Writers' Guidelines for ASK ^®

ASK is a nonfiction magazine for children 6-9 years old who are curious about science and the world they live in. Each issue of ASK is built around a central theme on some question or concept in the natural, physical, or social sciences, technology, mathematics, history, or the arts. ASK introduces kids to the joys of thinking, writing, and observing scientifically, and presumes them to be active participants in the ongoing search for better knowledge about the world.

 ASK articles should read as engaging nonfiction, not like school textbook or encyclopedia material. Intended to be accessible and appealing to newly independent readers (grades 2-5), the ideal  ASK article should also be interesting to any general adult reader. ASK looks for articles that are concrete, specific, and relevant to this age group. They should tell a good story, with an emphasis on ideas rather than just facts. ASK encourages the use of humor as a teaching strategy, and believes that no topic is beyond the grasp of an intelligent young person if explained well in plain terms.

 ASK encourages writers to stretch the boundaries of topic themes and come up with interesting perspectives and unexpected connections. For example, for an issue on size, good articles topics might include "Why do we stop growing?" or "How do clothing makers decide how many of each size pants to make?" But we would not be interested in a worlds-records style list of biggest and smallest insects, animals, etc., with no discussion of why they are that size.

Writing for ASK

All articles in ASK are commissioned;  ASK welcomes queries for articles for upcoming issue themes (see table below). Queries should give an overview of the proposed article, including scope and treatment, resources, and a draft opening paragraph. Writers new to ASK should also provide a resume and two writing samples, including at least 200 words of unedited copy on any nonfiction topic. Feature articles are usually 1200-1600 words, with sidebars.  ASK also occasionally commissions photo essays (400-600 words), humor pieces (200-400 words), short profiles of people, inventions, events, or the arts (200-400 words), and theme-appropriate experiments.

Authors are expected to ensure that all content is scientifically correct in both conception and detail, and drafts should include a full list of references and sources consulted.

Authors wishing to write for ASK should consult any current issue to get a sense of the tone, style, and range of articles.

Queries and questions should be directed to:

Editor, ASK Magazine
Carus Publishing
70 East Lake Street
Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60601
Or by e-mail to ask@caruspub.com

Authors are also encouraged to check the ASK author's page at http://askauthorpage.blogspot.com for current issue status, needs, and updates from the editor.

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Updated: 9/2/10 10:22 am
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