The CBI Challenge: Our Step-by-Step Children’s / YA Writing Course

Welcome, Fightin' Bookworms, to our step-by-step journey

to getting published!

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For 22 years now we've explored numerous aspects of writing fiction and nonfiction for all age groups, looked at the business end of the author's life, and talked to a lot of interesting, smart people about how to be successful in this industry. But now we're starting something completely different. Now we have a step-by-step plan to take you from aspiring author to published professional.

You're all invited to join us for the CBI Challenge.

We'll start at the foundation, laying the groundwork for learning how to create books for children that will catch an editor's eye. But the article only scratches the surface. You'll also find companion material — videos, web site walkthroughs, extra articles, podcasts — plus a "challenge" assignment that ties in with that module's theme.

If you're brand new to writing for kids, the Challenge is for you. If you're switching from adult to children's books, fiction to nonfiction, picture books to middle grade, or educational publishing to trade, the Challenge is for you. Take the Challenge if you've been revising the same manuscript for years but can't get past the slush pile. Pick up the Challenge on months when the topic — such as pacing in picture books, show don't tell, or incorporating flashbacks — is something you've been told you need to work on. Join us if you're tired of writing alone and want some friends along on the journey, to help you over the rough spots and celebrate those successes when they come.

From this page, you'll have ongoing access to each module of this interactive course that will take you from aspiring writer to (hopefully!) published author. Click on each Module title to view all the content for that section.