Calling All Children’s Writers - Crystal Bowman

By Crystal Bowman
Children's Book Author

If you are interested in writing for children, then we need to get acquainted! I’ve been writing kids’ books for nearly two decades and have had some incredible learning experiences I’d love to share with you. I have written over 60 books and consider it a privilege to write for the best publishing houses in the business.

I Think I Can… I Think I Can…

Writing for kids is a whole lot different than writing for adults. Many writers think it should be fairly easy. Let me put it this way—it’s not! And there is so much more you need to do besides create a good story. You need to know what is already out there. You need to know what the market needs. And you have to offer something that is clever, unique, original, and well-written.
I am excited to be a presenter at the 2009 Florida Christian Writers’ Conference. My session, The Broad Spectrum of Children’s Literature, is an overview of all the sub-genres within the genre of children’s literature. We will take a detailed look at:

• board books
• picture books
• learning-to-read books
• chapter books
• …and everything in between

This information will help you understand what type of children’s books fit your writing style, and it will also help you decide what age group you should target. I will be giving you tons of helpful information, but do not fear—you will get a detailed handout so you won’t get carpal tunnel syndrome from trying to write it all down.

This Little Piggy Went to Market

Another session I will be presenting is How to Market Your Children’s Book. Getting a book published is the end of one process but the beginning of another. If you want your book to get noticed and survive in a very competitive market, you must be proactive when it comes to marketing your book. I’ll share lots of practical things you can do without having to travel far from home.

I am a recent resident of Florida and am happy to welcome you to our lovely state! My friends and family back in Michigan are becoming regular visitors to our home, which I appropriately call The Bowman Bed and Breakfast.

If you are traveling from the northern climates, please keep in mind that even though you will be in Florida, it is still winter here. It will not be 90 degrees! The days are usually warm (but not hot), and the nights can get chilly. I recommend layering. Be ready to add a light jacket or sweater if you get chilly. And, this is the most important thing: wear comfortable shoes! You will be doing lots of walking so forget fashion and aim for comfort.

See you soon!

Crystal Bowman is a bestselling author of over fifty books for children and three books for women. She also writes magazine articles, Bible study materials, and lyrics for children’s piano music. She speaks at national conventions, writers’ conferences, and local schools and churches. She has been a guest on numerous Christian radio programs including Focus on the Family.

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