Nonfiction for Kids Is BIG!

In the publishing world nonfiction is a hot item at this time. For both children’s magazines and books (especially picture books) nonfiction has more publishing options than fiction. So, if you love research, writing nonfiction might be the way to go.

Current children’s magazines are always looking for great nonfiction pieces. But they must be well researched, well documented and well written. If you are an illustrator or photographer offering visuals with your magazine articles is a huge plus.

Whether for books or magazines however, there is one critical rule to always obey: 

Present only verifiable facts. Do not add any made-up conversations or situations to your nonfiction manuscripts. Adding such imaginary bits transform your manuscript from nonfiction to informational writing, or to historical or bibliographic fiction.

TIPS

Many of the techniques we use in great fiction also make for great nonfiction. Here are a few tips:

• Start with a blast—jump into the article with a true anecdote, amazing facts or questions.
• Add humor—even heavy topics can become appealing by adding a little humor.
• Surprise!—adding elements of surprise will keep our readers tuned in until the finish.
• Zero in on the unusual—especially with familiar topics we need to keep researching deeper and deeper until we find something unique, brand new, curious or little-known about the subject of our article or book.
• Use dynamic language—strong verbs and nouns, and a strong voice can make nonfiction just as riveting as fiction.

REMEMBER

• Document all sources you use with complete bibliographic information. Photocopy the actual pages you use from magazines and books. Print out information you get from websites.
• Avoid online information and encyclopedias, if possible. Emphasize facts you get from books on your subject.
• Use the most recent research available.
• Stick to verifiable FACTS.
• No anthropomorphism.
• If your research is boring to you, your article or book is going to bore readers. Choose subjects you find interesting.

DIG DEEPER

For tons of great information about writing nonfiction for kids check out these sources.

The Institute of Children’s Literature Podcasts also available FREE on iTunes.

SCBWI The Book for members of SCBWI.

Mentors for Rent  (searchable)

Nancy I. Sanders (searchable)

Evelyn B. Christensen

Creative Nonfiction

Celebrate Science “Behind the Books: Finding Photos for Nonfiction Books”

Jean Hall lives in Louisville, Kentucky. She is represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary. Her premier picture book series Four Seasons was recently signed by Little Lamb Books. Jean is a member of the SCBWI, Word Weavers International, and the Kentucky Christian Writers. Visit Jean at jeanmatthewhall.com, on Facebook at Jean Matthew Hall, and on Twitter as @Jean_Hall.