We’ve all read picture books that just seemed not quite right – the subject matter was too obscure for a board book; the illustrations were too detailed to use in a group. Avoid these mismatches by taking a moment when you write (or revise) to picture the person or group who will most enjoy it. That decision will govern your word choice and count, tone and approach – even if you are writing a book about dogs!
1 Family one-on-one
The subject matter is not as important as the experience of snuggling together and sharing. Board books, pop-ups, and interactive sound books are popular. A dog story might review the actions of a puppy all day and the snuggle next to mom for the night.
Spot Says Goodnight by Eric Hill
2 Discussion topics for a family setting
The subject matter is specific to the child and situation. Topics may be divorce or bullies, sharing, emotions, school behavior. There will often be suggested questions for discussion or opportunities to follow up. A dog story might be fear of dogs and how to approach one safely.
The Not-So-Scary Dog by Alanna Propst
3 Small group school sharing
The subject matter will be specific to the group’s interest: dinosaurs, community issues, learning about other cultures. A dog story might compare the work dogs do in different parts world or use dogs to teach math concepts.
Dozens of Dachshunds: a Counting, Woofing, Wagging Book by Stephanie Calmenson
4 Group read aloud
The subject matter is not as important, but the best (and repeated) read-aloud books have several common traits: simple pictures, limited text, humor, surprises, rhythmic language.
The dog story might be about a teeny dog who attempts tasks humorously too big for him but finally discovers what only a small dog can do.
Dachshund Through the Snow by Michelle Medlock Adams
So, before you write the dog story (or folk tale or biography), take a minute to imagine the listener. That extra step may move your story to First Place. Woof!
Robin Currie learned story sharing by sitting on the floor, in children’s sermons, and in library storytimes. Robin has sold 1.7 M copies of her 30 Bible storybooks and writes stories to read and read again! How to Dress a Dinosaur is available now! How to Dress a Dinosaur – Familius.com Shop
We love helping your growing in your writing career.
No Comments