My co-worker who did the creative program lost interest. So I swept in with a new type of creative writing program.
The quick backstory. Three other employees and myself started a zine collection at the downtown branch where we work. You can read all about it here – http://jplzinelibrary.wordpress.com/. One element of this to appreciate is a zine collection’s rarity in public library systems, only a handful of public library collections such as this exist in the country.
I started a creative writing and artistry class for kids ages 8-13. At our weekly meetings we work on various projects for submission to a quarterly published zine we create. This zine is something that will be cataloged in the zine collection at my branch.
Writing Prompts…
Sample writing…
Collage projects…
With haiku…
Collage and haiku…
The local paper did a small write up on the program, too!
So far I’ve only held two of the classes, but the turnout has been decent and myself and the kids are looking forward to the first finished publication.
Josh Jubinsky
Hello
Since you are someone who is into promoting creative writing for kids, I wanted to tell you about a creative writing web site for kids that my 10 yo daughter just opened. The “collaborative story” idea was her own. This is different than other collaborative stories on the web. She wanted to get suggestions from other kids for ideas as to how her stories can progress (ideas for characters, plots), and continue her story based on those suggestions from other kids.
Kid visitors can also post stories, book reviews, and comments on other kids’ writing. We are careful to review all submissions prior to posting.
Let us know what you think if you take a peak. And pass it on to whoever you might find interested. http://www.gennasworld.com
Please feel free to add a link to her site to your “LINKS” list.
Thanks
Steven Brusie (proud Dad)
Wow- This is so rad! I work as a YS Associate out here in Washington State. I love this idea and I’m thinking about “borrowing” it from you for use as a teen program! I’m bookmarking your blog and telling my coworker about it- She started a Zine library at our branch in Olympia and if she hasn’t already seen it, I’m sure she will be interested.
Thanks!
-Kelsie
I enjoyed looking at your kids’ creations! May they write and create often, now and for a lifetime! Thanks for putting these classes together!