What I Learned from ENG 561: Genre Study in the Craft of Writing for Children: Fantasy

• Fantasy has subgenres. Before this class, I’d never even heard of subgenres.
• Fantasy is the “genre ghetto.” If you write fantasy, all the “real” authors will forever consider you to be beneath them.
• Same goes for writing for kids. Adult authors might even ask, “So when are you going to start writing real books?”
• Every writer should try using plot-point outlines. You might love them (like me) or you might not.
• Never be afraid to take a chance on a “crazy” idea.
• It’s okay to be dissatisfied with your 1^st draft. And your 2^nd. And your . . . 5^th.
• Revision is BY FAR harder than writing.
• You’re allowed to steal ideas. You heard me. Writers steal ideas ALL THE TIME.
• You can write stories based on folktales, fairytales, poems, or songs without being guilty of copyright violation. An original re-telling of Hansel and Gretel would be completely legal.
• In fact, old tales, ballads, and such are great writing prompts (i.e. Ellen Kushner’s Thomas the Rhymer).