The Act of Writing a Children's Book

Author(s)

Alexandra Mancini, University of Rhode IslandFollow

Date

5-2008

Comments

The .TIFF images require a "Windows Picture and Fax Viewer" or similar program to open the file.

Keywords

Literacy; children’s literature; writing

Abstract

Literacy is one of the most important aspects of teaching and education for young children and old in the US and across the world. There have been numerous studies indicating the profound impact that reading has, not only in academia but also in the workforce later on in life. The earlier children are exposed to literacy topics, the better success they demonstrate in the future. It is for these reasons that I selected a topic concerning literacy. The purpose of my project was multifaceted. I had purposes for young children ages 3-5. The essence of my project was to write a children’s book. The intentions for young children are quite simply to present a novel book that has some unique characteristics. My hope is that the book, that utilizes some commonly accepted literary techniques, will serve to encourage young children to read and participate in literature. The book that resulted targets an important developmental issue for children in this age range. It discusses the loss of comfort items, and the benefit that stopping to take a moment and think about things before acting provides. These themes are particularly important for children as they begin attending school. The book, Corky’s Lost Ball, also uses edited digital photography to help children interact with the book and make connections between the words and reality. It also allows for the use of the dialogical reading method, which it has been claimed, is the best way to learn how to read. The main objective, concisely stated, is the promotion of literacy. I have invested personal interest in this topic, as I will soon be an elementary school teacher, and I hope to have promoted the importance of this issue as much as I could through my project.