All content copyright 2011 by Christina Mandelski

If you are a writer (child, teen or adult) and just getting started, my best advice is to start reading. There is a lot to know about your chosen craft, and much to know about how to get your work published . You may have no idea who to send your work to and how to send it, but you can learn! Here are some great resources that might help:

A critique group is a great way to improve your writing. Finding the right one might take some time - but be patient. My critique group calls itself Will Write for Cake. We love to celebrate good news with cake but most importantly, we support each other through the ups and downs of this crazy business.  You can meet quite a few of my talented crit buddies at their websites: Laura Edge, Doris Fisher, Lynne Kelly and Miriam King.

FOR ADULTS

Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators

The Purple Crayon

Upstart Crow Literary

Children’s Literature Network

FOR KIDS & TEENS

Stone Soup the Magazine by Young Writers and Artists

Merlyn’s Pen

Skipping Stones

My last bit of advice: Tame the Lazy Beast! I’ve got one – it would rather shop than write, rather check Facebook than write and sometimes rather do the dishes than write. You must take the time and make the time. You can blame your lack of productivity on commitments and responsibilities til kingdom come – but unless you sit down and write you will never be a writer.

Just my 2 cents... Best of luck to you!