Let's Write a Children's Book

I invite you to join me on a journey – a journey that will hopefully lead to the publication of a historically-based book for children about Thomas Jefferson writing the Declaration of Independence. My objective is to write a story that children will enjoy reading and will learn from, as well as provide them with information that will enhance their understanding and appreciation of the Declaration of Independence.

Like most trips, I know the destination and the route, but I don’t know what might happen along the way. I would sincerely appreciate having the company and support of my friends and family as I work through this process. Our journey will cover everything involved in taking this book to publication: research, writing, editing, artwork, design and layout, printing and marketing.

The book will be divided into two sections. The first section will weave historical information and fiction together to create a story that I hope will entertain and teach nine to twelve-year-old children about the Declaration of Independence. The second section will contain additional information about the people and events surrounding this momentous event.

Since my college days, the founding of our country has fascinated me, beginning with the colonial period, the war for American independence, and culminating with the passage of the Declaration of Independence. In addition, Thomas Jefferson has always been one of my heroes.

This journey really began in 1973 when I wrote a short children’s book entitled, Thomas Jefferson Writes the Declaration of Independence. I spent a year trying to find a publisher. The closest I got was a North Carolina publisher that said he would like to publish the book, but his “catalog” was too full to take on any new projects for “another couple of years.” So I laid the book aside.

After last year’s publication of Nick & Sadie, I decided that my next project would be the Jefferson book. I plan to expand upon the 1973 story by providing more details about the main characters and the setting and more information about what led to the writing and signing of the Declaration.

The working title for now is Jefferson’s Masterpiece. As our journey progresses, I would appreciate hearing if you have any suggestions for another title.

Next week’s journal will offer details about the research I have been doing.

If you would rather not receive this weekly journal, please let me know by return email: dallenparker@earthlink.net.

Thank you for your time,
Dennis