Trends Update/Calls for Submissions

The world of children’s publishing is in a constant state of change. Often what’s HOT today is NOT tomorrow. I don’t write with trends in mind, but I do make an attempt to stay up-to-date on what’s current in the world of children’s books. The more I'm connected, the more I’m inspired to write.

 Here are seven trends that are HOT today:

1.      Increased interest in middle grade fiction. Lightly illustrated contemporary, realistic, stand-alone books.

2.      Young adult books decreased in sales. There is a shift from paranormal and dystopian [an imaginary place or state in which the condition of life is extremely bad] to contemporary, romantic stories with an element of humor

3.      The move from print to ebooks continues to grow. Illustrated books lag behind others. [Note: Most of my picture books are in ebook format. If my books are a barometer of the publishing climate, it seems that picture books may be catching up to the others.]

4.      Books on bullying are still widespread. With the media focus on bullying, the trend may stick around for quite some time.

5.      Fascinating nonfiction is on the rise. Emphasis from the academic community will probably keep nonfiction books alive and well.

6.      Survival stories are on the upswing.

7.      Tough girls are popular topics in books.

Call for submissions for adult writers:

Appleseeds Magazine.  "We're looking for new, different, and interesting activities that kids will love to do. No crosswords or word searches. Activities requiring adult supervision are acceptable.

All activities MUST relate to upcoming theme so check guidelines before submitting.
Details at http://www.cobblestonepub.com/guides_APP.html

Call for submissions for young writers:

GREYstone is now accepting submissions of poetry, artwork, flash fiction, photography and scientific art from students {and teachers} K-12 for our quarterly online publication which
comes out in the months of February, May, August & November. Submissions are accepted year-round, and submissions to multiple genres are permitted.

Details at http://mygreystone.wordpress.com/submit/

Check out more contests on my blog: http://nancykellyallen.blogspot.com/