Founders Workshop

A Crash Course in the Business of Children's Book Publishing

This intensive weekend is designed to give you a comprehensive look at how the children’s book publishing industry works. You will gain understanding of all processes associated with submitting, producing, and selling a trade book or magazine article. You will learn from and make connections with children’s publishing insiders.

Workshop leader Clay Winters has served in almost every job imaginable connected with trade publishing. Clay will be joined by authors, illustrators, editors, art directors, and publishers who will sit down with you, answer questions, and provide you with the tools you need to advance your writing career.

Topics include

how to select a publisher;
trade book and magazine markets;
the mechanics of submitting your work;
the editorial process;
the design process;
contracts;
selling systems and promotion; and
opportunities in e-book and self publishing.

In addition, you will meet with your mentor for a one-on-one review of your manuscript.

Workshop Leader

Clay Winters

Clay Winters has served in almost every job imaginable connected with trade publishing. He has sold and marketed books as a retailer, wholesaler, and representative of trade publishing houses both giant and modest. Clay is a cofounder of Boyds Mills Press with Kent Brown and Larry Rosler.

Bobbie Combs

Bobbie’s knowledge of every corner of the children’s book publishing industry is astounding.

Katie Davis

Children’s author/illustrator Katie Davis has published nine books and appears monthly on the ABC affiliate show, Good Morning Connecticut, recommending great books for kids. She produces Brain Burps About Books, a podcast about kidlit; a blog; and a monthly newsletter.

Harold Underdown

Harold is an independent editor who works with authors and publishers. He has worked at Macmillan, Orchard, and Charlesbridge, and has experience in trade and educational publishing.

Neil Waldman

Neil's paintings and prints are included in prestigious collections around the world. His works have garnered him many honors, including a gold medal from the United Nations. Neil has also designed postage stamps for thirteen nations. He has illustrated nearly 50 books, and is also the writer of many of the most recent books.

Workshop Information

November

with an optional tour of Highlights for Children at 3PM

through

November

after lunch

$595

Request an Application