WriTribe Podcast
Writing fantasy for children is a unique challenge that combines the wonder of imagination with the clarity of language suitable for young minds. This genre allows young readers to explore new worlds, confront good and evil, and learn about bravery, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. Creating compelling fantasy stories for children involves crafting narratives that spark imagination while being relatable and easy to follow.
One of the first steps in writing children's fantasy is to create a captivating world. This world should be vivid enough to transport young readers from their everyday lives into realms of enchantment and adventure. Consider J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter" series, where Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry provides a richly detailed setting that fuels the imagination of readers and characters alike.
Characters in children’s fantasy should be relatable and engaging. Young readers should see aspects of themselves in the characters, with common challenges such as making friends, dealing with bullies, or searching for their unique strengths. Characters like Lucy in C.S. Lewis's "The Chronicles of Narnia" demonstrate bravery and curiosity, traits that resonate with young readers.
The language used in writing for children should be simple but not condescending. It’s important to strike a balance between using a vocabulary that is age-appropriate and maintaining a narrative complexity that keeps readers engaged. Stories like "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak use straightforward language but convey deep emotional experiences.
Plot structures in children’s fantasy often follow a journey or quest. This structure can provide a clear and compelling narrative arc that helps young readers follow the story easily. The quest not only drives the plot but also aids in character development, as the characters grow and learn through their adventures.
Themes in children's fantasy should touch on universal concepts that are important in the world of children, such as good versus evil, friendship, identity, and family. Books like "Matilda" by Roald Dahl explore themes of resilience against adversity, encouraging children to believe in themselves and their power to change their circumstances.
Introducing elements of fantasy, such as magic, mythical creatures, or fantastical worlds, should be done with a sense of wonder and creativity. These elements should be integral to the plot and not just decorative. They should expand the reader's imagination and provide new ways for characters to solve problems and grow.
Conflict in children's fantasy often involves scenarios that require characters to make difficult choices or sacrifice for others. These conflicts can help impart moral lessons and character values, which are important components of children's literature. Stories like "The Spiderwick Chronicles" by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi show characters facing challenges that test their courage and ethics.
The antagonist or villain in a children's fantasy book should be formidable but not overly terrifying. It’s crucial that the villain's presence enhances the story's tension without causing undue fear in the reader. Antagonists should have motivations that are clear enough for children to understand and that justify their actions within the story.
Dialogue in children’s fantasy should be lively and character-driven. It should reflect the character's age, personality, and growth throughout the story. Dialogue is also a powerful tool for humor, which can make the story more enjoyable and engaging for young readers.
Humor is a key element in children’s fantasy, providing enjoyment and lightness to the story. It can also help in dealing with serious themes in a way that is accessible to children. A fine example is "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien, where humor is used to balance moments of danger and tension.
Educational elements, while not necessary, can be a valuable addition to children’s fantasy. These elements should be woven into the story in ways that enhance rather than detract from the narrative. For instance, the use of puzzles and riddles can subtly encourage problem-solving skills.
Inclusion and diversity should be considered when creating characters and settings. Offering a range of characters from different backgrounds can make the story more inclusive and relatable to a wider audience. This diversity can also introduce young readers to different cultures and perspectives.
Revising and editing a children's fantasy book requires special attention to pacing. The story should move quickly enough to keep young readers interested but allow enough time for character and plot development. Pacing can be adjusted through varying chapter lengths and mixing action with more reflective scenes.
Parental and adult characters in children's fantasy often serve as guides or mentors. However, it’s important that the children characters remain the heroes of the story, making key decisions and driving the action. This empowers young readers and aligns with their experiences of growing autonomy.
The ending of a children's fantasy novel should be satisfying and, ideally, hopeful. Even if the ending includes losses or sacrifices, it should provide closure and a sense of rightness, affirming the protagonist's journey and development.
Writing exercises for developing a children’s fantasy story could include brainstorming sessions focused on world-building, character development, and plotting out the key quest or challenge. Writers should also practice writing from the perspective of a child to better capture the voice and viewpoint of their young protagonists.
Seeking feedback from children in the intended age group can be incredibly valuable. Their reactions can help fine-tune the narrative, ensuring that the story is engaging and understandable to young readers.
Exploring classical myths, fairy tales, and folk stories can provide inspiration for themes, character archetypes, and plot structures. These traditional tales have universal appeal and can provide a rich foundation for new stories.
Finally, staying updated on current trends and interests among children can help make a fantasy story feel relevant and appealing. Engaging with contemporary issues within a fantasy context can allow children to explore and understand these issues in a safe and imaginative way.
In conclusion, writing fantasy for children involves a deep understanding of what captivates and motivates young readers. By weaving together imaginative elements, relatable characters, and meaningful themes, writers can create enchanting stories that entertain, inspire, and educate.
