Creating Characters Kids Will Love is really a must-have for the wanna-be children's writer. This book and "Story Sparkers" (also available here--look for the set and save money!) are the best write-for-children guides I own, and I own nearly every one on the market!

The fun large format makes this book feel sort of like a workbook (though it really isn't), and it's easy to just flip to a section and start reading some helpful info without starting at the beginning. This is how I find myself reading this books much of the time (I get stuck writing and take a break by just reading some advice out of one of these). There's some very good stuff here, and lots and lots of recommendations for books and magazines to read, if you're the kind who'll actually go find the stuff!

This book concentrates on character development, with some how-tos on plot structure and conflict (as they relate to character development!) thrown in. Also, if you're interested in writing true stories or maybe historical fiction, there are chapters for you. All in all, it's really a good read. Even if you don't relate to the author's own examples of writing, you'll come away with a better idea of what kids (and publishers) expect in your manuscript. Good luck!