Writing a middle-grade novel can be a fun and challenging journey, filled with twists and turns, especially when you hit the mid-hump blues. Many writers struggle with the middle part of the story, often considered the most difficult to navigate. It’s where the initial excitement of the beginning has faded, but the climax and resolution…
Author: Karen Cioffi
Karen Cioffi is an award-winning author and children's ghostwriter. She loves to help those who want to be the author of a children's book fulfill their dream. Contact Karen today to get your story started!
Should Picture Book Authors Create Storyboards?
When it comes to crafting a picture book, the synergy between text and illustration is crucial. Picture books are unique because they rely heavily on visual storytelling and written words. This interdependence is usually thought of as a marriage and raises an important question: Should picture book authors create storyboards for their picture book manuscripts?…
10 Difficulties Common to New Novelists
Contributed by Suzanne LieuranceNew novelists often encounter a range of challenges (difficulties or hurdles to overcome) as they begin writing their book.Here are 10 of the most common problems you may face if you’re a new novelist, PLUS what to do about each one:Challenge #1. Writer’s Block. This is perhaps one of the most notorious…
Self-Publishing: Why Use Your Own ISBNs
As owner of Writers on the Move Self-Publishing Service, I tell clients that it’s in their best interest to get their own ISBNs. But why?In the world of self-publishing, one of the critical decisions an author faces is whether to use their own International Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs) or opt for generic ones provided by…
A Children’s Bestselling Author – Can You Become One?
Becoming a bestselling children’s author is a dream many hold, fueled by the idea of creating stories that enchant, educate, and entertain young readers.But can anyone truly achieve this goal? The path to success in children’s literature is complex, requiring creativity, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the audience. Let’s go through some of the…
10 Tips to Creating Immersive Settings
Creating a vivid and immersive setting is essential for engaging readers and bringing your story to life. Below are ten steps to help you do just that, each accompanied by examples to help illustrate the process.1. Understand the Role of SettingBefore diving into the specifics, it’s important to grasp how significant the setting is to…
So, What Can Go Wrong With Children’s Books Illustrations?
In my recent monthly newsletter, I discussed what can go wrong with children’s book illustrations and decided to delve deeper into the problems that can arise when working with unprofessional illustrators.Here’s how I started it in the newsletter:Word of advice: if you’re looking for your own children’s book illustrator, don’t assume the illustrations they show…
5 Types of Children’s Story Endings with Examples
Children’s stories often end in ways that leave a lasting impression on young readers. These endings can be happy, sad, moralistic, surprising, or open-ended, each providing a unique experience and lesson. Let’s dive into these different types of endings with some classic and contemporary examples.1. HAPPY ENDINGSHappy endings are the most common and cherished in…
How to Plot a Middle Grade Story – 10 Tips
While the basics of plotting are the same for all stories, crafting a children’s middle grade story involves a balance of creativity, structure, and understanding the unique perspective of young readers. Middle grade (MG) books are typically aimed at children aged 8 to 12, which is a period marked by significant emotional and cognitive development….
Are You an Amateur Writer? How to Tell
Amateur writers make some common ‘rookie’ mistakes. But how do you know if you’re making these writing mistakes?