Harriet the Spy 8/8

Chapters 12-16 Writing prompt

Welcome back, today is your final writing prompt for Harriet the Spy!

If you are new to these emails and are not sure what a prompt is, let me fill you in. A prompt is a creative writing exercise where I offer an idea to spark your own creative work. The idea is help you to further engage with the book. By adding your own creative thoughts, and applying lessons from how the book was written, you can strengthen your writing while having a little fun. If you would like more examples of prompts, always feel free to go back a browse past posts.

I can think of no better way to end discussion about this book than with a writing prompt. It’s the perfect way to honor Harriet’s obsession. So instead of a fictional piece of writing, for your prompt I would like you to keep a notebook for a day to observe the people and places around you.

Harriet lived in NYC, which is pretty rich territory for people watching, but really anywhere is just a good. Make sure you pay attention to details you see. What do you notice about what a person is wearing, or how they talk? What do you overhear? What is unique about who you are looking at? But most importantly, what are some questions that you have about them? It is ultimately Harriet’s curiosity that makes her a better writer and person so be sure to lean into what you find interesting.

I can’t wait to read what you observe! I’d love it if you shared your observations in the comments. And if you do nothing this holiday, make sure you share this post with a friend, or a few! Start to your very own spy club!

But seriously, sharing For the Love of Words with someone you think would enjoy it is probably the best thing I could ever wish for. Thank you for sharing and for reading.