"It is no easy feat to write for children considering the multitude of children's books available."

It is no easy feat to write for children, especially if you consider the multitude of children's books available today on the market. If you are successful in completing your manuscript, the next step is its publication and bringing it to market.

In order to facilitate your task a must acquisition is the 2003 Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market.

This annual directory is bigger, thicker and longer than most similar guides and probably one of the most comprehensive for authors of children's literature.

One of the key features of this book is the many well- chosen helpful essays that provide advice on such topics as: learning proper procedures, formats, and protocol for the publishing industry: tips on proper procedures and manuscript formats: questions about all-right contracts: ABC's of writing for children: revising: conferences. You will also be introduced to many successful authors of children's literature who share their thoughts, insights and experiences such as Lemony Snicket, Kate DiCamillo, Stephen Roxburgh Verla Kay, Alma Fullerton, Lisa Rondinelli Albert, Esther Hershenhorn, Hope Vestergaard, all of whom have written highly acclaimed children's books and are known as the who's who of children's publishing. It is as if you would be networking at a writer's conference or workshop where you are exposed to invaluable, useful and timely information pertaining to the craft of children's writing.

The well researched section dealing with the various markets pertaining to book publishers, magazines, greeting cards, puzzles and games, play publishers, producers and your writer's and illustrator's markets, is guaranteed to provide an invaluable resource to the novice or seasoned professional. Each and every listing is as complete as possible providing names, phone numbers, addresses, email addresses, web sites, payment schedules, contact information, genre, and general tips pertaining to submissions. Moreover, there is a listing of more than eight hundred editors and art directors who are all available to consider your work.

A very interesting and unique feature and one that you don't often see in directories of a similar nature is the listing of contests, awards and grants. As indicated in the book, "publication is not the only way to get your work recognized. Contests and awards can also be great ways to gain recognition in the industry." I am willing to wager a bet that not many writers of children's literature are aware of these awards and grants.

Finally, the substantial index is a welcome feature as it divides itself into three parts, age-level, subject and general for easy reference. Definitely the book is one you should not be without if you are a writer of children's literature.

Reviewed by Norman Goldman
Posted November 12, 2002