Creating Writers

Freelance Poet

'This is a real labour of love and has that exciting richness which all the best books in this field have - it tantalises, inviting and exciting the reader. I love the blend of practical teaching ideas with the writers' views. There is so much here that will be found useful by teachers.' - Pie Corbett'It seems extraordinary that something like it didn't exist before...my bet is that it will become an essential tool for teachers...I only wish there had been something like it when I was visiting schools.' - Helen Cresswell'This will make a splendid resource: comprehensive, practical and thorough. I can see it being useful, not just to teachers in schools but to anyone involved in creative writing at any level. I think that using 'real writers' makes the book not just interesting in itself but also gives it an authentic feel and practical appeal. Letting the writers themselves say "this is how I really work, this is what I really do" makes it far more relevant than the usual lists of advice in "How to" books.' - Celia Rees'I'm extremely impressed by Creating Writers and I refer to it and recommend it during school visits and talks. It really explores its subject, and offers an important, beautifully researched and well-expressed alternative to shallow, quick-fix approaches to creative writing.' - David Almond'This book has that exiting, practical and creative flavour that will add sparks to many Literacy Hours ... It should be in every staffroom. Teachers with a passion for creativity and children's writing will treasure it.' - Junior Education'James Carter provides excellent guidance for teachers who are keen to support the developing authorship of their students ... an invaluable guide that will inspire students, teachers and also those interested in writing for children. I for one couldn't wait to pick up my pen!' - Books for Keeps'Stunning creative writing manual for schools. Teachers, children and anyone concerned with the writing process will find this book useful and thought-provoking. It is an inspiring tool, well written and well organised, and it comes at a very opportune moment for concerns about children's writing.' - Irene Babsky, the School Librarian journal

• Acknowledgements, Introduction: where do ideas come from?, 1. Write from the start: ways to approach creative writing and writing workshops, 2. Poetry, 3. Fiction, 4. Non-fiction, Appendix