Picture Book Support

Do you write or illustrate picture books? Find support for your writing and illustrating through these online kidlit communities, challenges, courses, contests, and events.

Fee or free? Here’s a key:
(free) – no fee to enter or to participate
($) – fee to enter or to participate; fees vary
(*See note) – look for *explanation within the blurb

Year-round resources are listed first, followed by events and opportunities available each month. Click the name of a month to go directly to that month’s listings. Watch for more-detailed posts each month.

January February March April May June July August September October November December

Know a good resource or event that isn’t on this list? Is it intended for picture book writers or illustrators? Is it available online (not an in-person conference or event)? Please send a message through the Contact Form on the About Us page. Thanks.

UPDATE June 1, 2023: SCBWI released their new website on May 31. It’s full of improvements, and it looks great! However, all links to the old SCBWI site have broken. I have updated links to national SCBWI awards and virtual events. The new website does not yet provide national access to Regional virtual events, so those links remain broken.

Available all year:

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.

At Home Author ($) (free)
The At-Home author team offers self-paced courses and customized coaching for traditional and self-published children’s book authors. Check out their free writing and publishing advice on their blog and YouTube channel.

Children’s Book Academy ($)
On-demand self-paced courses from industry professionals on a variety of topics. CBA also offers scheduled courses with faculty support; see monthly listings. Hosted by Mira Reisburg.

Children’s Book Insider ($)
Monthly newsletter, online resources & courses, Writers’ Secret Sauce coaching, and more. Sign up for newsletters here, and get a free ebook: The Ultimate Children’s Writing Cheat Sheet.

Color Collective (free)
Weekly Twitter challenge for illustrators where you make work based on a single color.

The Complete Picture Book Submissions System ($)
Takes you through each and every step of the submission process. No more fear. No more guesswork. Online course created by children’s authors Emma Walton Hamilton and Julie Hedlund.

FireButtChallenge (free) (#FiBuCha)
About once a month, without warning, a #FiBuCha notice goes out on Twitter. You have 24 hours to write a new PB draft or revise an existing one. Grab a writing partner to keep yourselves accountable. Hosted by children’s authors Michal Babay and Katie Frawley.

#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.

Highlights Foundation ($)
Offers in-person, online, and online on-demand workshops throughout the year for children’s writers and illustrators of all experience levels.

Institute of Children’s Literature ($)
Offers multipart course Writing for Children and Teens, with one-on-one mentorship by an industry professional; The Writers’ Block, an online community with many benefits including monthly critiques.

KidLit 411 (free)
Comprehensive online resource for children’s writers and illustrators, with associated Facebook group. KidLit411 has their own list of Writing Challenges here and Challenges for Illustrators here. Founded and maintained by Elaine Kiely Kearns and Silvia Liu.

#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).

KidLitHive ($)
Helping creators develop their craft and knowledge of the publishing industry via high quality, low-cost events in the form of webinars, workshops, and multi-week courses led by established authors, illustrators, agents, editors and more. New January 2023 from Justin Colón.

LitMingles (free)
Every month (except in summer), 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.

The Loft ($)
Minnesota-based writing community for writers of all genres, including children’s. Check site for online versus in-person courses. Scholarships available.

Lyrical Language Lab / Peek & Critique (free)
YouTube channel available all year long, providing free critiques and lessons to kidlit writers every Monday. Hosted by children’s poet and author Renee LaTulippe.

Lyrical Language Lab Courses (*See note)
This online course teaches children’s writers the poetic techniques. Subscribe to mailing list for next availability. *Link lands on a page with links to five free lyrical language lessons, plus info about 10-week paid course. Hosted by children’s poet and author Renee LaTulippe.

Make Your Marks & Splashes! ($)
Self-paced online course on how to be a children’s book illustrator, hosted by children’s author/illustrator Mark Mitchell.

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.

Master Course on Picture Book Writing and Editing ($)
An intensive self-guided workshop on the eight Core Principles of picture book writing and editing. Taught and hosted by children’s author Karla Arenas Valenti.

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.

Monthly Twitter Writing Challenge (free)
Participants agree to aim for 500 words or 1 hour of editing each day for a month. Five hundred words? That’s a whole picture book. Founded by author Kristy Acevedo.

Naps and Notebooks Masterclasses ($)
It’s not easy to make space for creative work when you’re raising young kids. These on-demand writing masterclasses are designed to make the moments you have with your notebook count. From children’s author and writing coach Heidi Fiedler.

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 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. Sign up here. Hosted by author Jamie Rodarte.

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.

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 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.

Picture Book University (free)
Series of lessons by picture book author Pam Calvert, on her blog.

Rate Your Story ($)
Year-round program with registration in November, December, and January. Manuscript critiques from professionals in the field, weekly mentor text talks, among other benefits. Nonmembers may submit for free critiques on open submission days, purchase a Speed Pass for a single critique, and participate in the fee-based annual contest.

SCBWI ($)
Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. International organization with a strong online presence, including challenges, webinars hosted by regional chapters but open to all, and active discussion boards on all topics of interest to children’s writers and illustrators.

SCBWI Regional Webinars ($)
Low-cost webinars hosted by SCBWI regional chapters, available everywhere. List continually updated, with upcoming webinars at top.

SCBWI Draw This! Challenge (See note*)
Monthly challenge for illustrators with a new theme each month. Submit by the date listed on the website page for next month’s gallery. *No application fee, but must be a dues-paying member of SCBWI.

SCBWI: YouTube Channel, The Vault (free)
SCBWI has over forty years of video archives featuring speakers at their annual conference–authors, illustrators, editors, agents, and publishers, now available on the YouTube channel, The Vault.

Society of Visual Storytelling ($)
Online courses for illustrators. Hosted by illustrators Will Terry, Lee White, and Jake Parker.

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!

Storyteller Academy ($)
Online, on-demand courses taught by industry professionals. Monthly or annual fee includes access to all Signature Course Library courses, live workshops, and more. Hosted by writer/illustrator Arree Chung.

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.

SubSix (free)
Children’s Book Creatives Support Group. Facebook group of children’s writers and illustrators working toward submission goals.

Whale Rock Writing Workshops ($)
Whale Rock Workshops is a community of kidlit authors (aspiring and published) that facilitates writing through workshops, retreats, and online resources. Hosts online events throughout the year.

Write and Revise Poetry for Rhyming Picture Books ($)
Self-paced course teaching the rules of rhyme schemes, meter, scansion, and how it all works in a picture book. Learn about rhyme crimes, types of problems to look out for, and how to fix them. From kidlit editor Lou Piccolo.

The Writing Barn (free and $)
Texas-based writing community offering low-cost webinars, free virtual book launches and literary events, one-session and 6-session online classes.

Writing Blueprints ($)
On-demand webinars and resources. Each Writing Blueprint takes a particular genre or category of book and breaks the process of writing and revising it into tiny steps. Each step then features a video with an expert instructor describing this piece of the writing puzzle and giving instructions about using the fillable PDF form for that step. From Children’s Book Insider.

The Writers’ Loft (free and $)
Massachusetts-based writing community offering online events available to anyone with an internet connection.

Writers.com ($)
Offers online courses for writers in all genres, including children’s.

Month by Month Listings

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

12×12 Picture Book Challenge ($)
Write 12 picture books in 12 months. Annual membership includes critique opportunities, monthly live webinars, and the support of the entire 12×12 community. Register in January and February for a full-year membership. Hosted by children’s author Julie Hedlund.

NFFest Registration for February event usually happens in January. (see February listing)

Storystorm (free)
Come up with 30 story ideas in 31 days. Inspirational guest posts. Raffle of prizes for those who succeed. Registration begins in December; see this page for general information. Hosted by children’s author Tara Lazar.

Kids’ Choice KidLit Writing Contest (free)

Write a story for PB, MG, or YA readers (200 words or less) and it will be judged by KIDS! Rules and info will be posted January 4, 2023, entries may be submitted 1/26 – 1/28. Hosted by author Kailei Pew.

How to Make Children’s Books – Challenge Week (free)
Bring your picture book story to life in 2023! Learn how to write, illustrate, and publish children’s books. January 9 – 13, 2023, 5 – 6pm Pacific Time. Hosted by Storyteller Academy.

Scholarship Celebration and Information Session (free)
The Highlights Foundation team will gather to celebrate and launch the 2023 Scholarship application season. Attend to learn more about available scholarships and how to apply. January 31, 2023, 8pm Eastern time.

New England SCBWI Windows & Mirrors Scholarship (free to apply)
The NESCBWI Windows & Mirrors Scholarships were created to boost marginalized writers and illustrators from historically underrepresented groups in children’s literature. The applicants themselves must identify in one of the listed categories (see link for list). Submission deadline usually January 31, check site for more info.

Rate Your Story ($)
Manuscript critiques from professionals in the field, among other benefits. Sometimes holds open submission days with free critiques for nonmembers. SpeedPass critiques are available. Also watch the site for events and free critique opportunities.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

It Takes Two – Co-Authoring Kidlit ($)
Join Nancy Churnin for this craft webinar on co-writing. When is it the right time to co-author a book? What are the factors that make this the best and most satisfying choice — and what are the concerns? January 14, 2023, 10am – 11:30 am Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Mining the Heart: How to Emotionally Connect with Readers ($)
Author Kaitlyn Wells breaks Heart, that once unteachable writing skill, into digestible parts in this interactive session. January 15, 2023, 2 – 5pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Aesop Writers (free)
A virtual writing workshop for un-published fiction and non-fiction picture book creators. As an expression of service to others–the 3rd virtual workshop is January 16, 2023, 12 noon Central Time. Hosted by author Alice Faye Duncan.

Non-Traditional Picture Book Structure ($)
Join children’s book author Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen and literary agent Rachel Orr to celebrate alternative approaches to picture book structures. A two-night mini course. January 23 & 25, 2023, 7 – 8:15pm each night. From The Highlights Foundation.

Winter Writing Wonder Picture Book Writing Workshops ($)
Ditch the winter blues and dig into picture books. Come to one or to all six workshops with Charlesbridge editor Karen Boss. For both fiction and non-fiction picture book writers. Hosted by The Writers’ Loft of Hudson, MA.

Characters Count. Pull out your work(s)-in-progress and spend time getting to know your characters in ways you might not have thought possible. January 11, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.
Pacing/Tension for the Win. Learn more about the importance of pacing and tension in picture books. January 19, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.
Four Keys to Dialogue. Come learn more about how dialogue works in a picture book. January 24, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.
See February webinar and conference listings for three more workshops.

ADD ON: Karen Boss critique! (Limited spots) You must be enrolled in at least one workshop. Karen will let you know how to submit your picture book and she will return it by APRIL 15th.

Read Like a Writer ($)
Writers fill their wells with stories: stories from the everyday happenings around them, and stories from fellow writers. Author Eric Bell asks, “Do you read like a writer?” January 26, 2023, 8:15pm Eastern Time. From Highlights Foundation.

Writing Picture Books Like A Playwright ($)
Have you ever thought of a picture book as being like a little stage play for kids? Author Meeg Pincus does! Join Meeg explains how you can use this craft approach in your own writing. January 28, 2023, 11-12:30 Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Write Your Children’s Book! ($)
In this eight-week long personalized workshop, you’ll draft (or revise, or finish up) your work-in-progress for a children’s book (PB, MG, or YA). With author/illustrator Kelly Bingham. Eight weeks starting January 4, 2023.

The Ultimate Craft and Business of Writing and Illustrating Children’s Picture Books Course ($)
Everything you need to write, illustrate, and publish wonderful children’s picture books, taught by a fantastic dream team! January 9 – February 13, 2023. See links for full details. From Children’s Book Academy.

Diving Into Picture Books: Format, Structure, and Practice ($)
Join author Nikki Shannon Smith to kickstart your picture book project with a combination of live lectures, exercises, Q&A, and critiques. January 14 – 21, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

Perfecting the Picture Book II ($)
Perfecting the picture book is not an easy task; let author Carmen Oliver be your guide in this online workshop. Six Wednesdays starting January 18, 2023, 7pm – 9pm Central. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

A Place at the Desk: Writing Fiction for Children ($)
Writing for children is a place with a wide spectrum, from picture books to middle grade to young adult. Come to this session to explore it all with instructor and author Lisa M. Bolt Simons. Six Tuesdays, January 24 – April 11, 2023, 6pm – 8pm Central Time. Hosted by The Loft.

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. January 1 – February 28, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

February

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

12×12 ($): Register by end of month for 2023. See January listing.

NonFiction Fest (free) (@NFFest)
NF Fest turns February into a crash course in writing nonfiction for children. Read at least 20 of the posts and complete 20 of the suggested activities. Prizes will be awarded in a random drawing of those completing the challenge. Hosted by the NonFiction Chicks: Lisa Amstutz, Stephanie Bearce, Nancy Churnin, Susie Kralovansky, Linda Skeers, and Peggy Thomas.

Valentiny Writing Contest (free)
Write a Valentines’ story no longer than 214 words, appropriate for ages 12 and under, including a character with a specified emotion (changes each year). Happens the second week of February. Check Susanna’s blog for this year’s announcement. Hosted by children’s author Susanna Leonard Hill.

Fractured Fairy Tale Short Story Contest ($)
Ready to reimagine your favorite fairy tale in 1000 words or less? This contest is for you! Coming from Institute of Children’s Literature, Deadline April 15, 2023.

#PBPitch (free)
A Twitter pitch party exclusively for picture books, Tuesday February 16, 2023, 8am – 8pm Eastern Time. Check website for full details, hashtags, and rules. Founded and run by Debra Kempf Shumaker, PJ McIlvaine, Mette Engell, and Mandy Yates.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

Journey Through Acquisitions: Editor Panel ($)
Listen in as five acquiring editors explain the acquisitions process. February 2, 2023, 7 – 8:30pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

Get Inspired: Small Books, Big Ideas! ($)
Looking for inspiration for your first picture book? Want to explore big ideas? Not sure how to weave messages into your craft? Join author Abdullahi Janno for this beginner-level class to find answers to these questions. February 4, 2023, 9 a.m. – Noon Central Time. Hosted by The Loft.

Winter Writing Wonder Picture Book Writing Workshops ($)
Ditch the winter blues and dig into picture books. Come to one or to all workshops with Charlesbridge editor Karen Boss. For both fiction and non-fiction picture book writers. Hosted by The Writers’ Loft of Hudson, MA.

Revision Is Hard. Use this workshop to jumpstart revising a project you’ve been struggling with or one fresh off your pen! February 8, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.
Back Matter Matters. Both fiction and nonfiction picture books benefit from strong back matter. How much is the right amount? February 16, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.
Unique Ideas Stand Out. How can you make your idea stand out in a sea of submissions and in an ocean of published books on the shelf? February 21, 2023, 6:30 – 8pm Eastern Time.

ADD ON: Karen Boss critique! (Limited spots) You must be enrolled in at least one workshop. Karen will let you know how to submit your picture book and she will return it by APRIL 15th.

Make Your Story Unputdownable: Secrets of Creating Suspense in Kid Lit ($)
Struggling to build suspense in your story? Join author Bruce Hale and take a deep dive into all the tips and tricks that make it impossible for a reader to put your book down! February 11, 2023, 2-5 PM Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Hack Your Brain Into Writing ($)
sometimes we writers are challenged and get stuck starting a project, continuing a project, and/or finishing a project. Join author Rajani LaRocca to learn some “brain hacks” to help you start writing. February 17, 2023, 7pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

SCBWI Virtual Conference ($)
The 2023 SCBWI New York Conference is virtual as well as in person! February 25, 2023. Early Bird registration until 1/25/2023. Hosted by SCBWI-National.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Editing Children’s Picture Books ($)
Intended for professional editors, but sure to be of use to writers who self-edit and critique. Instructor Lou Piccolo is a freelance developmental editor of fiction and creative nonfiction. February 1 – March 16, 2023. Hosted by Editorial Freelancers Association.

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. February 1 – March 31, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Writing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Picture Books ($)
Picture books featuring SEL concepts are in demand by editors, sought out by educators, and loved by children. Author Lisa Katzenberger will help you learn how to weave SEL concepts into your picture book manuscripts. Six Tuesdays, February 7 – March 21, 2023, 6:00 – 8:00 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Getting to Know Your Character ($)
Use this course to deepen your understanding of your characters and make decisions about point of view, plot, pacing and more. February 15 – March 8, 2023, see link for details. From Highlights Foundation.

The Crash Course in Children’s Book Publishing ($)
At the end of this 10-week course, you will understand how the children’s book publishing industry works, including submitting, publishing, marketing a book for children, teens, or young adults, and beginning ideas about craft and critique. February 28, 2023 – May 2, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

March

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

#50PreciousWords Writing Challenge (free)
Write a story appropriate for kids ages 12 or under, using only 50 words. Early March each year, timed to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Awesome prizes! Begins March 3, 2023. Hosted by author Vivian Kirkfield.

March On With Mentor Texts! (free)
The successor to ReFoReMo: improve your writing by completing a challenge to read mentor texts throughout the month of March. March 1 – 31, 2023. Hosted by the Rate Your Story Blog.

PBParty Annual Contest (free)
The annual PBParty contest is for unagented writers and author/illustrators with finished and polished picture book manuscripts. You submit an entry, contest coordinators pick a variety of genres and forward the entries to participating agents/editors to read and hopefully request. Submissions happen March 1, 2023, check link for details. Hosted by author Mindy Alyse Weiss.

Fractured Fairy Tale Short Story Contest ($)
Ready to reimagine your favorite fairy tale in 1000 words or less? This contest is for you! From Institute of Children’s Literature, submissions open until April 15, 2023.

SCBWI Don Freeman Grants (See note*)
Submissions open March 1 – March 31, 2023. Annual awards given to illustrators of children’s books in support of a work in progress that is not already under contract. *No application fee, but applicant must be a member of SCBWI, which requires dues.

SCBWI Karen and Philip Cushman Late Bloomer Grant (See note*)
Submissions open March 1 – March 31, 2023. Recognizes a promising manuscript by a writer over the age of 50 who has never been published. Submit in conjunction with the Work-in-Progress Awards (see below). *No application fee, but applicant must be a member of SCBWI, which requires dues.

SCBWI Work-in-Progress Awards (See note*)
Submissions open March 1 – March 31, 2023. Annual awards given to writers of children’s books in support of a work in progress that is not already under contract, including picture books. *No application fee, but applicant must be a member of SCBWI, which requires dues.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

The Art of Nonfiction: Writing Outside the Box ($)
Join acclaimed nonfiction author Carole Boston Weatherford to discover how the perfect premise and the elements of voice and point of view can suggest a structure that elevates nonfiction to art. March 4, 2023, 11:00am-12:30pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Learn How to Build Character Cultural Literacy ($)
Author Karen Krossing will engage students in a discussion of cultural elements in selected picture books and novels, and she will introduce you to tools and prompts to help you thoughtfully include secondary characters with a diversity of backgrounds and cultures. Sunday, March 5, 2023, 4:00 PM EST From Whale Rock Workshops.

DISSECTING THE FROG: Oh No, We’re Going to Try to Analyze Humor ($)
What is humor? How does it even work? Adam Rex shares how he thinks—and overthinks—about humor, and the elements that undergird a funny picture book. March 16, 2023, 7 – 8:30pm. From KidLit Hive.

Emotions In Nonfiction Picture Books ($)
Join children’s book author Heidi E.Y. Stemple and editor Eileen Robinson for this two-night mini-course to explore the many ways to infuse emotion into your nonfiction picture book. March 14 and 16, 2023, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.

Checking the Vitals: Getting Your PB Manuscript in Shape ($)
At this craft webinar, author Marzieh Abbas will discuss strategies to tick items off your revision checklist and give yourself the best shot at querying and ultimately publishing success. Saturday March 18, 2023, 11am – 12:30pm Central Time. From the Writing Barn.

The Picture Book Idea (*See note)
Join picture book author and New York Times Bestselling illustrator Claudia Rueda in this Digital Workshop where you’ll explore the most important elements of visual writing, and learn how to plan a picture book by using a storyboard. March 23, 2023, 4:00 pm Eastern Time / 1:00 pm Pacific Time. *Free for dues-paying members of SCBWI.

Breaking Down the P&L Statement ($)
An editor’s interested in your book and is running a P&L? Hooray! Wait! What does that mean? Editor Alison Weiss explains this important piece of the decision whether to offer you a contract. March 23, 2023, 7pm Eastern. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

Using Tone and Voice to Tackle Hard Topics ($)
Join author Kathryn Erskine to examine approaches to writing about grief, humor, bullying, friendship, religion, and death. March 23, 2023, 7:30pm EST. From Whale Rock Workshops.

Writing for the Education Market ($)
In this miniclass, author and educator, Shannon Anderson, will share what the education market is and how to get work-for-hire assignments. From Storyteller Academy.

WHEN I WAS A LEOPARD: From the Unconscious to the Conscious in the Construction of Characters in Kid’s Lit with author Mónica Rodríguez (free)
This webinar will be given in Spanish. A partir de la reflexión sobre su proceso creativo de escritura, la autora intentará extraer algunos de los recursos necesarios para la construcción de personajes en LIJ, haciendo hincapié en la importancia de lo inconsciente en todo el proceso. March 30, 2023, 4:00 pm Eastern Time / 1:00 pm Pacific Time. From SCBWI National.

Color of Children’s Literature Conference ($)
Join us online for an incredible weekend with top editors, agents, authors & illustrators in the children’s/YA publishing world. Our spring conference is an excellent opportunity for BIPOC writers & illustrators to learn, get inspired and network with others in the industry. Please note that this conference is EXCLUSIVELY for Black, Indigenous and POC writers and illustrators. March 31 – April 2, 2023. Link goes to “save the date” page, check website for more details. Hosted by Kweli Journal.

WriteOnCon ($)
Online conference for kidlit writers and illustrators for all levels (PB, MG, YA). Link goes to 2022 info, check website for 2023 details.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Picture Book Biographies I: Style and Substance ($)
Join acclaimed picture book biography author Rob Sanders for this six-week online class. Attendees will dig deep into the style and substance of today’s creative non-fiction picture book biographies. Six Mondays, March 6 – April 10, 2023, 7:00 – 9:00 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Not Your Typical Biography: How to Write Narratively About the Natural World (Even Rocks!) ($)
How do you take your mounds of research and shape them into a story that moves readers? This fast-paced class with acclaimed nonfiction author Candace Fleming will show you how. Three Wednesdays: March 8 – March 22, 2023, 7:00 – 9:00 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Perfecting the Picture Book I ($)
Picture Book I is all about perfecting the basic craft and structural elements needed to write successful picture books ready for sale. Join Author Jyoti Gopal to learn basic format elements, how to work with illustrations, word count, picture book tips and tricks, and more. Six Thursdays, March 16 – April 20, 2023, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

Children’s Writing for Beginners ($)
This class will explore the exciting world of writing for children and young adults through a mix of writing activities and discussion. Instructor: author Lisa Bullard. Six Thursdays: March 16 – April 20, 2023, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Central Time. Hosted by The Loft.

Write. Submit. Support. ($)
For Picture Book/Chapter Book Writers, a 6-month course offering structure and support not only to our writing lives but also to the roller coaster ride of submissions. March 19 – August 20, 2023, 2 – 5 pm Central Time. Join author Ann Marie Stephens for this 6-month exploration of your literary life! Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Write (& Illustrate). Submit. Support. for Author/Illustrators ($)
A 6-month course offering structure and support not only to our writing and illustrating lives but also to the roller coaster ride of submissions. Join author and illustrator Katy Tanis for a six-month exploration of your literary and artistic life. Six monthly meetings, March 26 – August 27, 2023, 2 – 5 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

The Podcasting Starter Kit ($)
Join Matthew Winner for this 6-session class designed to help podcasters and storytellers of all experience levels take a show from idea through production. Six Tuesdays, March 28 – May 2, 2023, 7 – 9pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

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. March 1 – April 30, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

Spring Fling Writing Contest (free)
Challenge for writers, find a springtime-themed gif and write 150 words. Enter April 1 – 3, 2023. Hosted by Ciara O’Neal and Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez. Check out Fall Writing Frenzy, too.

Madness! Poetry (free)
The Madness! Poetry tournament pits 64 writers (known as “authletes”) against each other over 6 rounds of head-to-head poetry matches, which are voted on by a community of authletes and kids! The last authlete standing wins! Register as an Authlete by April 2, 2023 1am, or register to vote. Madness happens April 9 – May 2, 2023. Created and maintained by Ed DeCaria.

Annual Spring Writing Contest ($)
Rate Your Story’s Annual Spring Writing Contest! Usually happens in April, check link for more info. Hosted by Rate Your Story.

PB Rising Stars Mentorship (fee or free unknown)
PB Rising Stars pairs knowledgeable picture book creators with the next generation of children’s book authors and illustrators for an immersive, custom-made mentorship experience. Meet the Mentors Panel and Q&A April 11, 2023, 8 – 10pm Eastern Time. Applications April 17 – April 27, 2023. Hosted by writers Kailei Pew and Ebony Lynne Mudd.

#WriteMentor Summer Programme (free)
UK-based program pairing professionals in children’s literature with pre-agented writers for online summer mentorship. Open to anyone who writes in English. Applications for Mentees open April 12 – 14, 2023, check link for details.

AAAS/Subaru Prize for Excellence in Science Books
The AAAS/Subaru Book Prize aims to encourage the reading, writing, and publishing of quality science books for children. Four categories for published books. Nominations for 2024 are open from April 17 – July 10, 2023 for books published between July 1, 2022 and July 31, 2023.

The Ann Whitford Paul—Writer’s Digest Manuscript Award (See note*)
Submissions window open April 1 – April 30, 2023. Annual monetary award given for a Most Promising Picture Book manuscript. *No application fee, but must be a dues-paying member of SCBWI.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

PBSummit Roundtables (free)
Throughout April, 2023, the Picture Book Summit team shares three roundtable discussions on current events in children’s publishing. The link above leads to a recording of the Book Bans roundtable; join the newsletter list to be notified of two additional roundtables.

Where Do Ideas Come From? (*see note)
From non-fiction to fiction, how do you develop a picture book idea? Does it start with the pictures or the words? This workshop is for both writers and illustrators. With Author/Illustrator Joyce Hesselberth. April 13, 2023, 4:00 pm Eastern Time / 1:00 pm Pacific Time. *Free for dues-paying members of SCBWI.

Finding Your Visual Voice: A Special Two-Hour Intensive for Illustrators (free)
Illustrator London Ladd will share tools to help children’s book creators move beyond the search for style into the quest of finding their unique visual voice. April 20, 2023, 4:00 pm Eastern Time / 1:00 pm Pacific Time. From SCBWI National.

Hooks, Queries and Proposals: Angling to Land a Contract ($)
Everything you need to know about queries and proposals, taught by Writing Mentor Kim Peterson. April 22, 2023, 9am – 5pm Eastern. A Write2Ignite Master Class.

Canva for Authors ($)
Join author Susan Johnston Taylor for a deep dive into the world of Canva. Canva is a powerful tool that anyone can use to create book trailers, Instagram reels, slide presentations, social media headers, and other graphics. April 22, 2023, 2 – 5pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

The Magic of the In-Between ($)
Join award-winning author Jessixa Bagley for a Craft Webinar that’s all about the magical element of subtext! April 29, 2023, 11am-12:30pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

Writing and Publishing Books About Food and Farming in Kid Lit ($)
The Kid Lit world is HUNGRY (pun intended) for stories that feature where their food comes from. In this session you’ll learn what makes a great story about food and farming with Lisl H. Detlefsen and Julia Recko! April 29, 2023, 2 – 5pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)

Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

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. April 1 – May 31, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

The Heart and Humor of Amy Krouse Rosenthal: Using AKR’s Body of Work to Enhance Our Own ($)
In this 6-session class, award-winning children’s author Marcie Colleen (Love, Triangle and Penguinaut!) guides writers through a deep dive into the late Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s body of work. Six Mondays, April 17 – May 22, 2023. From The Writing Barn.

May

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

Mermay Contest (free)
A month-long mermaid-themed illustration and animation challenge, with a different optional prompt for every day of the month. Post artwork on Instagram with challenge hashtags to be eligible for some serious prizes. May 1 – 31, 2023. Hosted by illustrator Tom Bancroft.

#KidLitVibes Writing Contest for Picture Book Authors (free)
Starting May 5, 2023, step right up to the WHEEL OF FEELS! What word did you spin? Your goal is to write a story that captures that vibe. See website for complete details and prizes; ask for clarifications on Twitter. Enter between May 12 – 14, 2023. Hosted by the Frenzy Friends.

#KidLitVibes Writing Contest for Picture Book Authors (free)
Step right up to the WHEEL OF FEELS! What word did you spin? Your goal is to write a story that captures that vibe. May 12 – May 14, 2023; see website for rules, exact time of submission window, lists of prizes, and more! Hosted by the Frenzy Friends.

Children’s Literature Mentorship ($)
Noted children’s authors, editors, and master instructors Lisa Papademetriou, Gary Schmidt, Kathryn Erskine, and Shelley Tanaka team up for this unique online mentorship program designed for picture book, middle grade, and young adult authors. General Registration opens May 15, 2023 for Fall semester. From Whale Rock Workshops.

How to Make Children’s Books – Challenge Week (free)
Bring your picture book story to life in 2023! Learn how to write, illustrate, and publish children’s books. May 22 – 26, 2023, 10 – 11am Pacific Time daily. Hosted by Storyteller Academy.

Nonfiction Ninjas Writing Contest (free)
The Nonfiction Ninjas are excited to announce our first-ever Nonfiction Writing Contest! The inaugural 2023 contest will be for nonfiction picture books. Prizes include mentorships and agent access. Show us what you’ve got! Read info at link above for details. Submission window is July 15 – August 1, 2023.

New Voices Award (free)
Given annually by children’s book publisher Lee & Low for a children’s picture book manuscript by a writer of color or Native/Indigenous writer. Winners receives a $2,000 cash prize and a first time publishing contract with Lee & Low Books. Check link for updates. Submissions were open May to August in 2022; no updated info as of late April, 2023.

Key Colors Competition (*see note)
Clavis Publishing, New York launches Key Colors, the two-yearly national contest for illustrators of unpublished picture books. Winner receives $8000 and the winning work will be published by Clavis Publishing. Unclear from site if contest is happening in 2023, but check link. Open to residents of the United States and Canada only. *No entry fee listed.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

Getting Strategic About Social Media For Illustrators ($)
Join webcomic team Lisa Burdige and John Hazard to learn how illustrators can get the most out of their posts without cannibalizing time to do their art! May 1 and 3, 2023, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern. From the Highlights Foundation.

Rhyming Picture Books: A Two-Night Mini ($)
Take a look at stories that sing with rhythm and rhyme, and learn how to accomplish the structure and skills needed in your own work with Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen and Anne Marie Pace. May 2 and May 4, 2023, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern. From The Highlights Foundation.

Foreign Rights 101 with Allison Hellegers ($)
Allison will walk through the process or selling rights from both the author and the rights seller point-of-views, from contracts and co-agents to influencers and book fairs. May 4, 2023 7pm. From KidLit Hive.

Rock Your Research & Proposals! A Two-Night Mini ($)
Join authors Stephanie Gibeault, Jolene Gutiérrez, and Anita Yasuda as they share the tools and strategies writers need to dig into research with confidence. May 8 and May 10, 2023, 7-8:15 pm Eastern. From The Highlights Foundation.

Turn Up the Volume on Quiet Picture Books: A Two-Night Mini ($)
Join award-winning author Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow to learn ways to embrace your “quiet” book, turning up the volume for your audiences. May 16 and May 18, 2023, 7-8:15 pm Eastern. From The Highlights Foundation.

So You Want To Be a Picture Book Writer ($)
Join Laurie Wallmark for a Craft Webinar that’s all about bringing your Picture Book ideas to life! May 20, 2023, 11 – 12:30pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Write (& Illustrate). Submit. Support. for Author/Illustrators ($)
Join Katy Tanis for a six-month exploration of your literary and artistic life via Write (& Illustrate). Submit. Support. for Author/Illustrators. Meets monthly on Sundays from May through October, 2023, 2 – 5 pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

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. May 1 – June 30, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Devouring the Elephant: Breaking Down the Enormous Task of Creating a Picture Book Dummy Into Digestible Bites ($)
Thinking about creating a picture book dummy can be daunting. Author/Illustrator Brian Lies takes students through the process the way you do devour an elephant: one bite at a time. Four Wednesdays, May 3 – 24, 2023, 7 – 9pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

Mastering Great Graphic Novels ($)
Graphic novels are one of the fastest-growing segments in children’s book publishing and yes, picture books can use a graphic novel format! This 4-week interactive course offers step-by-step lessons, tools, industry experts, critiques, submission opportunities, and more. Four weeks beginning May 29, 2023. From Children’s Book Academy.

Picture Book Plotting A – Z ($)
Are you ready to do a deep, deep dive into picture book structure? This online course with Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen features pre-recorded and/or written assignments for each letter of the “Picture Book Alphabet,” plus weekly LIVE Zoom sessions for all of your course related questions. Thursdays and Fridays, May 5 – June 8, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

Inside the kidlit studio ($)
With Ame Dykman and Jenn Harney. May 16, 2023, 7 – 8:30pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

A Deep Dive into Picture Books ($)
Join author Phyllis Root for a deep dive into picture books. Draft six picture-book manuscripts and complete one picture book dummy. Six Tuesdays, May 16 – June 20, 2023, 7:30 – 8:30pm Eastern. Hosted by Whale Rock Workshops.

The Crash Course in Children’s Book Publishing: Illustrator’s Edition ($)
At the end of the course, you will understand how the children’s book publishing industry works for illustrators and author/illustrators, including ways to build your portfolio and engage with art-directors. May 31, 2023 – July 26, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

June

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

#KidLitPit (free)
Twitter pitching event for KidLit authors to pitch to agents and publishers. Thursday June 1, 2023, times based on location of participant. Guidelines here, Twitter here.

#QueerKidlit Mentorships (survey for 2024)
Queer Kitlit Mentorships needs input! The program will return in 2024, but WHEN should the mentorship be? In the past, it has been three months during the summer. Pre-published LGBTQ+ writers, illustrators, and writer/illustrators, please complete the questionnaire linked here by June 4, 2023 to share interest and schedule suggestions for 2024.

Children’s Literature Mentorship ($)
Noted children’s authors, editors, and master instructors Lisa Papademetriou, Gary Schmidt, Kathryn Erskine, and Shelley Tanaka team up for this unique online mentorship program designed for picture book, middle grade, and young adult authors. General Registration opened May 15, 2023 for Fall semester. From Whale Rock Workshops.

#PBPitch (free)
A Twitter pitch party exclusively for picture books! June 15th, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Check link for details.

Black Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest (free)
The contests’ mission is to elevate authentic, culturally relevant children’s stories written by and about Black people. Every entry is considered for publication and three cash prizes will be awarded. See link above for details. Submissions open June 19 – July 24, 2023, check link for details. Sponsored by Free Spirit Publishing and Strive Publishing.

#Pitchdis (free)
A Twitter pitch event for disabled authors. See hashtags, rules & guidelines here. June 22, 2023, 8am – 8pm Eastern Time. Moderated by Despina Karras.

Purrfect Page-Turner Award (PPTA) (free)
The Purrfect Page-Turner Award© (PPTA) will be given annually to an outstanding, cat-themed children’s book. The author and illustrator will each receive an award plaque, 25 book cover seals, and a cash prize of $500. Entries may be fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. Both picture books and chapter books are eligible, as are traditionally and self-published books. To be considered for the 2023 award, entries must have been published in 2022 and must be cat-specific: meaning, a cat must be the main character OR must be integral – not incidental – to the plot, conflict, theme, or subject matter of the book. Sponsored by Paws to Read Month and author Lee Wardlaw. For more information, please contact Ms. Lee Wardlaw [author [at] leewardlaw [dot] com, but follow standard email format]. Include PPTA in the subject line.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in sort of chronological order.

SCBWI Digital Workshops 9.0 (*See note)
Each webinar will take place at 4:00 pm Eastern / 1:00 pm Pacific Time. Video recordings will be posted to the SCBWI website 24 hours after each workshop concludes and will remain on site for one month. For more information and Zoom links, visit the SCBWI website at www.scbwi.org starting May 31st. *Free to dues-paying members of SCBWI.

Workshop # 1 – June 1, 2023
Disability Dispatch: Disabled Authors Speak Their Truths
With Keah Brown, Natalia Sylvester, and Jen Wilde. Moderated by Karol Ruth Silverstein.
Workshop #2 – June 8, 2023
Being a Beginner Author-Illustrator with Breanna Carzoo
Workshop #3 – June 15, 2023
First Pages and How to Make them Shine
With Kat Brzozowski. To submit your first page to be reviewed live, email it following instructions on the SCBWI Digital Schedule page between May 31 and June 9, 2023
Workshop #4 – June 22, 2023
Spanish Language Webinar (title and speaker forthcoming)
Workshop #5 – June 29, 2023
Writing Tough Topics with Kat Yeh

An Hour with Your Friend, Dan: Award-Winning Author/Illustrator Dan Santat (free)
Dan Santat shares stories of his books, work, process, and life, along with the secrets of how he has published 100+ books for young people. For kids, but of interest to kidlit creators. Livestreamed from Diamond Bar Library on June 3, 2023, 2 – 4pm Pacific Time. Hosted by LA County Library.

Children’s Book Changemakers Conference (free)
Hear from activist and author Ruby Bridges in addition to conversations with authors Henry Winkler, Jane Yolen, Ellen Hopkins, Tami Charles, Tara Michener, and more! June 8, 2023, 4pm – 5:30pm Pacific Time. Presented by the SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund.

Masterclass Series: Writing Nonfiction for Children ($)
Calling all Nonfiction Picture Book and Middle-Grade writers! Join bestselling author Sarah Albee in this virtual masterclass series teaching you the ins and outs of all things nonfiction. Take one workshop or take all, replays will be available! Hosted by The Writers’ Loft.

Ten Tips to Creating an Informational Book Editors Can’t Resist (June 14, 2023, 7-8:30 pm Eastern Time)
Make it Snappy! Strategies for Developing a Lively and Engaging Nonfiction Voice (June 21, 7-8:30 pm Eastern Time.)
NF Book Proposals: Why You Need One and How to Write One (June 28, 7-8:30 pm Eastern Time)
Image Research and Permissions: A Survival Guide (July 5, 7-8:30 pm Eastern Time)

Nature and Style: Balancing Artistic License and Scientific Representation in Kidlit ($)
Learn how to balance artistic license with scientific representation with Author Katy Tanis! June 4, 2023, 2 – 5pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

From Pencil or Paint To Pixel: For Beginning Illustrators ($)
Beginning illustrators can join children’s book author/illustrator Courtney Pippin-Mathur to talk about approaches to using different media (traditional and/or digital) in your illustrations, and special guest Aram Kim for ten tips about submitting work to an art director (tradition and/or digital). June 6 and 8, 2023, 8:30pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.

Rhythm and Truths: Writing Rhyming Nonfiction Picture Books ($)
Are you ready to add rhyme to your nonfiction work? Join author Debra Shumaker for a Craft Webinar that will help you learn the basics of both! June 10, 2023, 11am-12:30pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Picture Book Beginnings & Endings ($)
Bringing readers into your picture book story is just as important as the impact you leave them with at the end. Join picture book author Valerie Bolling to open the book on picture book beginnings and endings. Two Nights: June 12 and June 14, 2023, 7-8:15pm Eastern Time each night. From The Highlights Foundation.

Bringing a Business Focus to a Creative Career and Selling What You Write ($)
Learn the important aspects of managing a creative business career with author Ying Chang Compestine. June 17, 2023, 10am-12noon Pacific Time. Hosted by Writing Workshops.

Aesop Writers (free)
A FREE workshop for Un-Published Fiction and Non-Fiction Picture Book Creators. Learn 3 skills to paint pictures with words, 3 tools to help productivity, and 3 habits to inspire new ideas. June 19, 2023, noon, confirm time zone with host. Hosted by author Alice Faye Duncan.

Get Inspired: Small Books, Big Ideas! ($)
With author Abdullahi Janno. Looking for inspiration for your first picture book? Want to explore big ideas? Not sure about how to weave messages into your craft? Well, this class seeks to address these questions. June 24, 2023, 9am – Noon Central Time. Hosted by The Loft.

Kidlit 101 ($)
Join Victoria J. Coe & Cheryl Lawton Malone for this fast-paced course designed to highlight the entire kidlit writing process, from initial ideas to publication and beyond. No question is too random or silly. June 24, 2023, 2pm – 5pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

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. June 1 – July 31, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Writing The Rainbow: An Online Intensive For Picture Book Storytellers ($)
A 4-day online intensive with lectures, discussion, discovery, & read alouds designed to bring LGBTQIA+ creators and allies together to craft picture books with clear LGBTQIA+ themes. Friday June 2 through Monday June 5, 2023, times vary. From The Highlights Foundation.

Everything You Need to Know About Writing and Selling Children’s Books ($)
Explore the creative and exciting world of writing children’s books in this insightful seminar led by author Ying Chang Compestine. Four Sundays starting June 11, 2023, 12p – 2pm Pacific Time. From Writing Workshops.July

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

SCBWI Emerging Voices Award (free)
A grant to foster the emergence of diverse voices in children’s books. Applications open July 1 – July 30, 2023.

SCBWI Ezra Jack Keats Showcase Prize for Illustration
In honor of Ezra Jack Keats, the legendary author and illustrator of children’s books including The Snowy Day, Whistle for Willie, and Peter’s Chair, SCBWI will award one cash prize of $3,500 to a promising BIPOC illustrator. Submissions open July 1 – 31, 2023.

SCBWI Volemos Grant
Awarded to one manuscript submitted by a writer of Hispanic/Latinx/Ibero-American heritage. The winner will receive $500 along with a one-year SCBWI membership, registration to the summer conference, and a coaching session to further their creative career. Submissions open July 1 – 31, 2023.

Black Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest (free)
The contests’ mission is to elevate authentic, culturally relevant children’s stories written by and about Black people. Every entry is considered for publication and three cash prizes will be awarded. See link above for details. Submissions open June 19 – July 24, 2023, check link for details. Sponsored by Free Spirit Publishing and Strive Publishing.

#SunWriteFun
Non-fiction/Informational Picture Book Writing Contest, hosted by authors Jennifer Buchet & Karen Greenwald. Stretch your writing muscles & imagination as you craft a short story within the contest guidelines and enjoy the best summer beach party on the ‘net! Happened in August in 2022. See link for 2023 details.

Webinars & Conferences

Image Research and Permissions: A Survival Guide ($)
Part of the Writing Nonfiction for Children Masterclass series with Sarah Albee. Nonfiction writers are often responsible for researching, securing rights to, and paying for images. This will be a hands-on, nuts-and-bolts workshop to help participants learn what to do. July 5, 2023, 7-8:30 pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The Writers’ Loft.

Nonfiction Kidlit Confab ($)
Two days of digging deep into nonfiction kidlit, with distinguished faculty including authors, illustrators, agents, and acquiring editors. July 15 and July 16, 2023, two full days. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Picture Book Essentials ($)
Everyone loves picture books! But writing stories that sell means going beyond a fun idea. Join award-winning picture book author Darcy Pattison and author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski for this short course. July 18 and 20, 2023, 7 – 8 8:15pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.

Writing Immersive Worlds and Authentic Cultural Representation in Children’s Literature ($)
With author Payal Doshi. How does one create a setting in which the reader can escape into and become fully immersed? July 22, 2023, 9am – Noon Central Time. Hosted by The Loft.

Dump Trucks, Dresses and Dolls, Oh My! ($)
Join Lesléa Newman for a historical look at picture books that challenge gender stereotypes! July 23, 2023, 2 – 5 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Picture Book Palooza! (free)
Annual SLJ Picture Book Palooza, an all-day, free virtual celebration of authors and artists dedicated to the visual dance and extraordinary craft of picture books! July 27, 2023, 10am – 5pm Eastern Time. Hosted by School Library Journal (SLJ).

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Making the Jump: From Author to Illustrating ($)
Join Carter Higgins for this three-session class that’s all about making your way from writing picture books to illustration! Three Mondays: July 17, 24, and 31, 2023, 7 – 9pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Not Your Typical Biography: How to Write Narratively About the Natural World (Even Rocks!) ($)
How do you take your mounds of research and shape them into a story that moves readers? This fast-paced class with acclaimed nonfiction author Candace Fleming will show you how. Three Wednesdays: July 18 – August 1, 2023, 7:00 – 9:00 pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Picture Book Intensive ($)
Join Diane White to study mentor texts, complete exercises, and discuss how using specific can amplify and support the meaning and music of a picture book text. Six Wednesdays: July 19 – August 23, 2023, 7 – 9pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

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. July 1 – August 31, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Augu

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

AuGHOST (free)
#AuGHOST is an all-skills, all-inclusive, all-for-fun daily art event. For each day on August, draw or create something “ghosty” that’s inspired by that day’s prompt word and post it online with #AuGHOST. It’s fun and friendly! Created by @Sommerjam and @DavePietrandrea.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

SCBWI Annual Summer Conference ($)
Join SCBWI on Zoom for the annual Summer Conference, which is virtual for 2023! 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. August 4 – 6, 2023.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come.

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

An Introduction To Engaging Kids With Podcasts ($)
Thinking about starting a podcast for kids, but don’t know where to start? Join librarian, writer, and podcast innovator Matthew Winner to find the heart of your podcast for kids. August 6 – 13, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

Picture Book Biographies II: Creating a Standout ($)
Author Rob Sanders explores components of successful picture book biographies and discover how to transform a story into a picture book biography manuscript that stands out for all the right reasons. Six Mondays, August 7 – September 11, 2023, 7 – 9pm Central Time. From The Writing Barn.

From Idea & Sketch to Dummy & Submission ($)
If you are illustrating AND writing your own book, and wondering how to prepare your dummy for submission, this is the course for you. Six Tuesdays, August 15 – September 19, 2023, 7:30 – 9pm. From the Highlights Foundation.

Perfecting the Picture Book II ($)
Perfecting the picture book is not an easy task; let author Carmen Oliver be your guide in this online workshop. Six Wednesdays August 16 – September 20, 2023, 7pm – 9pm Central. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

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. August 1 – September 30, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

September

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

Smart Dummies (free)
Complete a picture book dummy in 30 days. September 1 – 30 each year. Join the Facebook group for notifications. Hosted by writer/illustrator Dani Duck.

SCBWI Narrative Art Award
An award for illustrators. The theme and specific assignment will change year to year, but the general goal will be to show sequence and narrative. The prize is an all-expense-paid trip to the SCBWI New York Winter Conference. Submissions open September 1 – 30, 2023.

Russell Freedman Award For Nonfiction For A Better World (free)
In honor of the late Russell Freedman, Newbery Award winner and one of the modern masters of narrative nonfiction, a prize to a traditionally published nonfiction book for children or young adults, released during this calendar year. Check link for 2023 details. From the SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund.

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. Applications are usually open in September for the following year.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

The KidLit Palooza ($)
A Kind But Kickass Kidlit Career Making Conference including information, interaction, tips, techniques, prizes, pitches, personal advice, handouts & re-usable worksheets. Usually happens in Fall, check link for details. From Children’s Book Academy.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

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. September 1 – October 31, 2023. Led by Anastasia Suen, author (and ghostwriter) of 400+ books for children, teens, and adults.

Editing Children’s Picture Books ($)
This course for editors is a comprehensive guide ensuring you can help a writer to produce a properly structured picture book manuscript with a forward-moving plot, essential obstacles, and memorable characters. Instructor: Lou Piccolo. September 20 – November 1, 2023. Hosted by Editorial Freelancers Association.

October

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

Fall Writing Frenzy (free)
Write 200 words inspired by one of the contest photos, and submit it during the window listed on the website. A badge for all participants, prizes for winners. Hosted by Lydia Lukidis and Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez.

ReVISIONweek (free)
Revise your PB manuscripts that you wrote for challenges earlier in the year! A week of support, inspiration, and revision magic. OH, and prizes! Always prizes! October 11 – 18, 2023. Hosted by children’s authors Lauren H. Kerstein, Joana Pastro, Katie Frawley, Lynne Marie, Shannon Stocker, and Michal BaBay.

From Scripts to Panels: An Introduction to Graphic Novels ($)
Join storytellers Jacqueline Barnes and Kayden Phoenix with special guest agent Janna Morishima to discover ways to bring your idea for a graphic novel to the page. October 12, 16, and 19, 2023, 7:30-9:30pm Eastern. Hosted by The Highlights Foundation.

#PBPitch (free)
A Twitter pitch party exclusively for picture books! Check website for October date, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Check link for details.

#DVPit and #DVart (free)
Twitter pitch parties for historically underrepresented voices in children’s literature. Children’s & YA Fiction/Nonfiction (#DVpit). Returning October, 2023 on Discord platform.

#SeasonsOfKidLit’s First Annual Trick-or-Treat Event! (free)
A brand-new month-long fall-themed event filled with book recommendations and interviews with authors, illustrators, publishers, and literary agents, plus fun Tricks and tons of Treats for kitlit creators! Lots more information at the link above. Happened in October, 2022, see link for 2023 information. From #SeasonsOfKidLit, Heather Macht, Lynne Marie, and Rate Your Story.

Halloweensie Contest (free)
Write a 100-word Halloween story appropriate for ages 12 and under, following prompt for the current year. Prize for the winner. Search Susanna’s blog to find this year’s info. Hosted by children’s author Susanna Leonard Hill.

Inktober (free)
Challenge to draw 31 illustrations in ink, in 31 days. Hosted by illustrator Jake Parker.

Picture Book Critique Fest #PBCritiqueFest (free)
A MASSIVE picture book critique giveaway, featuring top authors, illustrators, and literary agents on the kidlit scene. Happened in October, 2022, check site for 2023 details. Hosted by Brian Gehrlein, creator of Picture Book Spotlight.

SCBWI Narrative Art Award (*See note)
Each year, a rotating panel of judges challenges illustrators to tell a story in three sequential images. The winner will receive free tuition to the Virtual SCBWI Winter Conference. Submissions usually open in September. *Free for dues-paying members of SCBWI.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

Puzzling Out Your Picture Book ($)
Creating a perfect picture book is like solving a puzzle. Author Pat Zietlow Miller will share tips and techniques to increase your chances of solving the puzzle of your story. October 5, 2023, 7 – 8:30pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

Picture Book Summit ($)
Full-day writing conference live-streamed to your computer. Usually the first or second Saturday in October. Founded and hosted by Katie Davis of Writers’ Block (formerly of ICL), Julie Hedlund of 12 x 12, Emma Walton Hamilton of Just Write Children’s Books, and Founders Emeritus Jon Bard and Laura Backes of Children’s Book Insider.

Fracturing Fairy Tales (and putting them back together again) ($)
Author Josh Funk will share his process for creating the It’s Not a Fairy Tale series and discuss the ways modern creators have broken down and rebuilt familiar stories to create new books for today’s readers. October 19, 2023, 7-8:30pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

The Crash Course in Children’s Book Publishing ($)
At the end of this 10-week course, you will understand how the children’s book publishing industry works, including submitting, publishing, marketing a book for children, teens, or young adults, and beginning ideas about craft and critique. October 4, 2023 – December 6, 2023. From The Highlights Foundation.

November

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

SCBWI Independently Published Pre-publication Grant (*See note)
Provides $2,500 to help offset the price of self-publishing. Submissions open November 1 – 30, 2023. *Open to dues-paying members of SCBWI.

SCBWI Spark Award (*See note)
Recognizes excellence in a children’s book published through a non-traditional publishing route, including self-published and published through an established self-publishing enterprise. Submissions open November 1 – 30, 2023. *Free to apply for dues-paying members of SCBWI.

Black Friday Bootcamp (Free)
Learn how to write, illustrate, and publish children’s books in this all-day webinar. (No artistic talent required.) Happens the Friday after U.S. Thanksgiving each year, check site for this year’s details. Hosted and organized by Storyteller Academy and author Arree Chung.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

Designing Book Jackets with Hand-Drawn Lettering ($)
Author-Illustrator John Hendrix addresses how to integrate hand-drawn lettering into book jackets, illustrations, and visual imagery. November 16, 2023, 7-8:30pm Eastern Time. Hosted by The KidLit Hive.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Rate Your Story ($) (see January listing)
Registration open November through mid-January or until full. Annual membership fee includes manuscript critiques from professionals in the field, among other benefits.

December

Challenges, Contests, Mentorships, & Awards

Holiday Writing Contest (free)
Write a holiday story between 300 – 400 words, appropriate for ages 12 and under, following prompt for the current year. The 2022 prompt is Holiday Bad Guy! Hosted by children’s author Susanna Leonard Hill.

Webinars & Conferences

Events lasting from an hour to a few days, in mostly chronological order.

Writing Humorous Picture Books (even if you’re not funny) ($)
Join master funny kidlit writer Tara Lazar to understand what makes us laugh and how to amp up the humor in our own work. December 3, 2022, 1 – 2:30pm Eastern. Hosted by The Writers’ Loft.

MAKING WAVES 2022: An Online Illustrator Event ($)
Join us for two days of craft-oriented presentations, hands-on intensives, optional critiques, and a juried art show! December 2 – 4, 2022. Registration closes 11/29. Hosted by SCBWI MD/DE/WV.

Picture Book Revision: A Two-Night Mini ($)
You are your book’s first and most important editor. Join prolific picture book authors Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen and Anne Marie Pace for this short course filled with revision techniques for picture book writers. Two sessions: December 6 and 8, 2022, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.

Advanced Picture Book Revision Techniques: A Two-Night Mini ($)
Join prolific picture book author Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen for this short course to advance your picture book manuscript and satisfy the most discerning readers in the market! Two Sessions: December 12 and 14, 2022, 7 – 8:15pm Eastern Time. From the Highlights Foundation.

Writing the Picture Book Series ($)
Have you created an irresistible character, a unique setting, or a concept worth expanding? Join author Ann Marie Stephens for this craft webinar on turning it into a series. December 10, 2022, 10- 11:30am Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Practice Makes Pitch Perfect ($)
Join author Jocelyn Rish for this craft webinar on polishing the pitch for your project. You’ll go from dreading the pitch writing process to popping out powerful pitches that capture people’s attention. December 12, 2022, 6 – 7:30pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Writing From Life: How to Turn Real Events Into Fantastic Fiction ($)
Join award-winning authors Pat Zietlow Miller & e.E. Charlton-Trujillo for a craft webinar on writing picture books inspired by true events! December 16, 2022, 10 – 11:30am Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

Writing the Collective Biography ($)
Collective Biographies bring together the personal histories of many individuals under a single theme or purpose. Using his experience writing BLACK MEN IN SCIENCE as a guide, author Bryan Patrick Avery will cover the process of creating a Collective Biography. December 18, 2022, 2 – 4:30pm Central Time. Hosted by The Writing Barn.

SCBWI Regional Virtual Events (Fee and Free)
Clink link to see what’s happening this month and in months to come. Tons of fabulous, low-cost webinars available!

Multi-Week Courses

Courses and opportunities lasting more than a day or two.

Rate Your Story ($)
Registration open through mid-January or until full. Annual membership fee includes manuscript critiques from professionals in the field, among other benefits. Look for more info at the link.

Click here to see what’s happening in January!

Thanks to EVERYONE who contributed, including members of Writers’ Rumpus and the Facebook groups for 12×12, Children’s Book Academy, KidLit 411, and Picture Book Summitteers. Special thanks to Silvia Liu of KidLit411 and to authors Anna Maledon and Rachel Funez, whose extensive lists included several unique additions.

Months of a Year Banner Illustrations by Blue Ring Media, Shutterstock