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#MGMonday #Genres Writing Middle Grade Non Fiction

Why is it that, when you're teaching genres to children, you go through historical, fantasy, science fiction, adventure... and so on... and then... non-fiction. You go into detail about all the wonderful types of fiction, and then non-fiction gets lumped in together. Perhaps because there are too many genres of non-fiction to count. I can't even name them all. So, with that in mind, I will attempt to write a single blog post about non-fiction. What is the most challenging aspect of middle grade non-fiction? For me, personally, the most challenging part is making the facts fun and engaging for children. It's a different skill writing facts for children rather than adults. Think back to when you were a child. If you picked up a dry wall of text, it might have put you off non-fiction for life. So, what can we do to ensure our non-fiction books grip children's attention? Fun Language Think Horrible Histories. Some of the facts in those books might not interest some kids, bu...

#HistFicThursdays - History Writers' Day - The Legacy Lives On


Last weekend, historical writers around the globe came together for an online book fair. I've been a part of other virtual book fairs since Covid arrived on the scene, but this was the first genre-specific one I've done.

#HistoryWritersDay was the brainchild of Simon (@Books2Cover). Despite its hashtag, the event was actually two days and, over those two days, I fell even deeper in love with the fantastic world of historical fiction and non-fiction writers. Writers and publishers were offering discounts, signed copies and giveaways, welcoming and including stalwarts as well as newbies to the many realms of history.

As well as fabulous new friends, the weekend also provided a few sales along the way - most people buying The Year We Lived which continues to be a mystery as well as an adventure for readers! And I'm looking forward to hearing the feedback and reviews from these sales, and making connections there too.

The benefit of being a part of the Historical Fiction community of writers is just phenomenal. There is genuine support available as well as just enough niches to make every book beautifully individual. 

Planning ahead, Simon has already announced the 2022 event on 26th-27th November 2022. It's already on my computer calendar. Hopefully, after reading this, it should be on yours too!

Just one more thing! As part of the event, I ran a giveaway for any of my historical fiction books. I'm thrilled to announce the winner was Annie Whitehead! Congratulations, Annie, and I hope you enjoy your book!

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