanation: Through tips on handling writer's block and developing a writing routine, the book teaches the importance of persistence and disciplined practice.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children adhere to routines and work consistently towards their goals, both academic and personal.
Example Lesson: Effective Communication
Explanation: The book provides insights on structuring stories and developing characters, which are essential skills for clear and engaging communication.
Real-World Application: These communication skills can be beneficial in verbal and written expressions at school, within family interactions, and later in professional environments.
Example Lesson: Confidence Building
Explanation: By encouraging young writers to express their thoughts and stories, the book helps build self-esteem and confidence in their abilities.
Real-World Application: Increased confidence can lead to greater participation in class, willingness to share ideas, and general assertiveness in social settings.
Example Lesson: Respect for Intellectual Property
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of citing sources and respecting others’ work, which aligns with ethical writing practices.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of honesty and integrity in academics and beyond, preventing plagiarism and promoting ethical behavior.