Telling It True: How to Write Nonfiction Kids (and Teens) Want to Read

By Kirsten W. Larson

Want to write nonfiction for children-but aren't sure where to start?

Telling It True is a practical, encouraging guide to writing nonfiction for kids and teens, from picture books to middle grade and young adult nonfiction. Whether you dream of writing

nonfiction picture books, kidlit magazine articles, or school and library nonfiction, this book shows you how to turn real facts into stories young readers can't put down.

Written by award-winning children's nonfiction author and educator Kirsten W. Larson, this book demystifies the children's publishing industry and helps writers understand audience, market, and nonfiction craft-no prior publishing experience required.

Inside you'll learn how to:

Find strong nonfiction story ideas for kids and teensUnderstand the different types of children's nonfiction (picture books, middle grade, YA, magazines, and educational publishing)Match your idea to the right audience, age range, and marketResearch accurately and write engaging, fact-based storiesStructure nonfiction so it reads like a story-not a textbookRevise your work into a submission-ready draftNavigate publishing paths, including traditional publishing and self-publishing

Perfect for:

Writers new to children's nonfiction writingPicture book writers expanding into nonfictionTeachers and librarians writing for young readersJournalists or academics transitioning to kidlitAuthors seeking a clear overview of the business aspects of writing for children

Grounded in 15+ years of professional writing, editing, and teaching experience-and packed with examples, exercises, and resources-

Telling It True helps you write nonfiction that is accurate, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for young readers. If you believe that truth really is stranger (and better) than fiction, this book will help you tell it well.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GHNWX7W3
• ISBN13: 9798989691623
• Release Date: January 2026
• Publisher: Both/And
• Length: 298 Pages
• Weight: 0.88 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"