Upcoming Picture Book Conferences

The Highlights Foundation Announces Picture Book Conferences

At a recent workshop, New York Times best-selling picture-book author Alyssa Capucilli spoke of the responsibility that all children's book writers and illustrators have to their audience. She said, “It is with the picture book that we as children’s book creators can support and empower our readers. The picture book is more than a tool for literacy; equally, it is a guide to understanding our world.” Like Alyssa, we believe in the power of the picture book. We know that this art form holds in it beauty, emotion, and security.

The Highlights Foundation's fall lineup is filled with workshops to hone the craft of picture-book writing and illustrating. If you are interested in creating a picture book from scratch or polishing something you’ve been working on for years, we have a workshop to fit your needs. Follow the links below and find the workshop that is right for you.

From Prose to Pictures to Published: The Process of Writing a Picture Book
Through one-on-ones, group critiques, hands-on workshops, and private writing time, you can expect to leave with a completed dummy, ready for submission, and a clear understanding of what makes a picture book sell.

Workshop Leaders: Candace Fleming, Rebecca Kai Dotlich
Special Guests: Eric Rohmann, Melanie Hall

The Power of a Picture Book
Sweet and simple as these books may be, the formula for writing a picture book is quite complex. Through daily writing exercises, exposure to the best examples of picture-book writing, and intensive, one-on-one critiques of your work, you will learn how to turn your picture book idea into a powerful story for children.

Workshop Leader: Deborah Underwood
Special Guests: Kate O'Sullivan, Steve Metzger, Suzanne Bloom

Writing for Little Eyes and Little Ears: Read-Alouds for Early Learners
In the hands of a skilled writer, musical language can add immeasurably to meaning and overall effect. This workshop will show you how to make your writing sing. Learn to write books for early learners that beg to be read aloud and have kids pleading, “Read it again!”

Workshop Leader: Barbara Jean Hicks
Special Guests: Suzanne Bloom, Steve Metzger

Advanced Illustrators Workshop
During this intensive, five-day workshop you'll immerse yourself in illustration-oil wash on board, printmaking, pen and ink, watercolors, and more. Daily hands-on workshops will challenge you to sharpen your illustration skills, all under the support and guidance of our highly talented mentors.

Workshop Leaders: Floyd Cooper, Eric Rohmann, Kelly Ann Murphy, Ruth Sanderson
Special Guests: Donna Jo Napoli, David Wiesner, Robbin Gourley

The Brilliant Dummy: Creating a Picture-Book Dummy for Submission
Your mentors will break down thirty-two pages of picture-book content into what really belongs on the half-title page and full-title page; what is “front matter”; and what pages are best for tension, release, and the all-important happy ending. You will have individual attention that helps you refine your story and decide what images you plan to illustrate. Careful attention will be paid to text placement and page breaks, and whether to design double spreads, spot illustrations, or full bleeds. Your leaders will also share how to send your completed dummy to an editor or agent.

Workshop Leaders: Lindsay Barrett George, Judy Schachner

To secure your place at these or any of our additional workshops, please visit our website at www.highlightsfoundation.org. You can also call (570-253-1192) or e-mail Jo Lloyd (Jo.Lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org).

The Highlights Foundation is a public, not-for-profit 501©3 organization. We dedicate our efforts to connecting, nurturing, and inspiring children's book writers and illustrators.