[YB Posts: 22 Status: Offline I love kids' books!]

Hello,
I just finished revising my MG manuscript, and there is one question remaining:  should I divide it into numerous chapters to keep the reader occupied?  I have initially created only three big chapters based on the plot, but  would it make it difficult for this age group to keep on reading?
 

[anastasia-suen Posts: 14 Status: Offline]

I have initially created only three big chapters based on the plot, but  would it make it difficult for this age group to keep on reading?

A 3 chapter book is fine for a beginning reader book (ages 4-8), but some beginning reader books have 5 chapters and the next step up, the early chapter book (ages 6-9) has 8-10 chapters. A middle grade book (ages 8-12) is two steps above a 3 chapter book, so these readers  expect to see even more chapters.  Look for the turning points and place a chapter break there. 

[Vijaya Posts: 7,164 Status: Offline Encourage WWW]

YB, Anastasia has given you excellent guidelines. Turning points make good chapter endings. Also some scene breaks. How long is your book?
MG has a huge variety...here's a helpful post from a literary agent to determine what type of book you've written: http://literaticat.blogspot.com/2011/05/wordcount-dracula.html

[YB Posts: 22 Status: Offline I love kids' books!]

Thank you so much! Your advice is truly helpful.

[Debbie Vilardi Posts: 7,003 Status: Offline Language is so cool! WWW]

Some kids (and adults) find very long chapters daunting. Just something for you to consider.

[Mrs. Jones Posts: 1,311 Status: Offline WWW]

It sounds like you've divided your ms into "parts," not chapters.  I would look at dividing those parts into chapters by analyzing where scenes naturally break, and where you can put "page-turning" endings that lead a reader to turn to the next chapter.

Also, maybe go to the bookstore and take a look at the MG books on the shelves. That alone will give you an idea of what agents and editors and especially readers are expecting.

[YB Posts: 22 Status: Offline I love kids' books!]

Parts indeed! Than you so much. Now I have 37 chapters.