Another Writing Challenge - of Fairy Tales

If you can get a copy of the May 21, 2007 TIME Magazine, be sure to read the article "The End of Fairy Tales?" on pages 83-85.

In the meantime, or after you read the article, study the types of re-writes fairy tales have gotten, then think about whether or not particular types of re-writes might be clever or go too far, and then think about how you might re-write a fairytale. Which fairy tale would you choose? How would you change it, modernize it, or give it a unique twist?

And think about this: would you return to the original grim Grimms' fairy tales style, stay with a sweet Disney version, try another different grim version, or go in a completely opposite direction, or use your very own unique technique? 

Go ahead now - take the challenge!

 

another writing challenge - An Age Old Question Updated and Adapted for Children's Writers

Here is an adaptation of a question that is often asked of readers: Suppose you were stranded on a desert island, or (in keeping with the modern age), suppose you were on a space station or moon base for a long time. Choose 6-12 children's books you would like to have with you to help pass the time. They should also be books, or even magazine articles, that would keep inspiring you to write. One of your choices can be something written for writers by a children's book or article writer. Here are my choices: parts of LITTLE WOMEN, all of THE SECRET GARDEN, A WRINKLE IN TIME, THE MIXED UP FILES OF MRS BASIL E FRANKWEILER, TOM'S MIDNIGHT GARDEN, BARBARY, and an article by Rachel Carson on the sense of wonder in children. Now its your turn.  

Tags: challenge for children's writers