We are exploring the possibilities for children and teens who would like to become authors. Every author will be quick to tell an aspiring writer that it is not an easy path. Yet, every avid reader will be equally quick to say that without books to read we will suffer as a society.

Last time, we looked at fun gift ideas for the young would-be author. Today, let’s look at several reference books that are staples for authors. They assist writers in stretching and enriching their words. Granted, some word references are available online, but the opportunity and depth of exploration and comparison of words that is available in print books is difficult to beat.

• A good dictionary – A good adult dictionary is helpful for the teen writer. A child’s dictionary is also a plus for the very young writer or the teen who is writing for young readers.
• A thesaurus – Again, an adult thesaurus is helpful for teen writers, but a beginning thesaurus can prevent writers from repeating basic words.
• Flip Dictionary – Geared for teens and adults, this reference offers groups of related words as well as charts and tables.
• A rhyming dictionary – Lots of playful writing can be inspired with lists of words that rhyme. Many rhyming dictionaries are on the market.
• The Children’s Writers Word Book – This resource offers lists of words by grade-level to guide in finding the right, but not-too-hard words for kids.

Do you have a future author in your family? What books have been helpful references?