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

10 Things to Consider When Writing A Picture Book Biography

10 Things to Consider When Writing A Picture Book Biography

Writing for the Educational Market: 5 Articles to Open the Door

Writing for the Educational Market: 5 Articles to Open the Door

Writing Nonfiction for Kids & Teens: 7 Articles That Show You How

Writing Nonfiction for Kids & Teens: 7 Articles That Show You How

7 Articles to Help You Write Powerful Picture Books

7 Articles to Help You Write Powerful Picture Books

Nonfiction Workshops

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Get Involved at the Highlights Foundation

Stories from Our Highlights Foundation Alumni

Cover Reveal: Xavier’s Voice by Ashley Franklin

Cover Reveal: Xavier’s Voice by Ashley Franklin

With Scholarship Support, Rachel Werner Grows Her Passion Project: Expanding Inclusion in Narratives

With Scholarship Support, Rachel Werner Grows Her Passion Project: Expanding Inclusion in Narratives

Celebration Station: Fall 2023

Celebration Station: Fall 2023

PJ Library Summer Camp Brings Jewish Creatives to the Highlights Foundation

PJ Library Summer Camp Brings Jewish Creatives to the Highlights Foundation

Our Mission in Action

Share Your Story, Inspire a Child
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Equity & Inclusion in Kidlit
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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.