Thanks, Catherine, for your great suggestion. Your idea makes it to the top of the Check-off List! Here's the new and revised list to use after you write your first draft of a chapter of a middle grade novel. It's great for the editing process. If you have anything you'd like to add to the list, please let me know!
Chapter Check-off List
for Middle Grade Novels
*Does your opening paragraph have a strong enough hook to draw the reader into the story? This needs to continue in each subsequent chapter, particularly following a great cliff hanger.
*Does the chapter end with a cliffhanger?
*Is the setting clear but not obtrusive?
*Are characterizations developed to make each person unique?
*Are main characters carrying more weight in each scene than the minor characters?
*Do the subplots work together to increase tension?
*Are the five senses included? Sight, sound, smell, hear, touch?
*Is the level of interest on target for this age range?
*Did anything slow down the forward progression of the plot such as: dialog, unnecessary scene, too much background information, too many details in the setting, bunny trail?
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