Wiki | Writing for Kids (While Raising Them)

Say what you will about Wikipedia—that it’s unreliable, that it’s unaccountable, that it’s run by a bunch of idealistic zealots—the fact remains that it is one of the most heavily accessed web resources in the world.

And so, one day as I was researching some of my favorite contemporary kidlit authors and illustrators, I found they were not mentioned in the online encyclopedia. Scott Magoon? Not there. Kate Messner? Nope. Tammi Sauer? Dagnabbit.

I think it’s time we rectified that situation. These folks deserve to go on record, especially those who have won awards for their work.

If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, I’d like to ask you a favor. Pick a favorite contemporary kidlit author or illustrator. Check to see if they’re in Wikipedia.

And if your favorite person is not there, pledge to create an article for that kidlitter by the end of March. Show your love for children’s literature and the people who create it!

Remember that Wikipedia wants you to source references when writing your article. There is a handy-dandy article creation wizard for those of you unfamiliar with the Wikipedia process.

If you are interested in participating, just leave your name and the name of your chosen kidlit personality below. I’ll check in at the end of this month with a master list of potential pages we’re creating.

C’mon, who’s with me?