Are you interested in writing or illustrating children’s books? How about studying children’s literature? We’re inviting writers, illustrators, teachers, and readers to spend a few days in the Hamptons to analyze and celebrate books, plays, and television programs for children.
Think of the synergy in bringing these groups together—writers and illustrators for children will learn from teachers what children want. And educators fascinated by the creative process can take away wonderful new ways to teach writing.
WORKSHOPS
For Writers: Workshops will be led by children’s
authors and editors of the first rank
who are also experienced, accessible teachers.
Workshop size is limited. Students will
meet on successive mornings, having
exchanged work beforehand. Topics include:
Chapter Books, Picture Books, Writing for
Children’s Television, and Young Adult
Novels. Some of the distinguished faculty are
Tor Seidler, author of the award-winning
book The Wainscott Weasel; Mitchell
Kriegman, story editor for “The Rugrats” TV
show; and accomplished editor Cindy Kane.
For Readers: Understanding what makes children’s literature work, identifying the trends, and discussing why fairy tales have such resonance—these are workshops for serious thinkers and lovers of children’s literature. Workshops are taught by important theorists in the study of children’s literature, both classic and contemporary.
For Illustrators: The marriage of text and words is crucial. New Yorker cartoonist Gahan Wilson and other gifted illustrators are leading workshops.
GUEST SPEAKERS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
In the afternoons, participants may choose
from a wide range of elective sessions with
distinguished authors, editors, publishers,
and agents. Evenings feature a number of
well-known authors. The schedule of formal
and informal social gatherings is rich—from
author receptions to an open-mic night—with
a few surprises, too. We’re pleased to offer
three graduate credits to eligible students.