The NJ SCBWI Conference takes place each year in June. (SCBWI stands for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.) The conference includes opportunities for learning, networking, and even one-on-one critiques from industry professionals. Writing aside, it is one of my favorite events because of the amazing people--old friends and new.
Here are five things I learned at this year’s conference:
1. I had no idea that teacher guides for novels could be so extensive! Pamela Brunskill showed us excellent examples during her workshop on Marketing for Schools.
2. As much potential as Scrivener seems to have, now is probably not the time for me to undertake the learning curve. (Scrivener fans, feel free to convince me otherwise!)
3. It’s always fun to meet your agency siblings!
With Liza Fleissig (center) and the Liza Royce Agency clients who attended NJ SCBWI.
4. Steve Meltzer explained the character arc behind many historical picture books biographies. An interesting anecdote doesn't necessarily translate into a substantial story.
5. As I suspected, crime scenes (and their fictional applications) are fascinating. And forget those chalk body outlines--they’re obsolete. Thanks to Detective Guy T. Olivieri of the Woodbridge NJ Police Department and author Charlotte Bennardo for their workshop, “Scene of the Crime” and for including Pandemic, fake blood splatters and all.
If you are interested in attending in the future and want an overview of this year's event, visit the conference website. I hope to see you there!
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