Helpful advice for aspiring poets
So You Wanna Be a Children’s Poet…
In this informative article, freelance writer Linda Phillips looks at techniques, terminology and genres and offers some sound advice for anyone keen to write poetry for young people.
“The point is to read widely, acquire new skills and techniques, and get busy writing. You’ll never be a ‘wanna-be’ children’s poet again.”
http://www.writing-world.com/poetry/children.shtml
How to Write Poetry for Magazines
Suzanne E. Henshon encourages aspiring poets to write for magazines as a first step on their path to publication.
“Writing poetry for children is exciting and exhilarating. You’ll discover that the gift of words is challenging to develop but wonderful to share. As a poet, you can give young readers lasting memories: poems that will stay in their hearts forever.”
Poetry books for young people
Elizabeth Kennedy recommends several books for poetry readers in the 12+ age group on this site.
http://childrensbooks.about.com/od/poetry/tp/poetry.htm
I particularly liked the sound of these…
Dark Emperor of the Night, a 2011 John Newbury honour book by Joyce Sidman. Kennedy describes it as “a striking mixture of poetry, science and art”.
Pieces: A Year in Poems and Quilts features 20 poems about nature by Anna Grossnickle Hines, all illustrated by a miniature quilt created by the poet.
Poems wanted
Do you have a poem for young people to share as our Poem of the Day? I’d love to hear from you. Email me on traffa-m@bigpond.net.au
Competition
Time is running out if you want to enter this.
The Caterpillar Poetry Prize – Closing date 31 March 2015
More information at: https://australianchildrenspoetry.com.au/2014/08/25/poetry-competition/
Australian Children’s Poetry Website 
It’s fantastic to receive your weekly update. Thanks for all the hard work you’re doing, Teena!