Markets for the Young Writer

I came across an interesting resource for teen writers recently - Markets for the Young Writer, an ebook from C. Hope Clark. The book promises 232 markets open to submissions from young writers, along with helpful advice on getting paid for your writing and potentially turning your passion into a career. The book was updated in February 2007, so even in the fast-changing world of publishing, you can expect that the markets will be current

If you move in writing circles, you may recognize C. Hope Clark as the editor of FundsforWriters and its related newsletters, like the free Writing Kids newsletter. I haven't had a chance to read the ebook, but I can't imagine C. Hope Clark producing anything but a quality resource.

April is National Poetry Month

Did you know that April is National Poetry Month? Visit the Academy of American Poets for more information about the celebration, information on poems, poets, and poetic forms, and poetry recordings.

Coming soon…

Look for a number of new reviews on All Info About Teen Reading soon. I've finally made it through a backlog of review copies, which means more great recommendations for you!

Interesting teen reading link

The Seattle Post-Intelligencer recently asked the question, "Is young-adult fare too mature for some of its readers?" as part of a larger look at teen reading. I think it brings up an interesting point. Some of the best young adult literature is great because of its realism, realism that often stems from difficult and mature situations. I would certainly pause before giving a 13-year-old the same book I would heartily recommend to a high school senior. However, it depends so much on the individual reader, too. Some teens are more mature than others, and some are more sensitive to troubling topics. What are you thoughts on the appropriateness of young adult literature? How do you decide what's appropriate for specific readers?

Quick Book Review - Born to Rock by Gordon Korman

I've always been a fan of Gordon Korman, and I was excited to find his newest book at the library a few weeks ago. (Now, Born to Rock really wasn't that new; it came out in 2006. I guess I just missed out on the release.)

Straight-laced Leo is shocked to find out that his long-lost biological father may actually be one of the grandfathers of punk rock. He's horrified until a chain of events leaves him looking for a new source of college funding. Will a summer on the road with his new dad lead to some parental financial support? Will he even be alive after a summer of punk rock touring? Born to Rock brought the humor I've come to expect from a Gordon Korman book, but it also had a serious side that I thought added depth to the story. I definitely recommend it.