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This section
gives news of anthologies in progress and notice of poems wanted for new
anthologies, as well as information on current projects. Keep logging in
as the links will change every so often and you never know what poems I'll
need! |
CURRENT PROJECTS and
ANTHOLOGY NEWS
If and when
poems are submitted, please observe the following :
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All poems must be sent by post and NOT EMAIL to:
P.O. Box, 25, Retford, Notts, DN22 1ER
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One poem per sheet of paper
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Your name and address must appear on each poem
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If the poem has been published before please note any
details at the bottom of the page
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Poems cannot be returned
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If acknowledgement of receipt is required please
enclose a stamped addressed postcard
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Do read the guidelines for writing for children (writing
tips)
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Happy writing!
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Writing for children’s
anthologies can be a good way into print. Don’t send loads of poems off to
a publisher, they’ll either get lost in a pile or passed on to one of
their editors, who will lose it in a pile. The best thing to do is to
contact the editor direct and ask to be included on their mailing list.
What usually happens is that when an anthology is commissioned the editor
writes out to prospective poets asking for poems on a given theme or
subject.
When contacting an
editor:
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Don’t send
wads of poems.
-
Write a
brief letter of introduction asking to be informed of any anthologies.
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Include any
relevant biog / publishing details
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Include a
SAE
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Be patient
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Be very,
very patient
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If you
receive a letter about an anthology or get to know of poems needed and
want to write for the book:
-
Read lots of children’s poetry. See what
works, the different styles, the language levels, the tone that is
appropriate.
-
Read any request letter carefully. Be sure
what the editor is looking for. Don’t just see the word “school” in the
brief and send all your school poems.
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Don’t send too many poems – the editor will
get bored!
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Always put your name and address on any
sheet with a poem on
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Think round the subject – be as original as
you can, don’t be too obvious. Remember there will be lots of
competition. You’ve either got to be very, very good or different … or
both!
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It isn’t always the best poems that get
chosen – it’s the widest variety in terms of subject matter, style,
rhythm, rhyme, form, tone. The overall collection will be balanced, and
the editor is looking for range.
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If possible try your poems out on the target
audience beforehand.
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Don’t dumb down but don’t be too childish
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Have fun – entertaining poems are always
popular, but there’s usually room for a few thoughtful and more gentle
pieces.
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Get them in by the deadline!
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Be patient – you will only hear if your
poems make it.
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Don’t hassle the editor!
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