The Kidlitter

 A rebus story is written for the beginning reader using pictures to help decode the meaning of the words. Some magazines use the picture and the written word, some use only the picture in place of the written word. A good rebus story is constructed like a well-told joke, complete with punch line at the end. When planning a rebus story, you must think of a simple story with few characters and lots of picturable nouns. 1.      Focus on a small anecdote, one event. Don’t waste words on setting up the situation. You don’t have the luxury of describing the scene, what the characters look like, or giving background information.  Start your story where the problem or action begins. Example: “Mouse had the hiccups.”  In four words we have the main character and his problem. The rest of the story will be how his problem is solved. 2.      Tight writing is the key. Your story must have engaging characters, a “si...

Did you know there are over 500 magazines for kids and families? And they all need material: stories, nonfiction articles, crafts, games, puzzles, poems, devotions, poems, recipes, action rhymes and short plays. Writing for a magazine is a great way to break into publishing. You get a faster response, some income, and a publishing credit you can "crow about" in your next cover letter. It's even helpful to publish in a non-paying market if you get a credit. I've published in a a dozen different publications over the years but most of my work has been in Highlights for Children and their preschool magazine, Highlights High Five. They have even pitched me work I didn't solicit once I was part of their stable of regular writers. It's been a great source of income AND my work is read by millions (yes, millions) of readers...even in China and Thailand where Highlights does special editions. But before you rush to send off your work to a magazine, take time to st...

I've been to five of these fabulous workshops. Lovely setting, great food, and top-notch presenters.They have workshops on picture books, novels, fantasy, science, character development, plotting, poetry, educational markets and much more. Scholarships are also available. Check it out: http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/upcoming-workshops/