Okay, okay, I know I got really snarky last we met. I was venting, for sure, about the number of people who assume publishing a children’s book is easy, whether it be through traditional routes or independent ones. Long story short: It isn’t easy. Most of us who have been successful did so over years and years of work. This is why it can feel insulting when people make assumptions.
But instead of continuing to harp on this, I thought I might share some resources that have been helpful to me along my journey, which started seriously in 2004 when I started writing my first book. Nearly 20 years ago. I have learned a lot. I’ve done my time, and continue to because even if I someday can live off writing (a dream!) it is an ever-evolving process. And publishing even more so. You have to keep educating yourself at every step.
Here are some places to go for help, grouped by those steps we all must take. Some will be continued in later newsletters.
Writing:
Because first of all firsts:
YOU MUST BE ABLE TO WRITE A GOOD BOOK
Do you need an MFA? Of course not. Does it help. Absolutely. All education helps. If you are interested in an MFA in writing for children, there are several programs out there. If you have a program to recommend, please do so in the comments! One of the greatest benefits to an MFA is that you have an automatic network of other writers, as well as people all over the industry. Plus if you have any desire to teach college level writing, it will give you some practice and the letters after your name to do so.
VCFA - This is my alma mater. I used to recommend it exclusively because it was by far the best higher ed experience I’ve had (I’ve had a lot) and it has produced countless successful authors. However, the program has recently dramatically changed, lost a lot of prominent, important faculty, has left its home base of Vermont and seems to be functioning more like a traveling circus than grad school. But I am confident that the faculty who are still there care about their students and the future of children’s literature a great deal and hopefully the structural reorganization dust will settle soon. The VCFA name will always be recognized in the literary world. (hopefully)
Hamline - Another top notch program with a ton of notoriety. I don’t have experience there as a student, but I know some of the faculty. Also always recognized.
UNR - This is where I currently teach. It’s a very tiny program in an idyllic setting (Lake Tahoe!) with a truly lovely writing community. It’s easier to get into than the last two I mentioned, yet has caring, established, and prolifically published faculty who will challenge you. Quality instruction with less admission competition.
But there are other ways to gain writing experience and a network, and furthering your education without taking out huge loans.
Highlights Foundation - I have been going to Highlights since around 2008. They have grown exponentially since then, offering classes and retreats with some of the most prominent authors and teachers in the industry. Yes, it can be pricey. However, they take complete care of you while you are there and the education is top notch. You won’t come away with the piece of paper, but you will receive graduate level instruction. They also offer generous scholarships and support a highly diverse attendance.
SCBWI - If you’re not familiar with the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, definitely check them out. There are regional chapters and national events and you will learn everything from writing or illustrating to a deep dive in publishing when you’re ready. A very helpful, supportive and informative group. Being a member gives you the most benefits, but there is plenty for non-members too.
Local writing conferences - This is how I began! Because I had no idea where to begin! I attended a small, inexpensive, local writing conference that was geared to all writers, not children’s writers specifically. And that was how I slowly, slowly began learning the ropes of publishing. The steps, the expectations, the etiquette, (ahem, last post), how to find an agent or editor, and much more. You can often enter contests or have your work critiqued and it can be a wonderful little confidence boost. I still have a couple great friends from the very first one I attended. Totally worth it.
FREE conferences/webinars - Yes, there are many! You don’t have to hound an author, you can just Google! (Sorry, the snark slipped out) Do an online search for some programming offered by people in the business of teaching or writing. Just be sure the people running the show have actual success in either of those fields. There are plenty of people out there selling knowledge and/or services who don’t have a book or teaching credit to their name. Research the presenters/organizations and make sure they have gone down the same road you want to travel.
Go to book festivals - Many regions have all kinds of book festivals. Find one near you and check it out. They usually have author panels, workshops or other learning opportunities and are frequently free. Not only can you learn there, you can meet authors, and support local bookstores. Win-win-win! (If you don’t have one near you, there are also some online!)
Keep working - No matter your route to improving your writing, be it school or workshops or conferences, the absolute two most important activities are to keep writing and reading what you want to write. If you don’t read children’s books, it’s going to be hard to write them. Now I don’t read much children’s anymore, but I keep myself up on what is published, what wins awards, what creates a buzz, what gets banned, and so forth. At some point you must take a deep dive in kid lit so you understand what kids read in the first place—especially if you want to seek publication. Look at what those authors have written, study their choices in language, vocabulary, themes, plots and characters. This education only requires a library card, so there is zero excuse for you not to be doing it on your own. In fact, it’s time for me to take a refresher course in what is publishing right now so I will take my own advice and let you know what books I’m reading soon!
That’s it for this week. In my next post, I’ll continue to repent and dive into how to find (and sign with) an agent.
Meanwhile, read that second to last paragraph again. ;-)
Fantastic advice! Networking networking networking
i would add maybe finding a book group or a writing group working at the same level you are. long (long!) ago i created a group for like-minded aspiring screenwriters where we shared work and whatever craft books we found. it was a good way to get some discipline (we met weekly) and learning how other writers think and work was fascinating.
locks SCBWI chapters have bulletin boards for people looking for crit groups.
and joining a book group can put you in touch with readers and how they respond to text. as you listen to other define and dissect story elements you can build a better sense of the reader experience and apply these things to your writing.