A Talk on the Essentials of Writing Picture Books
Those of us who write picture books often choose to do so because we want to recreate the transcendent magic we first experienced by listening to stories. Other times, we’re driven by a mission to cultivate empowering and just narratives through which the next generation can better understand themselves and their place in the larger world. When we carry these lofty goals into the creative process, however, writing can become a daunting task.
This session is for anyone struggling with their first steps on a children’s literature project, wondering “How do I make the magic happen?” Together, we’ll examine some strategies for creating engaging children’s books—simple poetic devices, relatable characters, enticing narratives—as well as some of the basic mechanics of the genre, such as the standard length and manuscript formatting. We’ll also touch on the process of polishing our work for publication.
+ PLEASE NOTE This talk will occur online via Zoom. Attendees do not need to create an account to participate, but should test out Zoom before the presentation if they are first-time users. The presenter and MWPA staff will not have the capacity to help attendees with tech issues during the talk.
+ REQUIRED EQUIPMENT A reliable, fast internet connection (broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE), speakers & a microphone (built-in or USB plug-in), and a webcam (built-in or USB plug-in).
If you would like to quickly and easily test your internet connection and your computer’s compatibility with Zoom, click HERE. Full details on supported Operating Systems, internet browsers, and more can be found HERE. To download and familiarize yourself with Zoom, click HERE.
Samara Cole Doyon is a children's book author, poet, educator, and mother. Her picture-book debut, Magnificent Homespun Brown, received starred reviews from Kirkus Reviews, Publisher’s Weekly, and School Library Journal. Magic Like That, her second picture-book, is forthcoming from Lee & Low in September 2021. She has been a regular contributor at Black Girl In Maine Media and has been featured in the “Deep Water” poetry column of the Portland Press Herald. She has been both a preschool and kindergarten classroom teacher and is currently MWPA’s office coordinator.
REGISTRATION
This talk is free for MWPA members and $5 for nonmembers. When you register below, you will receive an automatic email confirming your registration immediately, as well as an email with the link to join the talk on Thursday, May 20.
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