Use the following steps to help you with your book.

1. Review six to eight children’s books.

a. Steps when reviewing:

i. Look at the book carefully. Do you like the layout? Do the pictures catch your eye?

ii. Read the book. Does the story flow… is it interesting, funny, boring? Think as a child. Why would a child like it or dislike it?

iii. Does the story send a message or theme?

iv. For what grade would this book be appropriate? Why?

v. How do the other members of your group feel about the book?

b. Review the five elements of the short story (character development, creation of plot, setting, theme, and style). Do the books you are reviewing contain these elements? Give examples to your group.

2. Now begin your Book Buddy Book:

a. You are going to write a book about the interests of your book buddy.

b. Brainstorm the ideas you are going to use in your book.

c. Design your book using the five elements of a short story.

i. Develop you characters – human, animal, or fantasy. Make an outline of each and how they fit into your story. Give the characters short names, which are not similar or even starting with the same letter – to avoid confusion.

ii. Make sure your writing is age appropriate – simple (or non-existent) plot and plays on words (ex. A repeating phrase). When using bigger words be sure to explain them so as not to frustrate new readers. You were given a vocabulary sheet to help with this.

iii. Setting: where does your story take place? What does it look like? The realm should be bright, colourful, and optimistic.

iv. Plot: what is your story about? It is important to have a beginning, middle, and end (all young children’s books must have a happy ending). How do your characters interact? Scary stories are not acceptable.

v. Style: Make sure your writing has flair. Use humor when possible, focus on silly things, use made up words, rhyme, show character’s personality through speech and actions, and do not use bland statements.

d. Create a schematic map and outline ideas for your book. Share those ideas with a partner and listen to your partners ideas as well.

e. Begin writing your first draft and edit with a partner.

f. Continue this through all drafts.

g. Now think about illustrations. What pictures will you use to make your book more attractive? More informative?

h. Ask a partner to critique your final draft.

i. Your final product should look polished.

j. Your final product should be published using PowerPoint, be well written, including correct spelling and punctuation.

k. When your assignment is completed, prepare to present your book to the class and to your Book Buddy.