Is a Middle Grade Necromancer Novel Publishable?

I would love to read such a book. The story of a 7th grader who is a necromancer would either be a great book or a terrible one; nothing in between. This means it’s a big risk. You are dealing with the heavy topic of death and how people relate to it, which is another significant risk. However, there’s only one way to find out if those risks will pay off: write the book. Write it well, get it read, and then worry about publishing it.

The Genre's Publishability

The concept of a middle-grade novel featuring a necromancer is publishable. For instance, Eva Ibbotson’s Which Witch and Dial-a-Ghost both deal with the occult and macabre in children’s literature. Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book, a middle-grade story about a boy growing up with dead people, is another excellent example. A quick Google search also reveals that Kelley Armstrong’s Darkest Powers series, centered around a teen necromancer, is aimed at young adults. Recently, Michael Scott’s middle-grade novel The Necromancer: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel also came out, which echoes the themes of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

These examples show that the concept has been successfully executed in the past. However, if you’re unfamiliar with children’s literature that delves into the occult and the macabre, it’s important to question why you want to write this book. Are you targeting middle schoolers and aiming for a particular genre? The key is not to worry about the concept itself but whether your writing skills and your ability to engage your chosen market are up to par.

Targeting the Right Audience

Make sure your writing is accessible to the target audience. If you’re writing for middle schoolers, you should tone down the vocabulary to ensure they can understand the story. While middle school me and my friends could read anything, not everyone else was just lazy. It’s crucial to consider the reading level and comprehension of your intended audience to make sure your story resonates with them.

Conclusion:

While the concept of a necromancer novel for middle-grade readers is definitely publishable, the quality of your writing and your ability to connect with your audience are what truly matter. Familiarize yourself with the genre and ensure that your story is well-written and appealing to your target market. With the right approach, you can make this book a success.