Creating a Chapter Book: The Evolution of Foxy and the Grump

The goal of this study was for an experienced writer of nonfiction to create a potentially marketable children\u27s novel and to document the process she followed in the development and completion of that book. Resulting from this project is the author\u27s first children\u27s book, a chapter book” entitled Foxy and the Grump. Topics addressed in this project include the selection of the chapter-book category, features of successful children\u27s novels, the inspiration for the Foxy story, the quest for credibility through research, the writer\u27s approach to breathing life into the story, and reader feedback. The true incident on which Foxy is based seemed most manageable and relatable in chapter-book form—appropriate for children in the seven-to-ten age group, as well as for adults. The writer performed an analysis of children\u27s books over the past thirty years to reveal five bestsellers that are also multiple-award winners and have earned the prestigious Newbery Medal. The only chapter book in this elite group is Patricia MacLachlan\u27s Sarah, Plain and Tall. Thus, attention to the qualities of Sarah has helped determine what appeals to readers of chapter books. The writer maintains that a good children\u27s book engages, entertains, enriches, and educates. To enhance her efforts, the writer participated in an online writers\u27 seminar and joined an international professional organization. An important complement in this endeavor was feedback from several readers: children and adults who appreciate children\u27s literature. Fifteen of eighteen people responded by deadline and generously offered constructive criticism. Their feedback has encouraged the writer to seek publication. Her next project is to do just that