The internet has changed the world of writing.  We all know that.  Sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse.  As writers we have all certainly benefited from the opportunity to do research on the web, to use email to keep in touch with our friends and colleagues, and to build an audience for our work through blogs and social networks.  Here at Screw Iowa, we’re particularly excited about using the internet to connect writers to one another, no matter where they live or what they write.  Check out our forum, if you haven’t already—you just might find the kindred spirit you’ve been looking for, to read your work and share your enthusiasm. 

 

At the same time, however, we all know that the internet has created tremendous challenges for writers.   Journalists are losing their jobs as print newspapers and magazines go out of business.  People have replaced reading books with reading online.  Sometimes it seems as if the younger generation isn’t reading books anymore at all.

 

That’s why it’s particularly heartening to hear of a publisher who’s figured out a way to harness the power of the interent to engage children in books.  Check it out—the writer’s name is Rick Riordan and his new book,  “The Maze of Bones,” has just been published by Scholastic.  “Bones” is the first of a mystery series for children, each one highlighting a different historical figure.  What makes the series unique is that Scholastic is partnering with the internet by creating a website where children will be able to enlarge their reading experience with a game. Educational and fun.  What could be better?

 

We all have a tendency to—let’s be honest here—whine about the internet and how it’s taken our readers away from books.   But wise writers will stop thinking about the internet as competition and start thinking of it as an opportunity.  What can you do to engage readers in your work?  How have you found the internet helpful in your writing life?  Let us know—we’d love to hear.

 

You can read more about Scholastic’s new series on The New York Times.