A few pictures from the writing conference
I just got back from the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators conference in Los Angeles. It was an incredibly inspiring and fun week.
As an Assistant Regional Advisor for SCBWI, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to volunteer alongside many talented writers and illustrators. Here’s a picture of me with some of my writing friends who are also involved with SCBWI: from left to right–Erin Dealey, Tekla White, and Patricia Newman. (Stop by their sites if you have a minute and check out their children’s books!)
The conference was full of valuable workshops and amazing speeches, and on Saturday night there was a “Blue Moon Ball” where everyone wore blue–from jeans to dresses, to graduation gowns.
I had the honor of meeting Newberry award winning author Richard Peck, who in his keynote speech gave the advice: “You have to read 1,000 books before you write one”…
I also enjoyed hearing many talented authors speak, such as Eve Bunting (who has written more than 250 children’s books), Karen Cushman (Newberry award winner), Betty G. Birney (The World According to Humphrey), Melinda Long (How I Became a Pirate), as well as writer/illustrator Dan Yaccarino (creator of Oswald and the Backyardigans), among many others.
If you’re interested in writing (or illustrating), I recommend going to a conference if you can. Not only is it a great way to connect with others who love doing the same thing you do, but it’s also a place to refuel, learn, be inspired, meet some wonderful people, and build lasting friendships.
There were a lot more pictures from the week, and even more great memories, but for now, I need to get my suitcase unpacked, then packed again. I’m going out of town on Thursday to visit my sister for the weekend and I’m really looking forward to it. :)
Sounds like an incredible opportunity! I know when I have gone to conferences for mothering and teaching I have also left inspired and encouraged. There is something about being together with a bunch of people who share your passion that can really energize you!
What an exciting opportunity! You got to hear so many people talk about something you all have a passion for…that's awesome!
That sounds like an amazing conference!
I love all of my people pictures. When I look at them it brings back such awesome memories.
What an awesome opportunity for you!!!!
What an exciting opportunity, I love conferences
That is good advice to read 1000 books before writing one. It is best to observe before taking action :)
sounds like a fantastic time
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOhhhhhhhh……….sounds amazing. How do I find out about the next conference like this one? You look so pretty in all of the photos. I wish I could have met you in person. Next conference, perhaps?
What an interesting opportunity! I like the pictures!
Looks (and sounds) like you had fun! What a great experience. Since I'm not really a 'writer' it would be interesting for me to attend something like this. In my spare time, of course. :)
That sounds fun! I'm glad you had a good time. I can't even imagine writing a children's book. It must've been so cool to meet those authors! Love Peck's advice too. :-)
sounds like that would be a great conference glad to hear you had a great time. The pictures are great and will remind you always of this special occasion
Looks like a great time and an awesome opportunity.
What a unique experience:-)
wow that sounds like a lot of fun!
How funny Genny! You look great and it sounds like it was time well spent.
What a great conference! Events like that are always so motivating and uplifting.
Sounds like it was a great conference, I just got back from an academic conference. It's great when you can come back refreshed & energized.
What an amazing conference! Glad you got to attend! If you haven't noticed by now. rrmama.com has been having issues. I had to switch to rrmama.net Hope you follow me there!
♥ I think I'm close to reading 1000 books and tried writing and suck at it! I love to read them though! You guys have my admiration for that talent! :)
I like the advice of reading 1000 books before writing one, reading enriches our writing.
that sounds like a wonderful time! how neat that you met so many of the authors and illustrators that i have read books of in my classroom! that would be so neat! Eve Bunting is one of my favorites! great memories and a wonderful opportunity for you!
I'm so glad that you had a productive time at the conference. Missed your daily posts though. You look great in all the photos!
What an amazing opportunity for you. You obviously have such a passion for it! Sounded like a great conference.