Get Published as a Children's Historical Non-Fiction Writer

Are you an aspiring freelance author? Do you enjoy writing about a particular period in history, which fascinates or intrigues you? Did you know that the historical non-fiction market is open to freelance submissions? In fact, several children's magazines are looking for talented freelance authors who can make history come alive. However, many children's magazines are looking for articles that capture a child's imagination.

History Sells

Right now, many editors are looking for well-written non-fiction articles about history. Additionally, each article must be fun and engaging, instead of boring like a textbook. Most editors will reject all articles that sound like page from a textbook. Furthermore, editors want historical articles, which are able to grab a child's undivided attention. Most children want to read about characters and places they can relate and identify with.

However, you must remember to use the age appropriate vocabulary words. Additionally, you will need to define any technical and scientific terms that are included in your article. These historical articles should be informative, yet exciting and fun to read. Most editors want non-fiction articles that is engaging and interactive. However, try not to overwhelm your reader, with too many boring facts or dates. Most editors prefer historical articles about are about relatively unknown topics, which will capture the interest of children and their parents.

Market Research

Many magazines accept historical non-fiction, but you must read the magazine guidelines. Most editors automatically reject the articles,which do not follow their guidelines. Some magazines have their guidelines listed at their website or you may write the editor for a copy also. Look around you community for a book called, Magazine Market for Children's Writers 2008 or Writer's Market 2008. These book will allow you to find out, what the editors need for each magazine.

Furthermore, you can find several excellent resources on the internet and in local bookstores. These sites can help you strengthen your writing skills, while steering you in the right direction. Start by visiting www.writersmarket.com , in order to find out what kind of articles each magazine is currently looking for. Additionally, look around the internet and other resources to find the higher paying markets. Remember to submit weekly, because it may take a few months for the editor to reply.

Sample Markets

Cobblestone Magazine
30 Grove St. Suite-C
Peterborough, NH, 03458

Editor: Meg Chorlian

Appleseeds Magazine
Cobblestone Publishing Company
30 Grove St.
Peterborough, NH, 03458

Editor: Susan Buckley

Submission Tips

Once your article is finished, take some extra time to prepare your submission correctly. Be sure to revise it several times and look for any mistakes that you may have overlooked. Now, it is time to work on creating the perfect query and cover letter, which depends on what the editor prefers. If you need help writing one, try to look for websites and resources tha will help you. Always visit the magazine's website for the submission rules and guidelines. This way, you will know what kind of articles that each editor needs or wants, before you waste you time and money.

As an aspiring freelance author, you may need to create your own writing space at home. Furthermore, you will need to start stocking up on the supplies: like postage stamps, long envelopes, and printer paper. Next, look for ways to limit the interruptions and distractions, which you will face each day in your daily life. Sometimes getting up early or staying up late will help you concentrate better, in order to meet your writing goals. Remember to submit, at least one manuscript a week to different magazines that you have researched..

Paying Markets

The editor of Cobblestone magazine serves the 8- to 14-year-old market and they pay 20 to 25 cents a word. This same publishing company owns Appleseeds magazine, which serves the 7- to 14-year-old market and pays $50 a page. Check out these magazines websites, in order to learn more information about each editor's needs. In addition, you will need to consult the writer's guidelines for topics that the magazine's editor is looking for.

Make sure you carefully read each magazine's guidelines, before submitting your article or you may be rejected instantly. This will help you understand the magazine's mission and the type of articles that each publisher wants from a new author. Most editors are looking for unique poetry, games, and activities about history that is aimed at children. With each submission, you will be building a lifelong portfolio of your best work. Additionally, you will be able to earn extra money and gain more experience, as a freelance children's author.

Rejections Happen

Every author faces rejection and disappointment, so try not to fret when you receive one. Instead, use them to help mold your writing skills and submission skills. Watch out for mistakes, since editors will reject an article, which has more than five errors on a page. In addition, you may want to enroll in a children's writing course to build your skills further. Thus, you may find lots of useful information, which you will help you build your career and your talent.

Remember to always use the rejection letter, as a guide to improve your writing and submission skills. However, you will need to put the article away and keep submitting other finished work. Once a month has passed, you will dust off the article and complete the revision process. Be sure to repeat each step, whenever you receive a new rejection letter in the mail. Perseverance will help you gain an editor's eye and allow you to improve your chances of becoming a published children's author.

Conclusion

Currently, the historical market is wide open and waiting for an author like you. In addition, there is plenty of money to make, as long as you can impress an editor, while you capture a child's imagination. Now, start studying the current need of each magazine publisher and begin submitting soon. Just remember to set aside time each day, in order to pursue your writing career and goals. Therefore, you can earn steady money and become immortal in the hearts of all children.