Historical fiction in middlegrade can be a challenge for the most dedicated writers. With a target audience of 8–12-year-olds, some of whom have access to the latest and greatest in modern technology, how do you come up with a book idea that will appeal to them? Especially a book set in a time period that had none of the things they’re so attached to. No video games, no phones, no TV… no internet?
The thought alone can unnerve even the most seasoned writers. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of all is: Once you have a story idea and a time period to set it in, how do you craft an entire novel that will hold a kid’s attention until the end? How do you ensure it doesn’t
