Top Books to Help Kids Think Like an Author

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page—it’s about thinking like an author and making intentional choices. When students learn to notice an author’s purpose, choices, and structure, they begin to understand how powerful writing is.

Encouraging kids to read with curiosity and an author’s eye helps them develop stronger comprehension, creativity, and communication skills. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or caregiver, the right books can invite students behind the scenes of the writing process. Below are some of the best books that help kids think like authors by exploring voice, structure, perspective, and the intentional choices writers make.

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1. Kid Authors: True Tales of Childhood from Famous Writers by David Stabler

   

   
   

2. A Walk in the Woods by Hudson Talbott

   

   
   

3. The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds

   

   
   

4. Who is J.K. Rowling? by Pam Pollack

   

   
   

5. Who Was Roald Dahl? by True Kelley

   

   
   

6. How to Write a Story by Kate Messner

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I hope your students enjoy developing an author's mindset with these educational books. By shifting the lens, students become more engaged, more excited, and you will see more effort. Here is an additional "Think Like an Author" lesson plan that will help young writers develop their writing skills even more!