Reviews

Gr 4-9-This reader-friendly title makes learning how to write stories interesting and enjoyable. Harrison details the process of writing, including the importance of a good beginning and ending, the elements of a story, genres, and how to revise the first draft and continue with rewriting before the final product is completed. He uses five types of sidebars ("Tools," "Techniques," "Helpful Hints," "Secrets," and "Try This"), all introduced in the first chapter, to give additional information, guidelines, or direction. What makes this book so valuable is that all of the ideas and suggestions are illustrated with fiction stories, including Harrison's own. These examples are identified with the title and author, indented, and set off with blue type. The author obviously feels comfortable writing for young people, and it shows in both the substance and enthusiastic tone of the text. Students may be encouraged to start their own writing career after reading this book.-Linda Wadleigh, Oconee County Middle School, Watkinsville, GA Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.