SCBWI Mid-Atlantic

This year we are happy to offer a writer’s and illustrator's retreat designed for SCBWI PAL members and advanced writers and illustrators 5/31 - 6/2. Our theme is “productivity and connection.” The event will be held at the Roslyn Event Center, a relaxing 150-acre venue on the James River. Lodging, meals, snacks, and WiFi are included, so all you need to do is focus on your own work. You may prefer to work alone, or you may want to attend the retreat with a partner or with members of your critique group.

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The Spring 2024 issue of Highlighter has the theme "Characters." Just as in Rachel Lofton's cover illustration, characters draw us in. They give our stories heart to make them meaningful and relatable for our readers. This issue is packed with tips and insights from Mid-Atlantic kidlit creators to help us bring our characters to life.

Sometimes, a story idea you might have is better suited for a different category. A picture book idea might be better suited as a chapter book, or an early reader, or a board book. But how do you know? And how do you tackle a new category? Writing across more categories means more opportunities to create and sell stories. Author and illustrator Vicky Fang talks about how to expand your storytelling skills to different categories, including board books, picture books, early readers, graphic novels, and chapter books. She’ll share her process for diving into a new category, as well as basic information to get familiar with each one. She’ll also provide insights into her overall approach to crafting and pitching.

Nancy Churnin will share craft techniques that will show you how to make stories about true events compelling and emotion-filled.