This workshop is full. To be added to the waitlist, email Meghan at programs@mainewriters.org.
A Children’s Book Writing Workshop
Level: All Levels
Choreographer Twyla Tharp wrote, “One idea does not make a story. You need a second idea to rub it against in order to make a fire.” In this workshop, we’ll explore how to feed the sparks of your initial ideas and inspirations and grow them into layered, complex stories that will burn bright in the eyes of editors and the minds of young readers. We’ll discuss strategies for approaching both first drafts and revisions, with special attention paid toward developing compelling plot and character arcs, and crossing external tensions and conflicts with internal ones. We'll parse the differences among the picture book, chapter book, middle grade, and young adult markets; discuss the nuances of structuring and revising your book with its ideal reader(s) in mind; and go deep on voice and character development. Bring your questions about writing, revising, and publishing; a pen and notebook; and a love of story. Open to writers of all experience levels.
+ PLEASE NOTE This workshop will occur online via Zoom. Students do not need to create an account to participate, but should test out Zoom before their class if they are first-time users. On Thursday October 27th from 5:30pm to 6:00pm, MWPA staff will offer a tech help session on Zoom. Students are encouraged to attend the tech help session, which usually takes only 5-10 minutes, if they have any tech concerns, use Zoom infrequently, or simply would like to test their connection, and those who do not are responsible for ensuring that they are able to use Zoom on their own. The week of the workshop, students will be emailed a link that they may click to enter the test session and the class.
+ 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.
Anica Mrose Rissi is the award-winning author of more than a dozen books for kids and teens, including picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and YA. Her essays have been published by The Writer and the New York Times, and she plays fiddle in and writes lyrics for the band Owen Lake and the Tragic Loves. Rissi grew up on Deer Isle and spent many years in New York City, where she worked as an executive editor in children’s book publishing. She currently lives in rural New Jersey with her very good dog, Sweet Potato, and teaches at the Vermont College of Fine Arts in their Writing for Children and Young Adults MFA program. Find out more at anicarissi.com and follow @anicarissi on Twitter and Instagram.
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
All MWPA workshops require advanced registration. We accept registration by phone, mail, and online via our website. We cannot guarantee registration in the final 24-hours before a workshop, and can rarely accommodate day-of registration.
PAYMENT & CANCELLATION POLICIES
If you need to withdraw from a class after registering for any reason, please email or call the MWPA immediately. You may be eligible for a partial refund or credit, depending on how far in advance you cancel. → MORE INFORMATION
QUESTIONS
For any questions regarding this workshop, please contact Meghan Sterling at programs@mainewriters.org.
REGISTER BY PHONE
Call 207-228-8263 and register with your VISA or MasterCard.
REGISTER BY MAIL
If you prefer to pay by mail, please print this registration form (downloadable PDF) and mail it to the MWPA with a check or credit card information.
SCHOLARSHIP
The MWPA is proud to offer one full scholarship to this workshop for members-only. Scholarships are awarded on a combination of need and merit. Email Meghan at programs@mainewriters.org to see if the scholarship is still available. Application Due by October 8th at 9:00 a.m.
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MWPA WORKSHOP POLICIES
Registration in any MWPA workshop, program, or event constitutes your agreement to our terms and conditions. → MORE INFORMATION