Wow, August is usually quiet, but not this year! There’s a LOT happening this month, from the virtual SCBWI conference to a slew of webinars for both writers and illustrators. Dive in!
To see what’s available in coming months, visit the PICTURE BOOK SUPPORT resource page. Or if graphic novels are your thing, check out these KIDLIT GRAPHIC NOVEL RESOURCES.
Click the links to go directly to each list.
AUGUST EVENTS
Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, Awards, and Events
Webinars & Conferences
Multi-Week Courses
Fee or free? Here’s a key:
(free) – no fee to enter or to participate
($) – fee to enter or to participate
(*See note) – look for *explanation within the blurb
AUGUST EVENTS
Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards
We Need Diverse Books Mentorships (free)
Pairs writers and illustrators who belong to underrepresented groups with experienced children’s book creators for year-long mentorships. The 2025 Mentorship Program will be open for applications from August 15 – September 15, 2024. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their application materials early.
AuGHOST (free) (Moved from Twitter to Mastadon for 2023)
#AuGHOST is an all-skills, all-inclusive, all-for-fun daily art event. For each day in August, draw or create something “ghosty” that’s inspired by that day’s prompt word and post it on Mastadon with #AuGHOST. It’s fun and friendly! Status for 2024 unclear, check site or reach out to organizer if interested. Created and (g)hosted by @Sommerjam.
Webinars & Conferences
Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.
UNBanning Books Panel (free)
This free digital Zoom will feature panelists Betsy Gomez, Arthur Levine, Maggie Tokuda-Hall, Lee Rowland, and Kyle Zimmer. August 1, 2024, 5:30pm Eastern Time. From SCBWI National.
SCBWI Summer Virtual Conference ($)
Join SCBWI for the annual virtual Summer Conference! Keynotes, panels, breakout sessions, tracks for illustrators, self-publishing authors, traditionally published authors, and nonfiction authors, online socials, and opportunities to pitch to acquiring agents and editors. Attendees have access to content of all 50 sessions for up to one month after conference concludes. August 3 – 4, 2024.
Getting the Gig: Speaking Opportunities For Storytellers ($)
Whether you want to set up school visits, participate in literary festivals, and/or pitch your ideas to storyteller organizations, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris wants to help you “get the gig!” and “get paid!” August 6 & August 8, 2024, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.
Twisting a Classic ($)
In this workshop with author Kalee Gwarjanski, we will study picture books that have taken a classic story and twisted it into something new. August 7, 2024, 5 – 6 pm Eastern Time. From SCBWI New England.
Writing Nonfiction Picture Books: Finding the Focus ($)
What goes into your nonfiction picture book text, and what goes into the back matter? Author Barbara Lowell shows you how to find a focus for your manuscript with great examples from the best in nonfiction picture books. August 10, 2024, 10 – 11am Central Time. From SCBWI Oklahoma / Arkansas.
Writing Leveled Readers for Education ($)
Similar to picture books, leveled readers are a standard component of K–6 reading programs. They’re a fun way to expand your writing for young people while getting paid! Sonny Regelman—instructor. August 10, 2024, 2 – 5pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.
Telling Stories with Words and Pictures ($)
In this craft class, illustrators will work through some of the aspects of conceiving and developing stories that combine both words and pictures, whether for picture books or longer form illustrated texts. Pam Smy, presenter. August 10, 2024, 1 – 5pm British Summer Time. From SCBWI British Isles.
Writing About Climate Change for Kids (free)
Amplifying black voices for social justice, racial equity, and caring for our planet. Join authors Pam Courtney, Andrea Loney, and Crystal Allen as they discuss one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change. This impassioned #HFGather will explore the power of storytelling to inspire meaningful change for our future. August 12, 2024, 7:30 – 8:30pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.
Children’s Picture Book Story vs Short Story ($)
Explore the differences between the two forms and what writers need to consider when creating either short stories for magazines or picture book stories. Instructor: Denise Vega. Wed, Aug 14, 2024, 4:30pm – 6:30pm Mountain Time. From Lighthouse Writers.
Top Ten Tips for Creating Picture Books ($)
Come join Writing & Illustrating for Young Readers to learn with author/illustrator Julie Olson about how to create a picture book! August 15, 2024, 6:30pm Mountain Time. From Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers.
Beyond the Launch: Harnessing the Marketing Power of Pinterest ($)
Deb Gonzales of PinLit Marketing will unveil the transformative power of Pinterest in book marketing, highlighting its evergreen appeal across genres. August 17, 2024. 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Eastern Time. Hosted by SCBWI Indiana.
Weaving Facts Into Informational Fiction ($)
Join author Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia to learn artful and effective ways to seamlessly weave facts into informational fiction picture books. August 20, 2024, 7-8:30pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.
World-Building with Editor Emma D. Dryden ($)
All stories—fantasy or reality, picture book or novel—need to exist within a consistent context. This short course explores the physical, psychological, and emotional contexts for our stories and our characters, so that we may bring them to life for our readers. August 20 & 22, 2024, 7pm Eastern. From Highlights Foundation.
I’ve Got the Power: How to Use Character Agency to Make Your Story Satisfying ($)
Conflict is a vital component of any good children’s book, from picture books to young adult novels. But which characters actually make the decisions and take action to resolve that conflict? Join Rachael Stein for a riveting webinar on character agency. August 21, 2024, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern Time. From SCBWI MidAtlantic.
Creating a Striking Illustration Portfolio ($)
Whether you are new to children’s illustration or are hoping to tighten up your existing portfolio, Kayla Harren’s workshop will cover all the steps from creating compelling artwork, to organizing and presenting your work to potential clients. August 22, 2024, 6 – 8pm Central Time. Hybrid event, in person and on Zoom. From SCBWI Minnesota.
Everything You Need To Know About How To Make Young Readers Laugh ($)
Join author Donna Gephart to learn techniques and tips to create funny children’s books, from picture books through young adult novels. Critiques available at additional cost. August 27, 2024 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM Eastern Time. From SCBWI Eastern Pennsylvania.
Write Now! Virtual Retreat: Jump Back Into Your Writing ($)
Join Write Now! host Shari Becker and special guest Jill Braverman for this dedicated morning of writing, starting with a guided meditation. Aug 28, 2024, 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM Eastern Time. From Whale Rock Workshops.
Back to School Do’s and Don’t for Illustrators ($)
Executive Art Director Brian LaRossa from Scholastic will go over the dos and don’ts of the KidLit illustration Biz. August 29, 2024, 6 – 7pm Central Time. From SCBWI From SCBWI OK/AR.
How to Write a Rollicking Read-Aloud ($)
Join author Tammi Sauer for a Craft Webinar that’s all about creating fun, read-aloud picture books! August 28, 2024, 7 – 8:30pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.
Multi-Week Courses
Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two
Writing For the Educational Market ($)
Whether you’re an emerging writer, a seasoned educator, or someone looking to expand your reach in the educational market, this multi-week program will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the ed market landscape and effectively submit work to educational publishers. August 15 – September 19, 2024, with live sessions on Thursdays from 7 – 8:30pm Eastern. Full as of June 2024; sign up for waitlist. From the Highlights Foundation.
Write Your Picture Book! ($)
Picture books can be about anything and everything, from concepts to emotions to fantasy to non-fiction. Join author Kelly Bingham in this six-week intensive, where we’ll take that idea of yours and turn it into a manuscript! Six weeks beginning August 21, 2024. From Writers.com.
Successful School Visits ($)
Connecting with your readers is an important part of a storyteller’s life. Join George Jreije and guests to develop your virtual school visit and put your plan into action with a scheduled school visit! Three parts, see link for details. August 28 – October 25, 2024, with live events most Wednesdays from 7 – 8:30pm Eastern. From the Highlights Foundation.
Intensive Picture Book Workshop ($)
Work with a developmental editor in SIX 30-minute Zoom meetings as you write and revise your fiction or nonfiction picture book. Start anytime, complete within 10 weeks. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.
HAPPEN EVERY MONTH
For Both Illustrators and Writers
12 x 12 Picture Book Chat (free)
Join 12 x 12 Challenge Founder Julie Hedlund each month as she hosts picture book creators who read their books and discuss their path to publishing. Plus, they’ll answer your questions during a live Q&A session.
KidLitAMA (free)
KidLit Ask Me Anything interviews with kidlit creators, hosted on Bluesky Social by Debbie Ridpath Ohi. Check site for details on this month’s KidLitAMA!
#KidLitChat (free)
Happens every Tuesday night on Bluesky Social at 9pm Eastern / 6pm Pacific, co-hosted by @bonnieadamson.com and @gregpincus.bsky.social
LitMingles (free)
Every month, the Los Angeles Region SCBWI hosts multiple LitMingles, opportunities to discuss topics of interest to kidlit writers and illustrators. For this month’s LitMingles calendar, go to the link above and then click the “LitMingle Calendar” link at the top of the landing page. Hosted by SCBWI Los Angeles, open to everyone via Zoom.
PBParty New Draft Challenge (free)
Usually the third Thursday of each month, unless it conflicts with a pitch party, so check web site. All day, Eastern Time. Hosted by Mindy Alyse Weiss.
PB Workshop Chat Group (free)
In the PB Workshop chat server you can discuss writing, ask for tips and opinions, share your favorite books, discuss events, etc. Hosted on the Discord App by author Chris Nantais.
Storytime Sprint (free)
A monthly, short and sweet, online event where an author (usually debut) reads their new picture book. Participants then have 24 hours to SPRINT to leave an honest review or a library purchase request in order to be entered into a drawing for a prize from the author. Hosted by Ryann Jones and Andi Chitty.
For Illustrators
Color Collective (free)
Weekly Twitter challenge for illustrators where you make work based on a single color.
#kidlitart (free)
Every Thursday, 9pm Eastern Time (2am UTC), Twitter chat for children’s book illustrators & friends. Moderated by author/illustrators @RubinPingk and Charlene Chua (@charlenedraws).
Inktober 52 (free)
A weekly drawing challenge for the entire year: one prompt a week, 52 weeks in the year, 52 drawings. Hosted by illustrator Jake Parker.
Might Could Studiomates (free)
Tired of social media, but still want a space to share your art and be inspired? Meet artist friends and grow your art practice in this free, private online community. Founded by artist Christine Nishiyama.
SCBWI Draw This! Challenge (See note*)
Monthly challenge for illustrators with a new theme each month. Submit by the date listed on the webpage for next month’s gallery. *No application fee, but must be a dues-paying member of SCBWI.
For Writers
#FirstDraftFriday (free)
The first Friday of each month, 8am-8pm Eastern Time (1pm-1am UTC), write a new picture book first draft with inspiration from the day’s blog post featuring guest authors, then enter to win a free MS critique. #FirstDraftFriday. Hosted by children’s writer Hollie Wolverton.
Likes Publishing Picture Book Critique Group (free)
Live, free online meetings for serious writers, 8 times a month! You do not need to attend every meeting, but you are expected to be present and participate when you do. Register at link above. Hosted by Kelly M. Likes.
Making Picture Book Magic ($)
A 4-week course with short, daily lessons. Options for working with a small class or on your own. New enrollments begin the first of every month. Taught and hosted by children’s author Susanna Leonard Hill.
Penny’s Two Cents ($)
Picture book author Penny Parker Klostermann offers video chat sessions, small-group webinars, and packages that include feedback on picture book manuscripts. Contact Penny here to schedule.
Picture Book Power Hour (free)
PB Power Hour is “a Quick Moving Exercise-Based Hour” for picture book writers at all stages. It is free to attend and occurs on the first Sunday of each month, except for July. Sign up here. Hosted by author Jamie Rodarte.
Picture Book Study Hall ($)
Marcie Colleen hosts this month-long online critique group for writers who have multiple picture book manuscripts to revise. New session starts each month.
WIFYR Book Club (free)
Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers hosts monthly zoom meetings with an author presenter and time for Q&A, to discuss everything from picture books through young adult. Pauses for summer months. Register at this link. Hosted by WIFYR.
South Asian Scribe Squad (free)
Nine agented writers of South Asian descent offer free weekly picture book critique opportunities on Twitter. The goal is to give back to the writing community that has helped all of us in our journey. The giveaways are open to all PB writers. Follow the South Asian Scribe Squad for opportunity alerts!
Months of a Year Banner Illustrations by Blue Ring Media, Shutterstock
WRITERS' RUMPUS 
So much going on with picture books!
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Thanks!
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