Use your skills as a children’s writer to help make the world a better place to grow up in, urges Amy Sparkes

Amy Sparkes

As writers, we share our thoughts, hopes and dreams through our stories. We can also use our books and abilities benevolently, simply because it helps make the world a better place. Here are some ideas to try.

Support local libraries

Libraries are facing difficult times. Let’s stand in solidarity with them.

• Libraries Week is 8-13 October. Ask libraries how you could be involved.

• Donate copies of your book to your local library.

• Support libraries via social media. Check out @librariesweek and @LibraryCampaign on Twitter.

Give to good causes

There are so many good causes and unfortunately you can’t support them all. To avoid being overwhelmed, overworked and overdrawn, decide what you’re particularly passionate about.

• Donate books for raffle prizes or as gifts for children’s hospitals (See Boxes 1 and 2).

• Participate in fundraising auctions. Your prize could be a free author visit or featuring a certain name in your next book. Be creative with your ideas!

• Give your time and energy by volunteering.

Supporting others

For more experienced authors, your name and time can be valuable. Do you have special skills which you could use?

• Attend a local or regional writers group (such as a SCBWI group) and encourage other aspiring authors.

• Offer feedback on stories.

• Join the discussion. Visit the Writing Magazine Talkback forum and be a voice of encouragement: www.writcrs-onlinc. CO. uk/talk-back/

SHARON HATTERSLEY

‘The Bookmark Project is an annual project run by myself and 1st Burleyin- Wharfedale Brownies. We reach out to authors, illustrators, actors and others in the public eye and ask them to design us a bookmark which we can auction. Bookmarks can be as simple or as detailed as the contributor likes – we have had everything from a sketch of the Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson to beautifully detailed works of art created by Nick East and Guy Parker Rees.