Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators: The organization for professional book writers and illustrators. You don’t have to be published to join. SCBWI-Michigan (www.kidsbooklink.org) is the Michigan chapter.

Underdown: A wealth of information for writers and illustrators, including interviews with authors, an archive of useful articles, and a "how do I get it published" quiz.

Institute of Children’s Literature: Free information about writing for children and the children’s publishing industry.

The Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market (Writers Digest Books): Published annually, this book contains informative articles about the craft and business of writing for children, as well as current listings of publishers and agents and their preferences.

The Iowa Summer Writing Festival: Offers weekend and weeklong writing courses on many genres and forms. Highly recommended for writers who are serious about improving their craft and looking for a supportive setting in which to do so.

Children’s Book Council: A non-profit trade organization dedicated to encouraging literacy and the use and enjoyment of children’s books. Includes FAQs about publishing.

Write4kids.com: Another great site for learning about writing for children and the children’s publishing industry.

Intentional Living: A jugglezine.com piece relevant to aspiring writers who want to find the time to write.

What to Expect When You Get Published: Written by an agent, this article is realistic look at what happens after a writer gets The Call.

Book industry statistics compiled by Dan Poynter. A real eye-opener!

Calming the Inner Critic and Getting to Work by Allegra Goodman: An outstanding piece on how to get over yourself and your insecurities and just write. (You have to register, but registration is free and the piece is well worth the time it takes.)

The Big List of Authors by State: Compiled and maintained by children's author Kim Norman, this list makes finding an author for a school visit a snap!