A.G. McEvoy

Children's Easter Books

2009-04-07T20:37:00.000-07:00

Here are four books to read with your children. Happy Easter!

Peanut Butter Easter Eggs

2009-03-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

INGREDIENTS
1 (16 ounce) package confectioners' sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 tablespoon milk
8 (1 ounce) squares semi-sweet chocolate
1 tablespoon shortening

DIRECTIONS
In a mixing bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, peanut butter, butter and milk (if needed for moisture) until blended. Shape mixture into two 1/2 pound eggs or make a bunch of smaller eggs. Freeze eggs for 1 hour.
While the eggs are freezing, cut semi-sweet chocolate into small pieces and place in top of double boiler with shortening. Melt over medium heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Stick a long-tined fork in top of each peanut butter egg, dip it in melted chocolate to cover then drain on waxed paper. When the eggs are cooled and set, decorate the eggs to suit your fancy.

Help Your Child Find a Book – 6 Steps to Choose Just Right Books

2009-03-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

Finding a book that is appealing and the appropriate reading level for a child can be a daunting task. Sometimes kids don’t want to take a risk and read material for which they are clearly ready. Other times children will choose books that are far beyond their capabilities. Here are six easy steps for parents to follow when helping their child choose appropriate level reading material. These steps will become second nature for children when they begin to independently pick their own books.

1. Look at the cover -- The cover will provide the reader with some idea as to character, setting, and plot. Remember the old adage, however, and don’t judge a book by its cover, alone. Follow the next 5 steps as well to see if this is going to be a book that will interest the reader.

2. Read the title and the author -- Read over the title and the author with your child. Maybe this book is by an author that the child has heard or read before and really enjoys. Sometimes children don’t always pick out the author’s name and it is good for an adult to make sure they understand where to locate the author on the cover. This same rule extends to the illustrator as well.

3. Read the blurb in the back – The short synopsis found at the back of most books will give the child an idea of what is going on in the book. It will also provide just enough information to get the reader to read the entire book to find out what else happens in the story.

4. Flip through the book – Look through the book. Notice any illustrations. Take note of the spacing and letter size. These are all good indicators of level of book. The more spacing and bigger letter size is indicative of younger age level. (Unless it is for the visually impaired).

5. Read the first page – Read the first page through with your child to see if the book is one that he/she would still like to choose.

6. Use the 5 Finger Rule – Flip to any page in the book. Have your child read down the page and place a finger on words they do not know.

0-1 fingers – Too Easy
2-3 fingers – Just Right
4-5 fingers – Too Hard

By following the above steps, you should be on your way to finding a book that is not only enjoyable but at the right level for your child. Happy reading!

A Crash of Rhinos, A Party of Jays The Wacky Ways We Name Animal Groups

2009-03-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

Written by: Diane Swanson

Illustrations by: Mariko Ando Spencer

Hardback: 12 pages

Ages: 4-8 years

Publisher: Annick Press (USA) Ltd.

ISBN: 978-1-55451-048-1

Publication: 2006

Ever wonder what a group of clams, giraffes or pheasants are called? This book, A Crash of Rhinos, A Party of Jays, tells about the names given to the groups of 11 different animals. There is a short description about the habits and habitats of each animal. There is also a “neat to know” section with interesting facts.

On each page there is both an actual photograph and a humourous watercolour picture. This is an entertaining and educational short book for the younger set.

A Beginning, A Muddle, And An End - The Right Way to Write Writing

2009-03-03T14:27:00.001-08:00

Written by: Avi

Illustrations by: Tricia Tusa

Hardback: 164 pages

Ages: All ages

Publisher: Harcourt, Inc.

ISBN: 978-0-15-205555-4

Publication: 2008

“You’re just playing with words,” said the tree frog, puffing herself up.
That, in a nutshell, is what this book is all about. A play on words. The award winning author, Avi, has taken the “who’s on first” idea to a whole new level with this humourous story.

Avon, a snail, and Edward, an ant, are friends. Avon is attempting to write something but all he can manage to produce is the word Something . The two friends have many adventures on their quest for Avon’s writing. Their journey leads them to meet up with the tree frog, an anteater and a hungry fish.
The book ends on a happy note as Avon is finally satisfied with what he has put down on paper.
This book has a message on many different levels, hence the “All Ages” category . With the generous spacing and frequent illustrations the 164 pages will not be onerous for younger readers and adults will enjoy the double entendre of much of the text.

Writing for Children Competitions

2009-02-27T18:56:00.000-08:00

Writing for Children Competition
Writers' Union of Canada
www.writersunion.ca

Description:Promoting new and emerging writers. Open to Canadian residents only. Accepts fiction or nonfiction entries targeting children of all ages.
Requirements:Entry Fee, $15. Multiple entries are accepted. Entries should not exceed 1,500 words.
Prizes:Winner recieves a cash prize of $1,500.
Deadline:April 24.

Magazine Merit Award
The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators

Description:This award honours outstanding stories and articles for young people that were published the provious calendar year.
www.scbwi.org
Requirements:No entry fee. Open to SCBWI members only.Visit the website for details.
Prizes:Winners in each category receive a plaque. Honour certificates are also awarded.
Deadline:Entries are accepted between January 31 and December 15 of each year.

Canadian Writer's Journal Short Fiction Contest
Canadian Writer's Journal
www.cwj.ca
Description:Accepts original, unpublished stories in any genre.
Requirements:Entry fee, $5. Entries should be approximately 1,200 words.Multiple entries are not accepted. Visit the website for complete information.
Prizes: First-place winner receives a cash prize of $100. Second-and third-place winners receive cash prizes of $50 and $25, respectively.
Deadline:September 30 and March 31.

St. Patrick's Day Wreath Craft

2009-02-25T13:43:00.000-08:00

Materials needed:
paper plate
glue
scissors
green paint or construction paper

1. Cut out the centre of the paper plate
2. Trace a child's hand onto either white or green paper
3. Make six to nine handprints.
4. Cut out the prints and glue to the outside of the paper plate.
5. You can decorate the wreath further with pictures. These can be:
-stickers
-hand drawn artwork by children
-pictuers from colouring books or magazines

For more craft ideas go to:www.dltk-holidays.com

2009-02-23T17:28:00.001-08:00

Title: Chester’s Back

Written and Illustrated by: Melanie Watt

Hardback: 30 pages

Ages: 4-8

Publisher: Kids Can Press Ltd.

ISBN: 978-1-55453-287-2

Publication: 2008

Look out! Chester’s back and he’s got his red marker. Chester, the lovable but mischievous cat, is again making life difficult for his author Melanie Watt. The book begins with the author trying to tell a story about a faraway land, long ago. Chester is the main character. But Chester doesn’t want to live in a fairytale. He thinks that is too boring. He wants to be a CAVE CAT! With his red marker, Chester tries to tell the story his way.

The book strikes a funny bone for readers of all ages, but 4-8 year olds can identify with Chester’s need for independence and having his own way. In the end, Chester has the last word.
The illustrations (and Chester’s red marker) are bright and delightful.

The Institute of Children's Literature

2009-02-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been thumbing through a magazine and found an advertisement for learning to write for children and thought “Maybe I could do that?” Well, that is exactly what happened to me. The idea of writing for children had been floating around in my brain for awhile and when I came across the advertisement for the Institute of Children’s Literature course I paused. Questions immediately came up like, “Would I have the time?” “How much would it cost?” and the inevitable, “Would I be any good at it?”
I was sure a friend had mentioned taking the same course a number of years ago, so I asked her what it was like and was it reputable. She had taken the course and enjoyed it although she did not pursue getting anything published. The advertisement also mentioned that the Institute was listed with the Better Business Bureau, which I thought was a good sign. I investigated this claim and found out the specifics of the business and how there had been only minimal complaints from clients and that any disagreements had been readily dealt with.
So with that information I took the plunge and signed up. That action led to two enjoyable courses. The first was the Writing for Children’s and Teenagers, followed by Writing and Selling Children’s Books. My instructors for both courses were knowledgeable and positive. They always left me feeling like what I was doing was worthwhile and gave me suggestions for improvement. The one aspect I really appreciated was flexibility with due dates. As a working mother of two I often had to write and ask for an extension which was never a problem. The first course I completed through the mail system while the second was through the internet. For speed the internet was much quicker but if that is not an option the postal system way is just as effective but there is a slower response time.
I would certainly encourage anyone who is thinking about writing for children to give the Institute’s courses a try. And don’t be concerned that this is just a money grabbing scheme. You are given an assessment at the very beginning before you are enrolled to see if writing really is for you. So if writing for children is something you have been considering watch for the advertisement or go online at http://www.institutechildrenslit.com/ to see what it’s all about!

A Prince's Diary

2009-02-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

by A. G. McEvoy
Originally published in the Brandon Sun, November 2007, and placed third in the newspaper's Words Alive Contest

April 12
Dear Diary

Man, oh man – it’s hard being a single Prince these days. My dad, the King, is constantly on my case about finding a wife. I don’t want a wife right now. A lot of my friends have recently gotten married so dear ol’ Dad thinks it’s time for me, too. He’s got a huge ball planned and he’s inviting every girl in the countryside to it. Wonderful. I think it’s time for me to take a vacation from my princely duties. Dad won’t be happy, but I’ll tell him I’ll be back before the grand soiree. I’m going to visit some of my old gang of friends – even if they are married. Maybe it will be good to see how the other half lives.

April 15
Dear Diary
Was warmly greeted by my good friend Prince Eddie and his wife Snow White. The two of them seem really happy together. She’s a sweet gal. Bakes a mean apple pie. And Eddie is one of the most patient guys I know. He has to be. As kind as Snow White is (I call her Whitey – makes her blush) she asked these 7 strange little men to come live with them after she and Eddie were married. She said she wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them. Eddie agreed to it because that’s the kind of guy he is. Don’t know if I’d be that agreeable. These men all have their peculiarities. One doesn’t say anything, just wiggles his ears at you when you speak to him, one sneezes all over you and another is just plain mean!

When I asked Eddie how things were going he says you have to make compromises when you get married – oh great – one good reason to stay single. I’m leaving tomorrow to visit Prince Philip and Princess Aurora.

April 18
Dear Diary
Made it to Philip and Aurora’s safe and sound. Now here’s a situation that I think needs some counseling. Philip has developed this thing for riding his trusted steed through rough bush and forests of thorn bushes – says it exhilarating – go figure. So all his clothes are full of holes. But the Mrs. – lovely Aurora – has this fear of needles of any kind – won’t sew a stitch – so they have these big arguments about her not supporting him by mending his clothes and she’s mad at him for riding off in the first place. Aurora will go complaining to these 3 spiny old fairies that live in the guest house. They keep poking their noses into everything. They got into a fight one day, started flinging their wands around and turned my horse into a skunk for a day! I’m cutting my visit here short – I’m leaving tomorrow for Eric and Ariel’s.

April 21
Dear Diary
Last of my friends to visit – and this union is the wackiest one yet. My dear friend, Eric, has found a real sweetheart, Ariel. But get this – she used to be a mermaid! Yes, you heard me, a mermaid! She traded in her tail for legs and walks around like the rest of us, but her family still lives under the sea. When Eric goes to visit the in-laws he has to wear full scuba gear. And one of Ariel’s friends is a really bossy crab I’d like to see declawed and . . . anyway, my vacation has come to an end. I’m less sold on marriage now than ever before. I’m heading back home tomorrow for that dreaded ball. I am not looking forward to it at all.

April 23
Dear Diary
I can’t believe it – It’s too good to be true! It’s a miracle. Last night, at the ball, every girl from the countryside was there, just like I knew there would be. I hate to say it, but there are some truly strange girls in this town. In particular these two rather gangly sisters and their overbearing mother who followed me around the whole night. Anyway – just when I thought I had finished meeting everyone and thinking what a waste of time this all was – there she was – standing in the archway – the moonlight cascading down over her soft shoulders and her blond hair – WOW – I went weak in the knees. I don’t know how I made it over to her to ask her to dance. We spent the rest of the night together. I couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was stunning, and a good dancer , too. Then the strangest thing happened. We were having a great conversation when she heard the clock chime for midnight and she gets up and runs off . It’s then I realize I don’t even know her name. But she’s left behind a clue. One glass slipper from her perfect foot. Dad is sending Jasper, his aide, out tomorrow to search the countryside for her. I told Dad this girl may be the one I’m looking for, so he’s pulling out all the stops.

April 25
Whew! crazy last few days. But guess what? Jasper found her! Her name is Cinderella, just as pretty as she is. Turns out the crazy sisters and mother from the ball were her step sisters and step mother – who treated her none to kindly – good riddance to them. I know she’s the girl I’ve been looking for. Sure she’s not perfect – she has her quirks. She really likes animals, mice in particular, but she’s kind and generous and can she clean and cook! I keep telling her to put the broom and saucepan down, we’ve got servants for that. She says old habits die hard. Dad really adores her. He thinks I’ve done well. I know I have. I’m very happy and I’m sure we’ll have a bright future together. And you want to know the best part? She makes the most fantastic pumpkin pie I’ve ever tasted. My favorite!

Six Tips to Help You Break into the Children's Magazine Markets with Your Non-Fiction for Kids!

2009-01-30T14:40:00.000-08:00

by Suzanne Lieurance

It's no secret that one of the best ways to break into the children's magazine markets is with nonfiction. So follow these 6 tips to have the best chance of acceptance with your short articles for children:

1. Study the markets - Each children's magazine is different, with a different style, voice, and variety of subject matter. Take time to study the markets you wish to submit to and you'll know which ones are the most appropriate for the articles that you wish to write.

2. Study Past Issues - Besides studying current issues of each publication you wish to write for, look at several past issues of each publication. Make a list of the various nonfiction article titles in each issue to get a "feel" for the way various authors narrowed their focus for each topic they wrote about. One of the big mistakes most beginning children's writers make with their nonfiction articles is that they don't narrow the focus of the article enough. If you want to write about camels, for example, don't propose an article that tells anything and everything about camels. Instead, focus on just ONE aspect about camels and develop your article around that.

3. Include subtopic headings when writing your article - These will break up your article into "chunks" which are easier for young readers to read. These subtopic headings will also "lead" the reader through your article. They will also make your article "look" more like nonfiction instead of fiction.

4. Give your topic an unusual slant that will appeal to kids and editors alike - When you do this, your article won't sound so much like a textbook. And articles that sound too much like textbook material are NOT in big demand with magazine editors.

5. Consider topics that will relate to themed publications - Many children's magazines have themes for each issue. And, even for publications that do not have themed issues, editors still look for topics that can be used for holiday issues as well as other seasonal issues. For example, most publications feature some sort of back-to-school articles in their August or September issues. In the summer months, these same publications tend to feature articles that give vacation tips or crafts ideas and games to keep kids occupied during the summer. So, be sure to include some of these types of article ideas in your queries.

6. Look for lesser known publications - Competition is fierce for Highlights, Spider, Cricket, and most of the very popular publications for children. You'll automatically increase your chances for acceptance if you query publications that don't receive so many queries.

Try these 6 tips and it shouldn't take you long to start receiving acceptances from the children's magazines that you query.

For more tips and articles about writing for children, visit the National Writing for Children Center and join the Children's Writers' Coaching Club.

Suzanne Lieurance is a fulltime freelance writer, children's author, and The Working Writer's Coach.