Help with my students writing their own books.

We have this Book Writing Contest going on in my school this year. Can you give me any ideas that have worked for you guys in regards to having your kids write their own books following a model of a great childrens book. I stared to let them be creative and just pick a writing from their portfolio but it's beginning to become a disaster.

I teach 2nd grade and I am so brain fried with our new math program that I am just at a loss for being creative. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!!!

Re: Help with my students writing their own books.

we just finished the ezra jack keats bookmaking contest. google it, they had very specific lessons to help teach the book making process. it was very difficult to get quality books out of my 4th graders. good luck!