Each new season, editors are assigned the books they'll take from idea to printed product. We get to say which books we'd like to do. But there are some books on the list that no one really wants. Math books. Editors never want math books. And, apparently, editors rarely want to work on books about how to write. But to get the books out, sometimes you gotta take one for the team, right? And that's what I thought I was doing when I started on the See It, Write It series. But as it turned out, this series is one of the best I've ever had the privilege to work on.
The See It, Write It series is based on the tried-and-true method of using photos as writing prompts. Two main things make these books really exciting. First, the imagery is simply stunning. We dug through thousands of photos, searching for the most beautiful, powerful, or interesting photos. We used everything from really powerful historical images to silly shots. The second thing that makes these books stand out is the “we teach, you try” format that is used throughout the books.
Here's how it works.
On the left-hand page, the text gives a tip about how a photo can inspire a certain part of your writing. 
The text asks questions, such as “What do these striped tights make you think of?” Then we offer examples of ideas, such as the Wicked Witch or watching your sister throw up at her dance recital.
The text also includes fun examples of the tip in use. In the poetry book, there’s a great example of using metaphor. You see the crocodile teeth in the image. The poem reads, “Sharp, strong teeth Strung together like polished, pointed pearls A necklace I DON’T want 
around my neck!”
After we teach and give an example, the right-hand page provides a stunning, full-page photo and writing prompt. The prompt asks readers to do exactly what we just talked about. “Look at this picture, and brainstorm at least three poem topics. If you’re having trouble, ask yourself what you were doing the last time you saw a grasshopper. What else is this shade of green? Write a poem using your favorite idea.” These prompts are concrete, detailed directions to inspire good writing.
These will be powerful writing tools, and we’re excited to get them into the hands of budding writers.
Happy Writing!
Jen Besel
Senior Editor
