Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

The 19th Biennial Conference on Literature and Hawaii's Children: June 8-9, 2018

Interested in writing and/or illustrating children's books? The 19th Biennial Conference on Literature and Hawaii's Children, June 6-9 at Chaminade University is free for anyone interested in children's and YA literature.



I'll be presenting three topics:

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 • 3:00 p – 4:15 p
 
CREATING LITERATURE: How to Write and Sell Picture Book Biographies 
Ellie Crowe
 and Tammy Yee 
There is a constant market for good biographies in the school market. Ellie Crowe tells how to pick a great subject, research, plot, escalate the stakes, and provide a good climax and ending when writing biographies for elementary and middle school readers. Tammy Yee tells how to research the background for meaningful illustrations that create and add depth to a picture book biography. 

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 • 10:15 a–11:30 a  

CREATING LITERATURE: Write Like an Illustrator; Illustrate Like a Writer 
Tammy Yee 

Like the lyrics and melody of a song, the words and art of a picture book work synergistically to create a composition that is richer than its individual parts. In this session we’ll explore the nuances of writing and illustrating picture books, and how to create memorable characters and stories by writing what the pictures don’t show and illustrating what the words don’t tell.

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 • 1:00 p – 3:15 p
 
TEEN TRACK: Creating Impact in Children’s Book Illustration 
Tammy Yee 

Bring along a sketchbook and pencil, and we’ll explore how to bring characters to life and create compelling visual narratives through composition, symbolism and pacing. Optional: Bring portfolio samples (no originals, please) for feedback. (Workshop for youth, only.)

Friday, February 26, 2016

2016 SCBWI Hawaii Conference and Workshop

My introduction to writing and illustrating children's books was Uri Shulevitz's guide, Writing With Pictures--I still have it on my bookshelf--and the thought of attending an SCBWI conference terrified me. I came away from my first conference overstimulated and overwhelmed, but also energized and inspired. Through the years, I've learned that there is no better way to meet other author and illustrators, develop your writing and illustrating, and learn from the best in the industry. 

 So if you happen to be in Hawaii this March, join us for our 2016 SCBWI Hawaii Conference: 

Smooth Sailing
in the Sea of Children’s Book Publishing


March 18 – 19, William S. Richardson Law School, University of Hawaii at Manoa

with

DAN SANTAT, Author-Illustrator, 2015 Caldecott Medal Recipient


SUZIE TOWNSEND, Agent


NAOMI LONG EAGLESON, Editor


KIRSTEN CARLSON, Local Author-Illustrator

Featuring workshops and breakout sessions for authors and illustrators, First Pages/First Look Critique Panel, industry tips and more. 
If you would like to attend Dan Santat's Friday workshop, Art School in One Day, contact hawaii@scbwi.org.

FACULTY BIOS:

dansantatDAN SANTAT, Author-Illustrator, 2015 Caldecott Medal Recipient
Dan has been a proud member of the SCBWI since 2001. He has since published over fifty books for children, which include the Ricky Ricotta's Mighty Robot series by Dav Pilkey, Oh No! (Or How My Science Project Destroyed the World) by Mac Barnett which won the Silver Medal from the Society of Illustrators, and the New York Times best-selling book, Because I'm Your Dad by Ahmet Zappa. Dan has also the author of the graphic novel, Sidekicks, which has won numerous state book awards, and is the current recipient of the 2015 Randolph Caldecott Medal for his book, The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend. He is also the creator of the Disney animated series, The Replacements. Visit him at www.dantat.com.
 
IMG_2698SUZIE TOWNSEND, Director of Literary Services & Literary Agent, New Leaf Literary & Media
Suzie represents all brands of children's and adult fiction. She is actively looking to build her list. In adult, she's specifically looking for new adult, romance (all subgenres), fantasy (urban fantasy, science fiction, steampunk, epic fantasy) and crime fiction (mysteries, thrillers). In Childrens' she loves YA (all subgenres) and is dying to find great Middle Grade projects. Suzie loves strong characters and voice driven stories that break out of the typical tropes of their genres. For more info on her clients and projects: http://www.publishersmarketplace.com/members/sztownsend81/. Follow her on twitter (https://twitter.com/sztownsend81).
 
Naomi-Long-Eagleson-The-Artful-EditorNAOMI LONG EAGLESON, Editor
Naomi Long Eagleson is the founder of The Artful Editor, a book editing company based in Los Angeles. She helps writers improve and polish their manuscripts for publication. She has an MFA from the Iowa Writers' Workshop and has worked as an assistant editor at Manoa Journal and as a manuscript reviewer at Mutual Publishing. She has edited over a hundred books, including children’s books and young adult fiction. www.artfuleditor.com
 
KirstenKIRSTEN CARLSON, Author-Illustrator
Kirsten’s background in biology, scientific illustration and graphic design lend themselves well to interpreting stories about nature for children. In addition to picture books, her work as an author/illustrator has also appeared in periodicals, including National Geographic and Phycologia. She won the First Place Award for Realistic Portfolio at the 2003 and 2004 SCBWI Conferences. Kirsten is the Illustrator Coordinator for SCBWI Hawaii, and a past Regional Advisor for SCBWI Germany+Austria. www.kirstencarlson.net
 

The Art of Creating Children's Books


Interested in writing and illustrating children's books? SCBWI Hawaii is presenting several events that might be of interest to authors, illustrators, educators and librarians:



THE ART OF CREATING CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Free art exhibit and panel discussion at the Hawaii State Library Adult Reading Room

FREE PANEL DISCUSSION: SAT., FEBRUARY 27, 2-4 p.m.
https://hawaii.scbwi.org/events/so-you-want-to-write-a-childrens-book-2/
Join us for a free discussion on getting started in writing and illustrating for children, and meet our panelists, authors and author-illustrators James Rumford, Scott Goto, Sue Cowing, Chris Caravalho and Vera Arita.

ART EXHIBIT:  FEBRUARY 11 - MARCH 30
https://hawaii.scbwi.org/events/art-exhibit-the-art-of-creating-childrens-books/
What does it take to create a children's book? View the notes, rough sketches and final children's book artwork of SCBWI authors and illustrators. Featuring the work of Chris Caravalho, Kirsten Carlson, Sue Cowing, Scott Goto, Leslie Hayashi, Mariko Merritt, Elizabeth Oh, Esther Szegedy and Tammy Yee.
 

 

Sunday, November 8, 2015

Business Tips and Taxes for Writers and Illustrators Webinar with author, CPA, Carol Topp

We work diligently at our craft, but what about the business side of writing and illustrating? The Texas Chapter of SCBWI is hosting a webinar this Tuesday, November 10 to help you structure your writing and illustrating business, keep records, and understand sales tax and deductions. The fee is only $10 for SCBWI members--one of the many reasons to renew your membership or join!

For information and registration, visit https://northtexas.scbwi.org/events/webinar-business-tips-taxes-with-author-cpa-carol-topp/

Sunday, October 4, 2015

Writers on Writing: Ian McEwan on Finding Confidence

A revealing interview by author Ian McEwan (Atonement):
“I don't feel confident at all. No I don't. Sometimes I pick up some work I finished fifteen years ago and think, am I as good as that now? Could I do that again? No, I think you'll find most writers are not confident they can just turn out books...There's a great difference between that all that public world of prizes and interviews and public readings and the private world of the closed door, and the hiss of silence--and here we are again, and what can you make come out of this of silence. And you can't relax about it, you can't be certain that you can do it again."

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Interested in Writing and Illustrating Children's Books?

Registration is now open for the 
SCBWI-HAWAII (Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators) 
2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN HONOLULU, HAWAII 

MARCH 6-7 


This year's annual craft workshop and conference will feature three special guests: authors Susan Fletcher and Sarah Ellis, and Associate Editor Kat Brzozowski. The optional craft workshop, led by Susan and Sarah, will help you hone your skills in plotting. The full-day conference will feature breakout sessions by Susan, Sarah and Kat, first-page critiques, optional manuscript and portfolio critiques by professionals, and ample networking opportunities. Space is limited, so sign up now!

https://hawaii.scbwi.org/events/2015-scbwi-hawaii-annual-conference/

http://hawaii.scbwi.org/wp-content/blogs.dir/32/files/2015/01/Registration-Packet-AC-2015.pdf

Monday, December 3, 2012

2013 SCBWI-HAWAII ANNUAL CONFERENCE


Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators - Hawaii Annual Conference

Saturday, February 23, 2013 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Ala Moana Hotel, Garden Lanai Room

Hear what's trending in the world of children's books, polish your writing and/or illustration skills, hang out with "your" people, and take advantage of the option of having your work critiqued by a professional.
The day will be chock full of insider information that is sure to inspire both beginners and experienced writers and illustrators—and just might put you on the road to publication.
Our extraordinary featured speakers:
  • Lin Oliver: award-winning author of more than two dozen books, and co-founder/executive
  • Cheryl Klein: executive editor, Arthur A. Levine Books/Scholastic

Program:
8:30-9:00 a.m. Registration/Welcome/Announcements
9:00-10:00 a.m. Cheryl Klein: Hook Your Readers into Your Characters from the Beginning of Your Story
10:00-10:45 a.m. Lin Oliver: 15 Things I've Learned About Creating Books for Kids
10:45-11:00 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. First Page/First Look: Cheryl, Lin
12:15-1:30 p.m. Lunch
1:45-3:30 p.m. Craft Breakout (choose one):
A– Cheryl Klein: Some Best Practices for Illustrators
B – Lin Oliver: Writing Great Dialogue
3:30-4:00 p.m. Q&A/Closing

Registration deadlines:
*January18, 2012: conference and manuscript critique
*February19, 2013: conference alone or with workshop or portfolio critique
(Late fee applied to registration after February 19; meal availability will be at the discretion of the hotel.)

GENERAL SESSIONS
Hook Readers into Your Characters from the Beginning of Your Story—Cheryl Klein
Whether you are writing a picture book or novel or doing illustrations, your readers (including editors, agents and art directors) need to connect with your characters immediately to want to keep turning the pages—you have to hook them "right" from the start. Learn how it's done from an experienced editor.
The 15 Most Important Things I've Learned about Creating Books for Kids—Lin Oliver
Since founding SCBWI more than 40 years ago, Lin Oliver has listened to the wisdom offered by virtually every great children’s book creator of our age. Much of this body of information has been distilled into 15 concise yet profound pieces of advice, an essential list of do’s and don’ts for people who create children’s books. Share in her ringside seat to learn what the "best of the best" have to say.
First Pages/First Look Critiques—Cheryl Klein and Lin Oliver
When you have only a page or two, or an illustration or two, to gain the attention of an editor or agent, making a good first impression is a must. Our guests will share their reactions to first pages and postcards/illustrations submitted anonymously by participants. No advance sign-up is needed, and no extra cost.
First page format: double-spaced, 12-pt. type, one-inch margins, no name, title okay, note whether a picture book, middle grade or young adult fiction, or nonfiction.
No additional fee. Bring one first page and/or one postcard or illustration to the conference; they’ll be collected at registration.Pages and postcards/illustrations are selected at random and no particular page or postcard/illustration can be guaranteed to be critiqued during the session.
  
BREAK-OUT SESSIONS
A: Cheryl Klein: Some Best Practices for Illustrators
Cheryl will share some of the good things she sees successful illustrators doing in this session that will combine craft and marketing. As an added bonus, there will be a showing of SCBWI's "Master Class" DVD with renowned illustrator, and Newbury and Caldecott winner, Tomie dePaola, the creator of more than 200 books.
B: Lin Oliver: Writing Effective Dialogue
Great dialogue is so much more than just making your characters speak. It conveys the drama of your story, reveals character, adds pace and rhythm, and pulls readers into the essence of your book. In this session, you’ll learn eight basic rules for creating effective, real, believable and interesting dialogue that propels your story forward and creates an unforgettable voice for each of your characters.

OPTIONAL MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUE
For critique, your registration form and manuscript must be postmarked by January 18, 2013. Manuscript critiques will be done by Cheryl Klein, Lin Oliver, and Hawaii children’s writing professionals at assigned times on conference day (including after the conclusion of the day). Guidelines for submitting a manuscript for critique:
  • Format:double-spaced,12-pt. type, one-inch margins, title/page number on all pages.
  • Picture books: six-page maximum. Novels: ten pages plus one-page summary.
  • No folders, binders, cardboard, plastic sheets. No artwork except for author/illustrators submitting story with dummy.
Additional fee—sign up on registration form.

OPTIONAL PORTFOLIO CRITIQUE
Portfolio critiques will be done by Cheryl Klein or a Hawaii children’s illustration professional at assigned times on conference day; bring portfolio to conference.
Additional fee—sign up on registration form.

SPEAKER BIOS
Cheryl Klein is the executive editor at Arthur A. Levine Books, an imprint of Scholastic. Among the titles she has edited are MARCELO IN THE REAL WORLD by Francisco X. Stork, winner of the ALA's Schneider Family Book Award for Teens; A CURSE DARK AS GOLD by Elizabeth Bunce, winner of the Morris Award for a YA Debut Novel; WORDS IN THE DUST, winner of the Christopher Medal; THE SNOW DAY by Komako Sakai, a New York Times Best Illustrated Book; THE SAVAGE FORTRESS by Sarwat Chadda, and ZOE GETS READY, by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. She also served as the continuity editor in the U.S. for the last two books of the Harry Potter series. Her book SECOND SIGHT: AN EDITOR'S TALKS ON WRITING, REVISING, AND PUBLISHING BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS was published in 2011.
Lin Oliver is a leading children’s book author and writer-producer of family films, television series and movies for children. With co-author Henry Winkler, she writes the New York Times best-selling series HANK ZIPZER: WORLD’S BEST UNDERACHIEVER, which has sold almost four million copies, as well as GHOST BUDDY, a new comedy series; the first two GHOST BUDDIES books, ZERO TO HERO and MIND IF I READ YOUR MIND?, are available now. She is also the author of four comedy novels that comprise the WHO SHRUNK DANIEL FUNK? quartet. Lin’s current projects are SOUND BENDER and its sequel THE SHADOW MASK, middle-grade adventure novels that she co-authors with her son, Theo Baker, and she is also working ALMOST IDENTICAL, a series about tween twin girls, the first two books of which have been published. In addition, she produced the animated feature TRUMPET OF THE SWAN and has written and produced over 300 half-hours of television, including HARRY AND THE HENDERSONS, CORDUROY and WAYSIDE SCHOOLAs if all that weren't enough,Lin is also the co-founder of SCBWI, an international organization of 22,000 writers, illustrators and publishers of children’s books, and she serves as its Executive Director.


Monday, November 5, 2012

BIG SUR WRITING WORKSHOPS

BIG SUR WRITING WORKSHOP | November 30 - December 2, 2012 | Big Sur Lodge, Pfeiffer State Park, CA

Interested in writing picture books, early readers, middle grade and YA fiction? These intensive workshops feature agents from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency; editors from HarperCollins, Little Brown, Chronicle and Philomel; and an array of award-winning authors.

As a former attendee, I can vouch for the quality of the faculty and session content--they have a track record of workshop alumni landing publishing contracts. Bring your laptop and be prepared to work and revise your manuscript!

The registration deadline for the Big Sur Writing Workshops has been extended to November 11. To complete registration, you must submit your first two pages of text, or the entire picture book text:

Sunday, October 21, 2012

14th ANNUAL SCBWI WINTER CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK


SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) Winter Conference February 1-3, 2013 | New York, New York 

With an amazing line up of keynote speakers and panels, SCBWI's 14th annual winter conference promises to sell-out. Mark your calendars now! The p
rogram for February 2-3 includes:

Keynote Addresses by:
Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton
Margaret Peterson Haddix
Meg Rosoff
Shaun Tan
Mo Willems

and Up To The Minute Market Information including:
-Retail Bookseller's Panel: What's Selling Now
-What Hooks Me Breakout Sessions: led by 12 acquiring editors and 2 art directors

Registration opens October 19, 10am PDT:
http://www.scbwi.org/Pages.aspx/Current-News?SCBWI-WINTER-2013-REGISTRATION-BEGINS-OCTOBER-19TH-AT-10AM-PDT

Monday, October 8, 2012

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Call for Submissions: Harper Voyager Announces Global Digital Publishing Opportunity

"The submission portal, www.harpervoyagersubmissions.com, will be open from the 1st to the 14th of October 2012. The manuscripts will then be read and those most suited to the global Harper Voyager list will be selected jointly by editors in the USA, UK and Australia.  Accepted submissions will benefit from the full publishing process: accepted manuscripts will be edited; and the finished titles will receive online marketing and sales support in World English markets.

Voyager will be seeking an array of adult and young adult speculative fiction for digital publication, but particularly novels written in the epic fantasy, science fiction, urban fantasy, horror, dystopia and supernatural genres. Submission guidelines and key information can be found at www.harpervoyagersubmissions.com."

 

PUBLISHING OPPORTUNITY FOR HAWAII WRITERS

Here's another possibility--I'm not endorsing any company or publishing contest--remember to always read the fine print.

"
Looking For Authors in Upcoming Hawaii Book!


 Become a published author in an upcoming book for worldwide e-distribution and print. Everyone is focused on 2012, politics 

and elections, economic issues, and what mainstream media is 
telling everyone about negativity.
 Hawaii Wellness Directory and Worth Grace Media are 

responding by partnering in a special creative collaboration 
to highlight messages of hope - for beyond 2012. 
Be a part of this opportunity to give your heartfelt message of encouragement, inspiration and guidance to people around the world.


DEADLINE-October 15th 2012


We are accepting 100 submissions to be featured and published in December 2012. 


Five (5) judges will be reviewing entries to select the messages that move us the most. You must live in Hawaii part-time or full-time. 
Authors will receive ongoing support via networking throughout 2013 from HWD and WGM "

Sunday, April 29, 2012

SCBWI ANNUAL SUMMER CONFERENCE IN L.A.


August 3 - 6, 2012  |  Los Angeles, California
 
Get ready for an unforgettable experience with the very best in the field of children's literature! Over a jam-packed weekend you'll hear from top agents and editors on the state of the market, get inspired by award-winning authors and illustrators, discuss how to progress your career, attend small, targeted breakout workshops, connect with old friends and meet new ones!

Whether you are an author or illustrator, published or unpublished, create picture books or young adult novels, you won't want to miss the SCBWI Summer Conference.

Keynote Speakers Include:   
Bryan Collier, Caldecott honor illustrator 
 
Karen Cushman,  Newbery Medal winning author   

Tony DiTerlizzi , Author/illustrator of The Spiderwick Chronicles and Caldecott Honor recipient  

Dan Gutman,  Award-winning author

Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medal Winner   

Gary Schmidt, Two-time Newbery winner

Ruta Sepetys,  Award-winning (including the Golden Kite Award) author of Shades of Gray

Sara Shepard, Author of the Pretty Little Liars and Lying Game Series      

Deborah Underwood, Award-winning (including Crystal Kite Award) author 

Clare Vanderpool, Newbery medal winner     

PLUS a host of editors and agents discussing the industry from publishing houses and literary agencies including: Harper Collins, Penguin Young Readers Group, Writer's House, Scholastic, Simon and Schuster, Abrams, Random House and more.  

With your registration you get:
-Access to all conference keynotes and workshops
-The Gala Party on Saturday night (includes dinner and a drink ticket)
-Ticket to the Golden Kite Luncheon on Sunday
-Attendance to the Friday night Portfolio Showcase and cocktail party
-Chance to sell your books at the PAL book sale on Friday (some restrictions apply)
-Tea and coffee each morning
-Free wireless in your room

For an extra special weekend you can also register for: 
A Manuscript or Portfolio Consultation
The Juried Portfolio Showcase
Two of the post-conference intensive workshops (Writers choose one of two including:  9 Agents, 1 Morning;  9 Agents, 1 Afternoon; Independent Publishing; Spitshine: Polishing your Novel; First Pages; Developing your Hook; Picture Books; Revising your MG/YA Novel and more to be announced! Illustrators can register for the all-day illustrator intensive, Writing for Illustrators.)

Registration opens April 18th at 10am PDT. This conference sells out so don't delay!  

General Information:

 Conference Tuition:
Tuition includes all conference workshops & events (excluding consultations and showcases) from Friday - Sunday, August 3-5, 2012, including the dinner dance on Saturday night and the Golden Kite luncheon on Sunday. Tuition does not include the Post-Conference intensive on Monday, August 6.

Early Registration (Before June 15th):
$440 - SCBWI Member  Registration
$540 - Non-member Registration

Regular Registration (After June 15th):
$460 - SCBWI Member  Registration
$560- Non-Member Registration

 Intensives and Extras:

 MANUSCRIPT & PORTFOLIO CONSULTATIONS
$100 Individual Manuscript or Portfolio Consultation

JURIED PORTFOLIO SHOWCASE
$50 Portfolio Entry in Juried Showcase

POST CONFERENCE INTENSIVES
(Full day of programming on Monday, August 6th)
$200 -  Post-Conference Intensives for Writers
$200 -  Post-Conference Intensive for Illustrators

Venue Information:

Hyatt Regency Century Plaza
2025 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067
(800) 233-1234
(310) 228-1234

Conference attendees get a special room rate of $199 (Valid until June 1)

How to register:

You can register online at www.SCBWI.org or by phone (323-782-1010) starting April  18th at 10am PDT. You must be a current SCBWI member at the time of registration and the conference to be eligible for the member's discount.

Full conference schedule and more details will be available in Early April.

Can't attend? Follow the action virtually!

SCBWI Conference Blog
(http://scbwiconference.blogspot.com/)

In the weeks leading up to the conference, we'll feature interviews with our prestigious faculty so that you can know what to expect and look forward to. Click on the link above to see pictures and video as well as recaps of every workshop, keynote address, panel and intensive at our semi-annual SCBWI International Conferences.

 On twitter! Our speakers, attendees and bloggers will be tweeting! Follow us and the hash tag #SCBWI to get the latest.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Sunday, February 19, 2012

SCBWI-Hawaii’s Annual Conference, February 25, 2012


SCBWI-Hawaii's Annual Conference will be held at the Ala Moana Hotel from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $95 for SCBWI members and $125 for nonmembers. For details and registration see www.scbwihawaii.org. or download conference and registration information at http/scbwihawaii.org/attachments/info_and_registraton.pdf.

Featured speakers include Kendra Levin, editor at Viking Children’s books, and Peter Brown, award-winning author/illustrator of The Curious Garden and Children Make Terrible Pets.

Kendra Levin
Peter Brown

Kendra will do a general session on Viking and the kinds of books they publish, and what she specifically is looking for, and she’ll also talk about current trends in children’s publishing. She’ll also lead a breakout session called “Meet Your Character: How Motivation Drives Story.”

Peter will do a general session on leading a creative life and a breakout session called “Illustration at Work.” Kendra and Peter will also lead a First Pages/First Look general session. In addition, local author Sue Cowing and local author/illustrator Tammy Yee will lead a general session called “Book Promotion—a Do-It-Yourself Project.”

Friday, October 21, 2011

Not to be Missed: Fiction Workshop with Donna Jo Napoli

I took a workshop from Donna Jo, and she's stellar:



Fiction Workshop with Donna Jo Napoli
Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10, 2011
 Donna Jo Napoli, multi-award-winning author of dozens of middle grade and YA novels and picture books (and a university professor of linguistics) will be back by popular demand for another great fiction-writing workshop. (See her website at www.donnajonapoli.com) The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10; Friday’s location is Paki Hale (adjacent to Kapiolani Park) and Saturday’s location is the Aina Haina Library meeting room. Cost is $200 for members, $225 to nonmembers. Enrollment is limited, and the workshop is almost full. Preference to members. To sign up and/or for more information, please email Lynne at lwikoff@lava.net.

THE WORLD OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE WITH AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR AND YOSEMITE NATURALIST MICHAEL ELSOHN ROSS

Passing it on...

THE WORLD OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE WITH AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR AND YOSEMITE NATURALIST MICHAEL ELSOHN ROSS

UHM Outreach College Noncredit Workshop

Writing Your Children's Book
with Michael Elsohn Ross
Tuesday and Thursday, Nov 3 & Nov 8 • 6:00-9:00pm • UHM George Hall 214 • $65 • To register: 956-8400 or www.outreach.hawaii.edu/noncredit

"What impresses me years later is that I wrote a kids' book without knowing much about children's literature. Ignorance was bliss, because I wrote and illustrated free of the constraints of trying to fit a mold. I created with kids in mind..."-- Michael Elsohn Ross

Writing books for children is very different from other genres since the audiences are kids and the publishers, buyers, and librarians are adults. Michael Elsohn Ross, naturalist and award-winning author of over 40 books for children, offers this entertaining and informative class for anyone with a love of children's literature, and an interest in writing or illustrating books.

In his 2-day workshop, Ross explores the wide variety of styles and formats of current books, and shares some useful writing and publishing tools gleaned from his extensive experience in the field. Participants will have a chance to write and edit short pieces, as well as gain an overview of the publishing process.

Michael Elsohn Ross lives on a bluff overlooking the Merced River, right next to Yosemite National Park. Since 1975 he has worked as a naturalist in Yosemite where he continues to lead field classes for the Yosemite Association. He is the educational director of Yosemite Guides and teaches writing workshops at Cal State Fresno and other US Mainland colleges.

Ross' nature and science books include Sandbox Scientists, a guide to setting up science activities for 2-8-year-olds; Cycles, a series of books introducing young people to various cycles in nature and the environment; You're the Scientist books, providing a creative outlet for young experimenters; and The Happy Camper Handbook, a guide to help kids prepare for camping in the great outdoors. Picture books include Snug as a Bug, Baby Bear Isn't Hungry, and What's the Matter in Mr. Whisker's Room?  Turning from science to art, Ross wrote Nature Art with Chiura Obata, a biography of a Japanese-American artist who was interned during World War II and
a related title, Salvador Dali and the Surrealists: Their Lives and Ideals. Ross also added to the "World's Children" book series with Children of Northern Ireland and Children of Puerto Rico.

Visit the author's website at: http://www.bugauthor.com/


Sunday, April 24, 2011

Oregon Coast Children's Book Writers Workshop

Passing it along, from http://www.occbww.com/:

OREGON COAST CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS WORKSHOP, SUMMER 2011


This summer, July 11-15 we will proudly present the ninth Oregon Coast Children's Book Writers Workshop, www.occbww.com, in the exquisite Oregon coast town of Oceanside.  At this time the class is three-quarters full.  If you care to join us, probably it would be a good idea to sign up soon by using the registration form at the site.


The instructors for the workshop will include five established children's book authors (between them, specializing in YA and middle school novels, picture books, non-fiction, magazine pieces, and poetry), two children's book editors from major houses, and one children's book agent.  Summer Workshop 2011 promises to be our best yet because:


- The instructor-student ratio will be a maximum of one to seven
- Each day you will meet with an instructor for at least one comprehensive consultation
- You can have one-on-one informal meetings with instructors each day as well
- Every student who wishes can have an anonymous first page manuscript critique by all eight instructors in front of the class
- We will offer at least twelve instructional lectures on various aspects of writing and publishing
- There will be two evening presentations by instructors
- Out-of-class consultations with instructors are available
- There will be at least three guest lectures/writing workshops
- There will be two wonderful parties (quite appropriate for friends, partners, spouses, children)


If you are ambitious to publish a children's book (or simply adore children's books) this is the workshop for you.   It will allow you to connect directly with authors, editors, agents who are active in the children's book business. If you go to the website and look under Evaluations, you'll see that it's received extraordinarily high praise.


The course is available for graduate credit.


For complete information visit www.occbww.com


Saturday, March 19, 2011

Southampton Writers Conference

I don't endorse workshops that I haven't personally attended, but I can attest from having participated in SCBWI conferences in LA and Hawaii, the Maui Writer's Conference (where I secured an agent), and the Big Sur Children's Writing Workshop, that these events can be energizing opportunities to learn from professionals and network.

Here's information I received about the upcoming Southampton Writers Conference, focusing on writing, playwriting, screenwriting and writing for children:

Be one of the 240 writers who visit our bucolic campus this summer to study with Pulitzer Prize, Guggenheim Fellowship, and National Book Award winners in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, memoir, novel, personal essay, short story, playwriting, children’s literature, YA novel, screenwriting, and the musical book.  

12 to 1 student-faculty ratio
9 am to 9 pm emersion in workshops, electives, and evening events
5 and 11 day conferences
A thriving community of writers
Graduate credit available

Now in its 36th year, The Southampton Writers Conference is excited to announce its summer lineup:

Southampton Writers Conference - July 13-24, 2011
Creative Nonfiction with Matthew Klam
Fiction with Melissa Bank
Memoir with Roger Rosenblatt
Novel with Meg Wolitzer
Poetry with Billy Collins
Poetry with Mark Doty
Poetry with Julie Sheehan
Personal Essay with David Rakoff
Short Story with TBA

Southampton Playwriting Conference - July 6-10, 2011/ July 13-24 2011
Session I: July 6-10 (5 days) Playwriting with Adam Bock
Session I: July 6-10 (5 days) Playwriting with Leslie Ayvazian
Session II: July 13-24 (11 days) Musical Book with Marsha Norman
Session II: July 13-24 (11 days) Playwriting with Emily Mann
Session II: July 13-24 (11 days) Playwriting with Jon Robin Baitz

Southampton Screenwriting Conference - July 6-10, 2011
How to Write Stronger Scenes with Andrew Bienen
Structuring Your Screenplay with Christina Lazaridi
Finding Your Story with Frank Pugliese
Breaking The Back of Your Story with Paula Brancato
TBA with Stephen Molton

Southampton Children’s Literature Conference - July 6-10, 2011
You Don't Have to Choose: Lessons Learned While Balancing Playful Picture Books with Rigorous Research with Chris Barton
Hearing Voices: Writing YA Fiction with Patricia McCormick
The Write Stuff: Nonfiction and Historical Fiction with Andrea Davis Pinkney
How to Extract a Fable: Writing with Message and Mission with Peter H. Reynolds
All in the Telling: Writing the Middle Grade Novel with Tor Seidler

Visit www.stonybrook.edu/writers for more information, author bios and applications

Friday, February 11, 2011

SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators) Conference in Hawaii

2011 SCBWI-Hawaii Conference Preview



Reka Simonsen, executive editor at Houghton Children’s Books
Author John Ritter
Illustrator Michael Furuya

Our 2011 conference is set for Saturday, February 19, at the Ala Moana Hotel, Ilima Room, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Featured guests will be Reka Simonsen, executive editor at Houghton Children’s Books, author John Ritter, and illustrator Michael Furuya. Plan to come and “be with your people” at this inspiring annual event!

In addition, John Ritter will lead an optional fiction workshop, “How to Give your Stories Depth, Interest and Intrigue,” for conference attendees the day before the conference, Friday, February 18, at Paki Hale from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch and schmooze until 2:30 p.m.
We have emailed complete information recently, and it is also available at the link below, but here are some of the highlights.

For all:
  • “A Primer on Queries and Synopses and Postcards” with Reka Simonsen.
  • “How to Make Your Website Work for You (even if you don’t have one yet)” panel discussion with John Ritter, Tammy Yee, Sue Wyshynski and Elizabeth Oh.
  • first-pages/first look session with Reka Simonsen, John Ritter and Michael Furuya.
  • optional manuscript and portfolio critiques.
Especially for writers:
  • session with acclaimed novelist John Ritter (www.johnhritter.com ) “Is Your Issue Showing?: how to explore cultural or political themes in our books without sacrificing story”
  • optional fiction workshop with John Ritter (for novelists and picture book writers)
Especially for illustrators:
  • “From page to Stage and Beyond,” session with children’s book illustrator and ‘Ohi‘a Productions co-founder Michael Furuya.
Costs and Deadlines:
The cost of the February 19th conference (including lunch) is $90 for members, or $120 for nonmembers, with additional fees for optional manuscript, dummy, or portfolio critiques.

The cost of the optional February 18th fiction workshop with John Ritter is $60 for members and $85 for nonmembers (space available); optional lunch is an additional $15.  Please note: you must be registered for the conference to attend the workshop.

Postmark deadline to register for the conference with manuscript critique is January 18, 2011. You must send your manuscript(s) in with your registration and fee(s).
Deadline to register for the conference and fiction workshop is February 11, 2011.
Deadline to register for the conference alone or with portfolio critique is February11, 2011.

2011 SCBWI-Hawaii Conference Information and Registration

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Work Isn't Over Once You're Published....

It's in the contract:
"The Authors agree to promote the Work to the best of his/her abilities...particularly in the first quarter following the Work's publication..."
Expect to find a similar clause in all your contracts, detailing your required participation in autograph sessions, interviews, and digital promotion on websites and social networking sites.

In the New York Times editorial, "I Wrote It, Must I Also Hustle It?" television personality and author Dick Cavett details his experience in having to promote his latest book, coming off of a dozen back-to-back radio interviews. We should all be so lucky, but what he drives home is the responsibility for authors to participate in promoting their work. Another article by Mr. Cavett details what many authors (including myself) have experienced: finding that stores haven't been able to sell your books, despite all the promotion you've done, not because they've been selling out but because they haven't been getting them from the publisher: "An Author’s Nightmare."



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