ABSTRACT
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“A child’s mind is the most receptive to new ideas and thus more vulnerable to harm. When I write I pay attention to the subliminal messages that might be couched in words in order to make sure I do no harm to children. Too often people write for children without considering what the words will “feel” like in a classroom setting or a group. It is important to make sure you understand what your words mean, the subtle implications and the possible impact if handled by an insensitive adult. It is true that ‘sticks and stones can break your bones’ but it isn’t true that ‘words can’t hurt you.’ I am also vigilant when it comes to research, even when writing ‘fiction’ for children. If grapes can’t be smelled through a window in North Carolina in a particular month, then I take the reference out. As writers we must remember that our work should have power, the power to force children to think, to ponder the world they live in and to be directed to what is positive and good. Children need to be critical thinkers in order to thrive in our world. Let’s give them the tools they need. I also do not write stories that question the humanity of minority children. My premise is always that we are all one people. However, because I am aware that in the past minorities are usually relegated to the ‘bad guy,’ the ‘helper,’ or the ‘maid,’ I don’t put my minority characters in those situations. In most of my stories, minority characters are the heroes. In addition, I work hard to respect elders and their wisdom in my stories. No writing that I do is more important than what I write for children, because in the end, writers can, do and will change the world through children.”
