Middle Grade, Part 5: A Crash Course in Kid Culture
This article is part of a series. Click here to view Part 1: MG Overview, Part 2: MG Novels, Part 3: Plotting MG, and Part 4: MG Characters. Writing for any genre requires an understanding of its audience, but this is doubly important when writing middle grade (MG) novels. MG readers are often between 8 and 12 […]
Middle Grade, Part 3: Plotting Dynamic Adventures
Plotting a middle grade novel requires a careful approach that respects the norms and expectations of the category while also bringing a fresh perspective to the table. MG challenges authors to weave compelling narratives through relatable characters, problems, and themes that resonate with young readers without preaching at or overtly teaching them. To do this, […]
Middle Grade, Part 2: The Anatomy of the MG Novel
Middle grade (MG) novels occupy a distinct and essential niche in children’s literature. But what makes a novel “middle grade”? Several key elements distinguish them from both younger children’s books and young adult (YA) literature, ensuring they cater to the developmental and emotional needs of a young, growing audience and their interests. Here are the […]