Writing for children

In the last few weeks we've had a good smattering of guest blogs from all around the company, covering a variety of genres and lists. Today we introduce the next in this series, from an editor who works on HC's prestigious Children's list. Based in our New York office, Erica sits on the authonomy editorial board and has a lot of experience in the field of children's publishing.

Working in children’s publishing can be a funny thing sometimes. People outside of the industry often assume that “children’s books” automatically means “picture books.” While many of my co-workers specialize in picture books, I work mostly on novels – middle grade and teen fiction. When I mention that to friends or acquaintances, however, I am often met with the belief that children’s books can never be as intense, literary, or important as adult books.

Au contraire! I am often amazed by the incredible literature that I am presented with as an editor of children’s books. The best middle grade and teen novels are insightful and delightful –true works of art. As a leading children’s publisher, HarperCollins looks to publish books that stand out from the pack: novels with a knockout new way of looking at the world, a fresh, believable hook, and, above all, a standout voice. (Yes, that all-important voice, which other editors have blogged about on Authonomy, is ever so important in the children’s world, too). We look for manuscripts that will pull a young reader in to their pages and never let go— books that will stay with them long after the last page is turned.

While most submissions have many good qualities to recommend them, there are a few red flags that I look for when reviewing potential projects. One of my pet peeves is reading a novel that sounds like it’s been written by an adult talking to a child. I also get frustrated when writers use dialogue that sounds very much of the adult author’s time – there’s no need for a steady stream of slang from your characters, but they should definitely sound like kids and not like adults.

One activity that is always helpful if you’re trying to break into the children’s market is going to the bookstores and checking out the books that are successful. (I’d recommend starting with the bestsellers and recent award winners.) What works about them? Why do you think they’ve found their niche? Try to look at your work with the same kind of analytical eye – what kind of readers will devour your story? What will they love about it? What might give them pause? Once you can see where your book would fit on the shelves, you’re well on your way!

Good luck!