In This Section
Thanks to picture books, we now know what happens if you give a mouse a cookie. But,
what happens if you give a writer an idea for a picture book? Well, that depends on
whether they understand the intricacies of that unique art form. Author Henry Herz
will explain how there’s a significant amount of craft that goes into creating an
endearing picture book, including writing, structure, plot, character development,
word choice, rhyme, pacing, themes, humor, and layout.
Discover how to break into children's writing by selling your skills as a writer,
rather than selling your manuscript. Author Rebecca Langston-George will share how
to create a compelling pitch packet that includes your skillset, interests, and writing
samples.
Description: Please check back soon.
Author Debbie Black will help you gather the basics you need to start (or finish)
that book! Few things are more rewarding than writing books for kids—from toddlers
to teens. We’re all kids at heart. So let yours come out and play—and write! But where
do you start? What age are your readers? What’s the difference between a picture book
and a chapter book? Is your subject matter more appropriate for tweens or teens? Debbie
will address these questions and more, and you’ll leave with clarity, direction and
revved-up enthusiasm. The only question you’ll still have is: “Why do I have to stop
writing to eat dinner? I’m on a roll!”
Author Sherry Shahan will take attendees through the process of creating emotional
depth while maintaining tension. Although this session is designed for writers with
a complete manuscript, all writers will benefit. Learn about the roles of subplots
and themes, how to incorporate age-appropriate “objective correlatives”, lively dialogue
that doesn’t “tell” the story, methods for recasting clichés to bring characters alive,
and more.