Writing
Writing a bear book for children
An all-levels writing course exploring bear characters and children’s story structure through discussion, analysis and independent writing.
Choose a date before booking
Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
Participants examine examples and extracts from children’s bear books, spanning picture books, short stories and novels. The course considers why bears recur in children’s fiction, including their symbolic and psychological associations, and identifies features that make a bear character effective. Tutor-led discussion, feedback, pair and group work are combined with independent writing. Learners develop a bear character, explore the basic elements and structure of a children’s book, and begin planning or writing a story featuring their character.
What you'll learn
- Explain the significance and use of bears as characters in children’s books.
- Develop a bear character for a picture book, short story or novel.
- Identify basic elements and structural features of children’s books.
- Plan and begin writing a children’s story featuring a bear character.
Is this course right for you?
The course is listed as suitable for learners at all levels and does not require special educational attainments. Participants should be able to write fluent English. Sessions combine independent writing with tutor and peer discussion, feedback, and pair or group work.
- Illustration skills are not needed.
- Work may be discussed in an open workshop setting with the tutor and other learners.
Before you go
- Bring a notebook and writing materials.
- A laptop may be used if preferred.
