John C. Hamilton (2) (1959–)

This is a very simple book that methodically guides young writers on how to create their very own mystery novel (or at least a short story). Most appealing is the structure of the book. Perhaps most daunting to young writers is the "how" of putting their many ideas to the page. This direction is where the book ultimately succeeds. Every aspect of a work of fiction--- setting, characters, plot--- is helpfully laid out and not overwrought with too much detail. It's a book for young beginning writers and there is a helpful glossary of standard literary terms in the back. I think this series (You Write It!) would be a great addition to any middle school English classroom.… (meer)