[Talent Is Not Enough: Mollie Hunter on Writing for Children] emerges as a major study of the writer's craft, concerned with but certainly not limited to the art of writing for children. All too frequently, such books fall into one of two categories: the conventional "how-to" guide with emphasis on practicalities or a semi-autobiographical apologia for the writer's own productions. Rarely do such accounts, however interesting, transcend immediate concerns and deserve commendation as statements of sound critical principles. The publication of Mollie Hunter's observations and commentaries is one of these rare events. As a writer of fantasy, realistic novels, and historical fiction, she has the disciplined perspective and the knowledge to translate years of research and work into a definitive, yet personal, provocative, and warm presentation. The book, enhanced by the wit and felicitous style which is characteristic of her novels, should be required reading for all who...