This book describes the writing process in brief little bubbles, but it is so accurate. Leedy explains in chronological order how to begin writing a book, but the process can be used for essays and papers too. First one should brainstorm and gather several ideas, think of a genre, research some of the ideas that were brainstormed, develop characters and a setting, devise a rough draft and sketches, give the book a title, share it to get comments and suggestions for editing, and finally make a final copy. For books, one should decide what format and layout you want for the book, illustrate the book and figure out which lettering to use, and finally the book should be bound together. I loved the way this book was setting up, taking me through each process with comical little characters and with the facts about how to write a book. This would be a great book to have in the classroom for students to look at as a guide when completing writing assignments. ( )

Retelling: Using her own clever formatting, Loreen Leedy takes you through the process of brainstorming, researching, developing characters and genre, establishing a setting, making a plan or rough draft, choosing a title, working in a group, revising, editing, formatting, and illustrating a book. She gives examples on each page of possible choices.

Thoughts and Feelings: I like the design of this book. I would recommend this as a possible process for students to follow if they are stuck, but encourage them to take, leave, or rearrange pieces of her process if they feel it will serve their idea better. Different ideas follow different paths to completion. you might even start with the shape of the book as your inspiration. You might be someone who needs to group to help you generate ideas and never need them again, or someone who will only benefit from consulting the group if it happens at the very end.

A fantastic book for 5th and 6th teaching the writing process. They can each make their own book and step by step will learn about characters, setting, art, lettering. etc. All the aspects of book making are included with brief illustrations of what and how to proceed making your own book. ( )

This book takes you through the book making process. You must first have an idea. It also explains genres and research that goes in to writing a book. It discusses elements within the book, like characters, character traits and setting. It takes the reader through the necessary plan: plot, problem, solution, facts and notes. It talks about the writing process and drafts and sketches. There are tips on sharing and titling your work. Next comes revision, editing and formatting, complete with types of pages and art. Lettering and binding is explained.

This book is overly simplified and includes a lot of illustrations. It is maybe too basic for a serious author, but a great way to introduce kids to the reading and writing process. It is also helpful for them to understand the different parts of the book. Anyone who reads it walks away with a new found appreciation for authors.

An obvious class activity for this book would be to create a book after reading this book. We could go through the various steps in making the book and take them and read them to younger classes. We also could have an actual author or illustrator visit the school and explain the process in detail for book that end up getting published.

This really isn't a children's story book, but it is a book that can help children learn to write and illustrate books. It is a great learning tool.