Beloved and prolific writer Giff takes budding writers into the authorly process. Unlike many similar books that offer too much nitty-gritty, she uses her considerable skills to expose children to the spirit of writing as well as the technical details. She begins by telling readers a little about herself and introducing her golden retriever, Rosie, who becomes a character in the conversational prose. For instance, in the chapter on describing how to get action into the story, Giff notices Rosie chewing an old shoe, which means she wants to go out. But once the door is opened, she runs away. Action! Giff covers all the basics: characters, plot, voice, and spurring a story that seems stuck. Using examples from her own writings, she then tells readers that it's "your turn" and suggests short exercises. She also has chapters cleverly titled ("Can You See How I Did It?") that reinforce her lessons. The book's compact size belies how much information is packed inside. An excellent choice for writing classes or for individual inspiration.

Giff warmly documents the steps of her writing process, joined by her rambunctious dog, Rosie. Using excerpts from her own books, including Lily-s Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods, to help bolster the ideas being introduced, Giff explains how stories begin by coming up with -a person or two- to focus on, finding a setting for that person, and giving him or her a problem to solve. In later chapters, Giff walks readers through creating action and dialogue, as well as juggling the components of story. When writer-s block sets in, she offers clear and constructive advice: -Tell yourself it-s usually one or two things that make the story stop: a person who doesn-t seem real, or a problem that doesn-t make your person worry enough.- It-s an encouraging and frank look at the basics of storytelling, described with compassion and insight. Ages 8-12. (Aug.)

Gr 3-5 A step-by-step guide for young aspiring writers of fiction, featuring Giff's golden retriever, Rosie. In this loving and personal guide, Giff walks students through her own writing process, beginning with character ideas and moving on to cover plot, setting, dialogue, and more. Chapters like "Can You See How I Did It?" and "Your Turn" accompany lessons and challenge readers to give it their own go. For instance, readers are encouraged to think of a problem for their character and contemplate how it might be resolved ("If the problem were yours, would it worry you? Would you have to do something about it?"). While doling out the writing tips, Giff also reflects on Rosie, using the dog's antics to give the read a lighter touch. ("A reader wants action&30;the action I'm involved in right now is searching for Rosie. That dog is trouble!") VERDICT Likely to be popular with Giff fans, a supplemental purchase for classroom libraries. Megan Kilgallen, Packer Collegiate Institute, Brooklyn