A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication

I am going through Ann Whitford Paul's book, "Writing Picture Books," now, and I love it. It's teaching me more about writing rich, layered books that I ever could've learned on my own. I'm actually using it as a textbook, taking notes, making the signs to post by my computer as she suggests, reading the books she refers to, and doing the homework "before you go on" activities at the end of each chapter.

I've been struggling with two historical fiction stories that aren't all rainbows and unicorns. I really feared the stories weren't tell-able to children, even though many kids today have ancestors who went through the same hardships. And then I read in chapter 1 about how stories don't always have to be happy, and now it's finally coming together.

Ann Whitford Paul's book is a primer on writing picture books written in natural, conversational language. The last words in her book remind us that no matter how busy or distracted or discouraged we might get, our mission is to inspire emerging readers. That higher calling speaks to me and to many of my fellow writers and writers-to-be. If like me, you need more than just platitudes and generalities, then you'll add Ms. Paul's book to your reference collection.

An excellent book about the craft of picture book writing. However, it lacks visual reference. Picture book writers MUST consider the visual nature structure of their stories--even if they themselves are not illustrators. Picture books (by design) are visually driven; therefore I was disappointed that this aspect was largely overlooked.

However, I found another title on the store that is the perfect visual "companion" to this book--one that illustrates the points made by Ms. Whitford Paul: ILLUSTRATING CHILDREN'S BOOKS http://www.the store.com/gp/product/1582976201/ref=wms_ohs_product_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Don't let the title mislead you; this book offers as much advice to writers as it does illustrators. Together, both books present the big picture with regard to this complex artform.

This book is a writing course between covers, taught by the experienced mentor and writer Ann Whitford Paul. You can almost hear her speaking to you as you read, encouraging you, warning you of pitfalls, urging you to look at things in a new way. The book's subtitle, "A Hands-On Guide From Story Creation to Publication," is accurate: it is very thorough, and full of practical exercises and suggestions. I would have loved to have had it when I first started writing picture books, but even with a couple of published books under my belt I still find it invaluable, especially during the editing process, when I get to explore all the mistakes I didn't notice in that exhilarating rush of writing the first draft.

This book is a fantastic contemporary resource for picture book writers! Even those who know the basics will find the author's memorable examples, such as her creative manipulations of The Goose with the Golden Eggs, to illuminate time-honored principles in very useful ways. In addition, Ms. Paul provides many unique tactics to help identify and fix writing shortfalls. I also found that, where other books have failed to provide straight-forward explanations of voice, rhythm, and verse, this book presented the topics with simplicity and clarity. Ms. Paul's countless references to modern picture book examples make it easy for the writer to do the most essential writing task - read really good picture books! The book's use of modern examples also naturally focuses the reader/writer on what works in today's market. I probably consult the book at least once or twice a week and plan to do so for a long time!

As an aspiring writer of children's nonfiction picture books, I often find books about writing to be too focused on fiction. There is too much focus on character development, plot structure, etc. However, Ann Whitford Paul's book is a breath of fresh air. Her chapters on POV, openings, plotting and endings are helpful regardless of whether you are writing fiction or nonfiction. I borrowed this book from the library and took notes, but found there was just too much useful information. I had to buy it.

There are many reasons why writers are drawn to picture books. Near the top of the list is sharing a by-line with an illustrator. Being able to communicate with the youngest listener is another. Certain beginning writers, however, are attracted to the genre because these books are short. 'Simple,' as Ann Paul tells us, does not equal 'simplistic.' The proof resides inside the nearly 250 pages it takes to discuss the various aspects of crafting a successful 2 - 5 page manuscript. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this hands-on guide is a reference must.

There are many books about writing for children, but this is the only one that specifically addresses the form, structure and special demands of the picture book so thoroughly. It's clearly written, well-organized, practical, encouraging and chock full of information. Many of Paul's students have become published authors; she knows how to teach writing. I've recommended this book to everyone who's told me they want to write picture books.

This author has written 70 children's picture books and knows what she is writng about. She has taught children's writing classes at UCLA and brings her expertice to this book to help budding authors like myself. I found her book very helpful and instructive in writing my own children's book. She has put together perscriptions to help others who wish to be published. I highly recommend this book. If you have questions contact me at [...]

I've published picture books, run picture book workshops, and written writing books of my own. And I've read a lot of books on writing. This is one of the very best. The author tells the truth, even when it's difficult, and her warm, encouraging tone throughout keeps it all upbeat. Anyone who follows the "to do" list at the end of each chapter is guaranteed to make progress in this challenging field. Experienced writers will benefit from the book as an honest, helpful refresher course.

A friend suggested asking myself, "What would Ann Whitford Paul do?" every time I get writer's block, editorial fatigue, or just plain stuck. That is wonderful advice!

Ann's genre-specific guide for children's book authors is thorough, practical, encouraging, fun to read, and easy to reference, making it the perfect resource.

This a must-read comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to write picture books. What a great tool to have a source devoted solely to the creation of picture books. The author, Ann Paul, covers every facet in the most helpful ways. It's like taking a whole course and has been immensely helpful for me.