By Carol McAdams Moore

I am posting from the Write-to-Publish Conference in Wheaton, IL. A number of magazine editors, book editors, agents, and authors in the field of children’s publishing are here. I thought it would be fun to post a compilation of the ideas that came up at the conference.

Children’s authors were encouraged to write about real-life, tough issues. Children and teens are not immune to the rough waters that life can bring. Many have experienced divorce, death of a loved one, serious illness, and being bullied by peers. If they have not experienced these trials, they have friends who have.

When writing for children, it is important to write in language that they can read for themselves, in words that are familiar to them. That way, they have ownership in the guidance that books can offer.

Children and teens need books written in positive, fresh voices (or styles) that can encourage them to grow in Christ. Although not all books need to be overtly Christian, they should reflect a Christian perspective on life. Book editors affirmed their commitment to publish books for children and teens of all ages groups (birth to college).

What would you add to the list? What would you like to see coming in the world of books and magazines for Christian kids and teens?