December 20, 2004

Heinous scheme to develop even younger writers uncovered . . .

by

In England, “A book-writing kit for children has proved a massive hit — dispelling the myth that youngsters no longer want to read.” A Sky News report says, “More than 40,000 My First Novel packs have been snapped up since it went on sale at supermarket chain Sainsbury’s in the first week of December,” becoming the chain’s bestselling children’s gift. Put together by bestselling children’s author Jacqueline Wilson, the kit includes “a book of tips from Ms Wilson on writing a novel, from making-up a plot through to choosing the characters. Youngsters also get a book in which to write their ideas and a series of fun stickers.”

Dennis Johnson is the founder of MobyLives, and the co-founder and co-publisher of Melville House.

MobyLives