How to Write

Could anybody suggest a good book for a bright nine year old writer on how to write?

There are three books by Ralph Fletcher (A Writer's Notebook, How Writers Work, and Live Writing) that give really honest advice as far as writing goes *and* are good for that age group. He also wrote one on poetry, called Poetry Matters.

The ones above are pretty good to try out. Also (I know this sounds bad) ask your Enlgish teacher (if you are the 9 year old) for some tips and help with your writing, it's always good to get one to one advice!
Hope this helps!
X

Thank you!

Depends whether you mean fictional creative writing or more academic non-ficiton stuff, or just fundamental writing tips.

Nothing wrong with books on the craft of writing but no matter which you chose, just encourage the nine year old to foster a love for reading in general(if he/she's not already there!). Just one good book that a kid really digs into can do wonders for inspiring and honing his/her writing skills and just general love for words...there's also the added benefit of widening and deepening knowledge and imagination and emotion and expression of creativity! Sorry I didn't really give a direct reply, but when I was that age I started to read a lot and I think it really reinforced what we did in English.

Look in your library's online catalogue (if it has one) and do a search for how to write books.
That's what I do.

xD You can learn to write by reading just about anything, kid. You can read what others write on YWS, analyze published novels, check in the nonfiction area and inform yourself on subjects related to your story, or get a guide on how to write.

I'd suggest Seize the Story and to not listen to your English teacher says about writing except when it comes to vocabulary, punctuation, or spelling.

It's for teenage writers and it covers just about all aspects of writing, from beginning to end.

-Shina

Welcome to YWS!

This is going to sound really obvious, but the most important thing you can do to be a better writer is to write. Write short stories, write part of a novel, write anything and everything that comes to mind. Write your heart out as often as you can and you'll improve. You can teach yourself a lot more about writing by experimenting with different styles and things than any book could ever do.

That doesn't mean that you shouldn't learn about writing as much as you can, but remember that the experts aren't always right. Trust your instincts, and above all, keep writing.

~ Maggie

Ooh, Katyliz! I forgot to greet you because you're a new member! So...

Welcome to YWS!

I hope you have an awesome time on this amazing writing site Seriously, this place is amazing. I'd suggest you take advantage of all the resources and opportunities this place has to offer. Don't be afraid of criticism and don't be afraid of showing yourself as a writer!

YWS, ftw!

-Shina