Introduction to Writing for Children (Adult Course)

17.30-19.00       Monday 12th, 19th, 26th January and 2nd Feb

Why write for children? There are many reasons, but one of the most profound is undoubtedly the one espoused by C.S. Lewis, author of ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’:

‘Where the children’s story is simply the right form for what the author has to say, then of course readers who want to hear that will read the story or re-read it, at any age.’

Children’s fiction is boundless. A quick visit to your local bookshop or library will reveal the vast range of people, places, and situations encapsulated in children’s books. Adventure can happen to anyone, at anytime, anywhere. Wherever your imagination takes you is where you’ll find a story.

Furthermore, your story is for everyone. No matter how young or old, your book can be read and enjoyed. That is why children’s books dominate lists of the nation’s favourite books, and this is an opportunity every writer should relish. The children’s author writes with a range of readers in mind: the child reading under their sheets late at night, the parent reading a bedtime story, the teacher seeking to zest up the curriculum with an exciting historical narrative.

This can feel intimidating. Who can compete with the likes of Roald Dahl, JK Rowling, Michael Morpurgo, and Katherine Rundell? The answer is simple: you can. Every great author started with an idea and a blank piece of paper. If you have both of these things, you, too, can write the next great children’s classic.

ABOUT THE TUTOR

Adam Shackleton is a writer with a keen interest in developing creative talent. He holds a BA Honours in English Literature and an MA with Distinction, both from the University of Exeter. Adam was awarded a Dean’s Commendation for the quality of his written work; earning a distinction in every module of his Masters course.

He read his Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of Cambridge, and went on to teach for a decade in the United Kingdom and internationally, specialising in reading and writing. Adam has completed numerous creative writing courses with Curtis Brown and Raw Writing. He has also been published in his role as a commentator on politics and social affairs. Adam is currently working on a commission for a charity to write a middle-grade novel and a picture book for younger readers. He looks forward to publishing both in 2026 to coincide with the charity’s anniversary celebrations.