Workshops

Creating Picture Books with Humor and Heart: A Working Retreat 2018 | November 8 – November 11, 2018

A writing-intensive workshop to prepare your picture book for submission.

Two award-winning, bestselling authors, Emily Jenkins and Elise Broach, and acclaimed picture book editor and publisher Christy Ottaviano (Christy Ottaviano Books/Henry Holt) will guide you through the process of creating funny, emotionally satisfying picture books that connect with young readers. Topics include:

• Powerful beginnings and endings
• Devising a compelling arc
• Establishing a distinctive style/voice
• Creating unique but relatable characters
• Identifying your hook
• Accessing your inner comedian
• Using rhythm and repetition
• Exploring the emotional lives of children
• Revising for humor and heart

Attendees are asked to bring two complete picture book manuscripts of 1000 words or fewer, one for individual critique with a faculty mentor and one for workshopping with fellow students. Mornings will be structured around lectures and workshops; afternoons will be for writing and revising.

Faculty blog posts:
Emily Jenkins–3 Tips for Writing Funny Picture Books

Faculty & Special Guests

Elise Broach

Emily Jenkins

Christy Ottaviano