Review: Fleur Bradley's Get a Clue: How to Plot, Write, and Sell Your MG or YA Mystery

 

Get a Clue cover by Damonza

 

Award winning author Fleur Bradley’s latest book, Get a Clue: How to Plot, Write, and Sell Your MG or YA Mystery is a succinct exploration of the process of writing a mystery from beginning to end. With an eponymous publisher and a green high top sneaker on the cover designed by Damonza, Ms. Bradley describes plotting based on sequences such as those in films of 100 years ago. She explains character development, plot progression, clues and finding time to write as well as pitches, jacket flap copy and writing organizations such as The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.

The written explanations of pitches and back covers are excellent. It would be nice to see an illustration or photo of the back cover of a mystery with the pitch and explanation pointed out. (I have no idea what the legal and/or financial requirements would be.)

This book will appeal to those who would like structure and/or guidance on their writing journey and it would be a helpful resource for those teaching writing workshops to middle grade and high school students.

Source: Purchased by self. Published in 2026, the book is a slim 126 pages which includes Resources.

Internal and External links:

Visit author: Fleur Bradley  

Learn more about: The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators

Previous interviews with Fleur Bradley: Daybreak on Raven Island  and 

    Midnight at the Barclay Hotel 

Visit James Ponti's Writing Workshop Videos:  James Ponti Resources scroll all the way down to access the videos.

Visit Greg Pattridge host of: Marvelous Middle Grade Monday