School Library Journal Review

Gr 5-9-A practical, inspiring, how-to guide. In conversational language, Hambleton and Greenwood provide information on what it's like to be a writer, the time and tools needed to get started, definitions and examples of different genres, choosing topics, exercises, the writing process, how to get published, and career opportunities in the field. Short paragraphs, succinctly written, impart the information in small manageable segments. Important concepts are repeated throughout, but so subtly that readers will get the points without feeling as though they have been hit over the head with them. The examples used to emphasize ideas are contemporary, and will appeal to readers. Boxed, shaded areas offer definitions, sample letters and contracts, and interviews with both renowned authors and young writers. The book concludes with annotated lists of resources on writing and getting published, and lists of magazines and publishers (with contact information) that accept submissions from young authors. Information on writing contests is also provided. Different font sizes, use of bold and italics, and plenty of white space give the book a clean, uncluttered appearance. Small, black-and-white photo collages illustrate the text. There are two fill-in-the-blank lists and one page of journal ideas that the authors recommend readers cut out and glue "into the front of your journal for inspiration." A well-written, accessible title.-Kathleen Simonetta, Indian Trails Public Library District, Wheeling, IL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.