Resources for young writers

Many of your biggest readers will also be drawn to writing stories of their own. Here are three resources to support these student scribblers.

Resources to support these student scribblers.

Paper hearts: some writing advice by Beth Revis

Paper hearts: some writing advice by Beth Revis is available for free on Wattpad. The bestselling author of Across the Universe talks about her own writing journey (she wrote ten books before she got published) and gives advice on writing (plot, character, etc.) as well as how to get published (the role of an agent). The chapters are short and it’s easy to navigate – some great tools here for teachers AND young writers!

The imaginary world of… by Keri Smith

Anyone who teaches writing should get several copies of The imaginary world of… by Keri Smith. Smith (author of Wreck this journal) has created an “Imaginary World Toolkit” that guides writers as they create a world of their very own. The entire book is a journal, and you start by creating a “database” of things you are drawn to, for example books, movies, colours or objects. You then move on to creating your world’s historical artefacts, holidays, businesses…even writing a traveller’s guide! Smith encourages drawing and collage as well as writing, so this book would work for a wide variety of students. I think young writers who are drawn to Science Fiction and Fantasy would find this especially fun and useful.

First draft with Sarah Enni

First draft with Sarah Enni is an incredible podcast young writers will love. Enni, a writer and a journalist, recently spent a few months on an epic road trip around the US, driving over 6,000 miles and interviewing over 40 Young Adult and Middle Grade authors. She asked them questions about their lives, their publishing journeys, and their creative processes. Readers will appreciate the insight into favourite authors’ lives and writers will find plenty of inspiration and practical tips. (Young writers may find the Meagan Spooner episode especially interesting as she discusses her start writing fan fiction as a teenager!)

What are some of your favourite resources for young writers?