Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Highlights Workshops and Other Conferences

I’m a big fan of writing conferences, especially the Highlights Foundation Workshops. The faculty is always experienced, knowledgeable, approachable and friendly.

Some workshop topics include learning how to write board books, picture books, novels, fairy tales, mysteries, poetry, nonfiction, how to market your book, school visits and many others. 

Questions to investigate when considering a writing conference: Is the faculty scholarly? Do they write or have expertise in the subject of their workshop? Are they published in that subject? 

Reading their bio critically will answer most of these questions. If there is no education listed, check their website for school(s) attended or prior jobs. If publishing credits are absent, do an Amazon search.

What is the format? Lecture or hands-on-workshops? Peer critiques? Panel discussions? Pick a format that meets your current needs.

Writing conferences abound and many are excellent. Do your research, ask others who have attended them or trust your gut.

Click the link below to see a full list of Highlights workshops with descriptions.
This link is to an upcoming Highlights picture book workshop on June 7 - June 10, 2018 with Leslie Helakoski and Darcy Pattison.
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/workshops/pbj-picture-books-and-all-that-jazz-2018/

30 Conferences for author, bloggers and freelancers

A state list of conferences (not all inclusive, but a mix of small and large conferences).
https://www.newpages.com/writers-resources/writing-conferences-events

Bonus link!
Leslie Helakoski and Darcy Pattison have posted a list of 9 Picture Book Topics to Avoid.
http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/3705/leslie-helakoski-and-darcy-pattison-9-picture-book-topics-to-avoid/







1 comment:

  1. Helpful information! Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed the Highlights conferences I attended. There’s nothing quite like the encouragement from a supportive writers community!

    ReplyDelete