If you are like so many others, and want to find ways to encourage your students or your children to find their writing voices, you need to have a look at this new guide by the funny, and very talented Jack Gantos.
It is a terrific read for kids who have writing aspirations. Mr. Gantos talks with them about the vital importance of keeping a journal, about being consistently on the lookout for stories to tell - by listening in on other people, by doing a lot of reading, and by relating events from their own lives.
"Reading good books turns on the powerful Writing Radar story-finding talent within you. Reading sharpens your eye for discovering keen details and unforgettable images. Reading coaches your brain to keep working until you discover the perfect words to describe powerful actions and precise emotions. Reading gives you an ear for clever dialogue that makes characters jump off the page and light up the imaginary theater within the reader's mind."
Using his own experiences and stories, he speaks to the inherent worth of keeping a journal, and writing in it every day - many times a day, if needed. Many of the memories he shares are a result of the journal keeping he has done since he was a young boy. He helps readers see that story maps, drawings, and word lists are all useful aids for crafting their best writing. All the building blocks for good writing are discussed.
It's a lot of work, but worthwhile if writing is a life goal. If not, just read the book and enjoy the hijinks and humor shared in many of his anecdotes. Both entertaining and educational, this guide is worthy of attention. If writing is your passion, here's a bit of sage advice:
" “Don’t be that writer who waits all day for the perfect first sentence, or you will grow old while learning to hate yourself and writing.”
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