I joined a Critique Group a while back, but since I have not yet published any of my works, I felt that I was not in a position to critique anyone’s work yet. However, my instructor at the Institute of Children’s Literature recommended that I just jump right in. She said there is no better way to learn, then getting involved. So that is what I did.

I attended my first Critique Group meeting this past Tuesday night. It was both very informative and enjoyable. The ladies in the group are very knowledgeable and pleasant and extremely helpful. Most of the group members write children’s picture books and their stories were really great.

They inspired me to possibly try my hand at that genre, although I have not yet made up my mind. Writing children’s picture books seems very difficult. You have to be able to tell your story using 500 words or less. You have to be able to visualize the possible illustrations that would go with the story. Because I think without the illustrations, the story may not be clearly understood.

My writing thus far has been focused on middle grade and young adult stories. I have been working on a young adult historical fiction and a story for middle graders. I’ve had several ideas for different stories, but nothing has yet been completed.

The only way to really master a craft, in my opinion, is to work at it daily. So I have been trying to learn all I can on a daily basis and work on my writing skills as often as I can. Maybe one day soon, I will complete one of my books and be able to submit it for publishing. But in the meantime, I will write as often and as much as I can, continue with my classes and learn as much as I can.

To all of you budding writers out there, just do it and enjoy.