Here’s a little tip I read recently: Children’s magazines always need stuff like crafts, quizzes, and non-fiction ideas. But, of course, children’s writers like to write children’s fiction. There’s more money to be made in selling stories, right?
Well, yes and no. Because to get a story sold may take ages. Meanwhile, to get a craft or non-fiction article accepted may not take nearly that long. And you can build a relationship with an editor while you’re sending along all those sweet somethings that they need.
So, down the road, your sweet fiction is more likely to get a closer look. At least, that’s what I’m hoping. ‘Cause if you take a closer look at the envelope below, you’ll see “Highlights.” As in Highlights for Children Magazine. And that’s my CONTRACT I’m sending back! I sold a craft today and did such an extended happy dance that Mr. Hall threatened to hose me down.
So trying sending a craft. It may seem like a little thing, but just that little bit may make all the difference.
Cathy C. Hall Writes 
Only thing to say about this is simply…….CONGRATULATIONS.All that hard work and shouting for me to turn the radio off has paid off.Love, Joe
Ooooooh. I’m getting all tingly. Thanks, JoeBo.
I’m always on the hunt for great children’s books and have recently discovered Bayard and their series of StoryBoxBooks, AdventureBoxBooks and DiscoveryBoxBooks. There’s lots going on too:This Month Storybox has guest illustrator Helen Oxenbury fetured. There’s a Readathon happening in UK and Ireland – http://discoveryboxbooks.com/readathon.phpThere's a Ghost Drawing competition in AdventureBoxBooks assiciated with the Polka Theatre (http://www.adventureboxbooks.com/competition.php)