A perfect resource for visual learners, this illustrated edition of The Elements of Style has taken the classic style manual to a new, more accessible level but kept its main tenet intact: make every word tell. The written content by Strunk and White has long been referred to as an outline of the basic principles of style. Maira Kalman’s illustrations elevate the experience and make it a feast for both the mind and the eye. Although this classic book targets nonfiction writers, Zinsser discusses many forms of writing, from interviewing and telling stories about people to writing about travel. In addition to writing tips on consistency, voice, editing and more, he also includes the fundamentals of craft that can help you grow as a writer in any genre. 5. “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White

If your child prefers non-fiction, use the facts you find to create a fact sheet, a poster or a mini-book. If your child isn’t sure where to start, it can sometimes be helpful to sketch out their ideas first. For instance, can they draw a picture of a dastardly villain or a brave hero? How about a scary woodland or an enchanted castle? Can they draw the shark or spider they want to write an information book about? Sometimes writers take themselves too seriously. By allowing us a glimpse of her own human foibles, Anne Lamott takes some of the sting out of the things that cause writers grief, from perfectionism to insomnia. And she does it all with her celebrated wit and self-deprecating humor. It’s like having a crazy writer aunt to commiserate with. And you’ll learn a thing or two in the process. 9 Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within Natalie Goldberg

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Add some writing to the crafts – can they write with chalk, paint brushes or crayons? Can they make an attractive sign for their door or books? Finishing: Nobody cares about the book that you almost wrote. We want to read the one you actually finished, which means no matter what, the thing that makes you a writer is your ability not to start a project, but to complete one. Not only does On Writing share one enormously successful writer’s origin story, it teaches the craft of writing in a way that feels conversational and real, as though he’s a mentor sitting across the table from you, sipping coffee and giving you his best advice. 8 Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott Your child might also find it useful to draw maps or diagrams. What are all the different areas of their fantasy landscape called? How is the baddie’s base organised? Or for non-fiction, where does their shark or spider live? From the book: “A writer's life and work are not a gift to mankind; they are its necessity.” 26. Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

This book reflects on the artistic side of being a writer. Making art is no easy feat, and Bayles and Orlando—both artists themselves—explore the challenges of making art and the various obstacles that can discourage people along the way. Originally published in 1994, “ Art & Fear” is now an underground classic, dishing out relatable, valuable advice about what it means to create. 23. “The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person’s Guide to Writing in the 21st Century” by Steven Pinker Or if you prefer to write for the screen, Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio teaches a masterclass in screenwriting. In his course you can learn everything from creating a TV pilot to techniques to build tension and suspense.

From the book: “Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life, and it is the main obstacle between you and a shitty first draft.” 19. Take Off Your Pants by Libbie Hawker From the book: “Write fearlessly. Write what is true and real to you.” 4. The Forest for the Trees by Betsy Lerner words = standard nonfiction book / novella. The Great Gatsby is an example of this. Read time = three to four hours. Be sure to find out what handwriting style your child is learning at school. Consistency is key, so it is important not to correct something that you think is an error but that is actually part of the style your child is learning.

Natalie Goldberg’s approach to writing is simple—if you want to write truthfully and powerfully, you have to connect with yourself. Using Zen teachings, she encourages writers to follow their first thoughts and to trust their minds and bodies to lead them. Her voice is accessible, and sometimes vulnerable, and her inspirational and wildly creative methods have been helping writers find their voices for over thirty years. 10 Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury What I mean by that is so many writers sit down to write their masterpiece, assuming that's all there is to it. Just sit down and write. But as I've studied the world's most gifted and successful authors, I've noticed this is not what the masters do. They are far more intentional than simply sitting and letting the words flow.

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From the book: “Writing a poem is a form of listening, helping me discover what's wrong or frightening in my world as well as what delights me.” 36. Writing Better Lyrics by Pat Pattison Bird by Bird” is an essential part of any writer’s toolbox. In this work, Lamott shares herself and her craft with readers, including anecdotes that tie the pieces together into all-around great writing. If you need help finding your voice and passion, Lamott’s advice is sure to spark creativity. 3. “Writer’s Market” edited by Robert Lee Brewer She offers valuable techniques, like starting each morning with a free-writing exercise and exploring one subject you find fascinating per week. Her tips for gaining the self-confidence to reinvigorate your creative juices could be of help to any kind of writer. 16. “Word Work: Surviving and Thriving as a Writer” by Bruce Holland Rogers