THANK YOU for attending the ‘Building a Picture Book’ workshop.
You’re all top of the class!
Below, as promised, are some resources.
In summary, signing up for the Pass It On newsletter is probably the best way to get a solid overview of what’s happening and to connect with organisations and fellow writers. Buzzwords Magazine is also good. See below for more details on both.
You can also download some of the key slides from the workshop here.
NOTE: these are for workshop attendees only - please don’t share them around.
My personal favourites:
Jen Storer’s Youtube ‘Questions and Quacks’ and 20 Creative Writing Essentials
These are ABSOLUTE GOLD and FREE. FInd Jen’s Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JenStorerAuthor_GirlandDuck
Marvellous podcasts
https://readingwithachanceoftacos.com/ - Ken is a great interviewer.
https://www.onemorepagepodcast.com/ - reviews, interview and insights from three very capable people in the industry.
Sites
https://www.jimfield.me/ - Jim Field is very generous in sharing his illustration process.
https://writerbeware.blog/ - be aware of scam ‘vanity publishers’!
http://blaine.org/sevenimpossiblethings/ - great blog about books.
Facebook groups
A subscription site costing $33 per month, which may seem a bit pricey for now. But it’s very much worth it if you’re ready to embark on joining the children’s book industry. Find out more here.
If that sounds a bit steep, first try:
Just Write for Kids - There are lots of opportunities on this group in particular.
Children’s Books Newsletters
Pass It On
https://jackiehoskingpio.wordpress.com
COST: $35 per annum
(quoted from Jackie’s site - may cost more now)
A fortnightly, networking e-zine for those involved with or interested in the CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITING & ILLUSTRATING INDUSTRY, with the latest and most up to date industry news.
General announcements from members and/or industry
Writers’/illustrators’ festivals
Competitions
Opportunities
Publisher guidelines
Workshops
Buzz Words Magazine
http://www.buzzwordsmagazine.com/p/about-buzz-words.html
COST: $48 per annum
Fortnightly e-zine with information on markets, opportunities competitions, courses, conferences, along with interviews, writing tips and special features such How I promote My Books and The Inside Scoop, where creators share the story of their path to publication.
Book reviews, resources and select articles are available on the website.
BuzzWorders' achievements and work samples are also showcased.
Memberships and conferences
SCBWI
The Victorian branch of SCBWI can be found here. They also have a blog.
You don’t need to be a member to go to the gatherings, or to access much of their site, but membership does offer discounts, access to critique groups, extra meetings, networking opportunities and access to competitions, mentorships and awards. Members can also share/advertise their new books in the newsletter.
CYA Conference
https://www.cyaconference.com/
The conference is a big deal, apparently, although this year’s has passed. CYA also offer a writing competition every year, which is a good opportunity to hone your text, and possibly get it in the hands of an editor. The competition and the conference are well respected, and the organisers like to champion new and emerging writers.
KIDLIT VIC
An intense children’s literature conference in Melbourne, with opportunities to pitch work, as well as lots of workshops with people all across the industry. This year’s is over. It does cost $$$s but it’s been very successful. Keep an eye open for 2023…
Publishers
SMALL TRADE PUBLISHERS THAT MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU
Ethicool – check their submission guidelines first. They may request that you purchase a manuscript assessment if your story isn’t quite right. Apparently these can work out quite well.
Starfish Bay Books – Currently accepting submissions - also offers ‘secondary publishing’ options, which are probably partnership publishing.
Big Sky Publishing – accepting submissions.
Ford Street Publishing – accepting submissions at the moment.
Midnight Sun Publishing – open for submissions. Accept some children’s manuscripts - must fit list.
PARTNERSHIP PUBLISHING
LIttle Steps - packages shown here.
There’s a good article on partnership and self-publishing here: https://www.writerscentre.com.au/blog/getting-published-what-are-my-options/
Self Publishing
(if you just want 2-3 copies for yourself and your family)
Try a website like blurb - or photobox.
You might need a graphic designer to help you with layout. You upload your content, they print copies and post them back to you, and you keep copyright.