Writing for Children and Teensby Cynthea Liu

Favorite Writing Books in my Personal LibraryFor any writer
For a great mechanics refresher, have a copy of The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition handy. If you ask any writer who’s been at this for a while, I can guess that nearly 90% of the time, they’ll recommend this book.

Of course, you should also have Writing for Children and Teens: A Crash Course, the fabulous book that captures all the lovely content on this website and more!

For novelists
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers, Second Edition: How to Edit Yourself Into Print is one of my personal favorites if you want to write a great children’s fiction novel. It really delivers exactly what the book is titled.

For something inspirational and entertaining to read, packed with useful advice, try Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life. This is another favorite among writers.

On Writing by Stephen King will make you feel better if you’re not much of an outlining type of writer. Plus this book is just interesting. Again, always makes it to the top five list of writer recommendations. (I personally have a signed copy. How cool is that?!)

For an excellent discourse on fiction writing theory, buy Stein on Writing: A Master Editor of Some of the Most Successful Writers of Our Century Shares His Craft Techniques and Strategies. This one doesn’t always make it to the Top Five list when you interview writers but I personally think this tome is one of the writing world’s best kept secrets. If you’re analytical like me, then you’ll love this one.

For easy reader writers
Do you wonder if a particular word in your text is too difficult or easy for the grade you are writing for? Then you HAVE TO own this book. Childrens Writers Word Book (Children’s Writer’s Word Book)

For inspiration

Read The ABC’s of Writing for Children: 114 Children’s Authors and Illustrators Talk About the Art, Business, the Craft, and the Life of Writing Children’s Literature if you want to see how a bunch of published authors feel about writing. Quite inspiring.

Where I Like to Buy Books Online

The site nearly every one flocks to for books is Amazon.com. They are by far, the most comprehensive online bookseller that offers significant discounts off the cover price. You can also create wish lists, pre-order popular books, and purchase pretty much anything your heart desires. Shop till you drop! If you’re up north, then visit Amazon.com Canada. Across the pond? Try Amazon.com UK.

If you want something a little different and CHEAPER than Amazon, then you have to visit Overstock.com. If you can’t find your book, use this secret tip: Search using the ISBN!) Save Up To 80% Everyday On Childrens Books At Overstock.com!

Now here’s a real inside tip. If you’re looking for a book that might have been remaindered (pretty much any big-name title), then check out BookCloseouts.com. They offer crazy prices for new and scratch n’dents.

If shopping at all these places makes you want to gag, then you can always support your local independent bookstore with Booksense.com. You can even place an order and have your book picked up locally. Now how cool is that?

Best Place to Get Professional Business Cards (FOR FREE)

You’re going to want some when you go to conferences and other writerly events. The best place to get FREE professional-quality business cards on the Internet quickly is, by far, Vistaprint.com. I am extremely pleased with their product. (The matte finish also looks and feels great. No need to upgrade to the glossy or the 100-lb paper unless you really, really want to.) Don’t leave home without them!

Coolest Writer/Reader Gadgets

The LightWedge was brought to my attention when I was watching a fabulous episode of Oprah.  This handy device reduces eye-strain while reading and can even improve your bedtime relationship with your spouse! Every writer/reader should have one.