Whispering Woods Picture Book Workshop/Retreat
For this year’s dates, please contact Jill.
If you are committed to making your picture book manuscript the best it can be, join authors Jill Esbaum and Linda Skeers for a productive weekend immersed in the world of picture book writing.
We'll study the elements of successful picture book stories and provide you with the tools necessary to make yours rise to the top of the dreaded slush pile. We'll discuss characterization, conflict, dialogue, language and word choice, plot structure, point of view, snappy beginnings and unexpected endings, winning titles, marketing strategies, and why stories have to be close to perfect to snag the eye of an editor.
Join us at Our Lady of the Prairie, a retreat center nestled in the wooded hills of Eastern Iowa, for a weekend of learning, writing and FUN. Aside from studying the craft of writing with Jill and Linda, you'll participate in peer critiques, have time to write and revise, socialize, walk among the trees, sit by the pond, or just relax on the porch with a cup of tea and enjoy the cardinals and gold finches so abundant on the property.
Jill and Linda have sold a (combined) total of 17 picture books, as well as 25 nonfiction books.
All levels of writing experience are welcome. Space is limited to 7 participants.
All inclusive -- $450.
Contact Linda: skeerswriter@gmail.com
Linda’s website: www.lindaskeers.com
Jill Esbaum is the author of many picture books and writes nonfiction for National Geographic Kids. She is a former instructor for the Institute of Children’s Literature and workshop leader at the University of Iowa's Summer Writing Festival.
Linda Skeers is the author of The Impossible Patriotism Project (Dial), Tutus Aren't My Style (Dial), and the collective biography History Makers: Toy Makers (Lucent). Linda is an instructor for the Institute of Children's Literature and the listserve moderator for SCBWI-Iowa.
