WANTED: Do you have an article 850 to 1200 words in length on some aspect of the craft of children's writing? The payment is $50 for exclusive, worldwide original or reprint rights on our ICL site for one year. (Articles are on-line for one year, then removed, at which time you are free to resell them. Payment is made within one to three weeks after articles are posted on-line.)

Articles must have substance, with tips and suggestions that other children's writers can use and absorb into their writing lives. Be as specific as possible. Articles should fit one of the Writing topics listed here and have a different and unusual slant on these categories and subjects:

[Note: All topics will be considered based on how unique the submission is compared to what we already have online.]

WRITER'S SUPPORT:

1. Getting Started (to help visitors become familiar with what the site offers.) -- This area is not open for submission.
2. Writing Schedule (time management and goals)I would love to see more pieces on managing your time effectively and on setting and carrying out goals.
3. Work Habits (inspiration, rejection, writer's block) I don't have a huge need in this area but I'm always open to looking at something to inspire and encourage.
4. Networking (conference, critique groups and other kinds of networking) I would especially love to see some very specific help for those setting up critique groups, going to their first conference, and maybe some etiquette tips for networking without stalking.
5. Manuscript How-Tos (style, tips, and other help for manuscripts) People are always asking about manuscript format and how to handle things like synopsis, outlines, pitches and the like.
6. Satisfying Editors (targeting markets, revision, professionalism, etc)
7. Publishing Paths (Publishing options -- books, magazines, contests). I am in serious need of an article on writing/selling folktales.
8. Query Letters (I would love to see an article on query "extras" like clips, credits, tearsheets, etc.)
9. Cover Letters

WRITING TIPS:

1. Getting Ideas
2. Story Characterization
3. Story Dialogue
4. Story Conflict
5. Story POV
6. Story Plot
7. Writing Nonfiction
8. Electronic Writing (I think this category is under represented -- I would like to see more)

How to Submit

You can query or simply send the article. When you submit your article, paste it right into the body of the e-mail, noting the category it’s intended for. Do NOT send your manuscript as an attachment. We no longer use photos with articles accepted but please include a short bio and your publishing credits, and please only submit ONE article at a time, waiting until you've heard back about it before sending any others.

Your contact information must include your address (since we don't email checks). When I send your contract, I will need your Social Security number for payment. Send your submission to the web editor, Jan Fields, at:
webeditor@institutechildrenslit.com or jan.fields@forums.institutechildrenslit.com

Here's a tip for your best chance at being published on our web site: Check out the Topical Index and look for categories with few entries -- those are the ones I most need.