Tell Your Story: Nonfiction

Nonfiction matters! Publishers crave it. Teachers and librarians need it. Nonfiction connects our children to the world. Stories about real people, real places, science and the physical world are more important now than ever.

Whether you’re writing biography, history, nature, or STEAM/STEM-themed books, we’ve got courses to help you do it.

Maybe you’ve had an idea for a true story and want to learn how to write it. Maybe you’re looking for a place to find community and learn what the industry is looking for in nonfiction books.

No matter where you are on your journey, we’re glad you’re here.  We can give you the skills you need to create the very best nonfiction for kids and teens.

Yellow background with note paper accents that says: I Leared a LOT and it was authentically helpful. It felt like they were sharing their knowedge and experiences as supportive mentors who wanted to help new authors coming up behind them.

A Crash Course in Children's Book Publishing

This course covers all aspects of children’s book publishing, from genres and types of books to working with a publisher (and everything in between). Material will be covered via live Zoom sessions and pre-recorded content.

You’ll also have access to weekly live office hours with faculty, and a 1:1 consultation after the course.

Inspiring Children Through Story

“My picture book … deals with parents separating. One little boy, who parents recently divorced, went to bed with [it] many nights. This deeply moved me to know this picture book helped this little boy.

“I tutor 2nd grade reluctant readers. My understanding of picture book structure and prose allows me to help them learn more than words. Rather than just read the story, we talk about it.”

“You mean I get to keep this book forever?”

…Spoken by a child in tears who was gifted with one of my books at a school visit and had never owned a book before.

“When I hear kids giggle while I’m reading [my book] I feel like I’ve done the job I intended to do.

Nonfiction Resources

Jennifer Swanson
Susan Campbell Bartoletti
Story is the Boss

An #HFGather with Sarah Aronson and Susan Campbell Bartoletti

5 Tips for Researching Photos for Your Nonfiction Book

5 Tips for Researching Photos for Your Nonfiction Book

3 Questions With Heidi EY Stemple and Andrea Page about Writing Nonfiction for Children

3 Questions With Heidi EY Stemple and Andrea Page about Writing Nonfiction for Children

My Path to Nonfiction (AKA, When What You Think You Want to Write and What You’re Good at Writing are Not the Same Thing)

My Path to Nonfiction (AKA, When What You Think You Want to Write and What You’re Good at Writing are Not the Same Thing)

(When) Do I Need Permission to Write About Real People and Events?

(When) Do I Need Permission to Write About Real People and Events?

Nonfiction Workshops

Research Techniques: A Two-Night Mini

Research Techniques: A Two-Night Mini

Starts: October 22, 2024

Marketing Opportunities for Storytellers: A Two Night Mini

Marketing Opportunities for Storytellers: A Two Night Mini

Starts: November 12, 2024

Working Retreat: Revision

Working Retreat: Revision

Starts: November 14, 2024

Free #HFGather: 2025 Scholarship Celebration and Information Session

Free #HFGather: 2025 Scholarship Celebration and Information Session

Starts: January 15, 2025

Get Involved at the Highlights Foundation

Stories from Our Highlights Foundation Alumni

Xavier’s Voice: Celebrating a Book Birthday with Ashley Franklin

Xavier’s Voice: Celebrating a Book Birthday with Ashley Franklin

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Nadia L. Hohn and TeMika Grooms

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Nadia L. Hohn and TeMika Grooms

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Anita Yusuda

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Anita Yusuda

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Nikki Shannon Smith

Celebrating a Book Birthday with Nikki Shannon Smith

Our Mission in Action

Share Your Story, Inspire a Child
Scholarships
Equity & Inclusion in Kidlit
Partners & Sponsors

The Highlights Foundation positively impacts children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform, educate, and inspire children to become their best selves.  Learn more about our impact.