I originally posted this article on my website on July 26, 2006–soon after attending my first Chautauqua children’s writers’ workshop. I’m reposting it here to encourage anyone who’s interested in writing for children to sign up for the 2008 workshop, July 12-19. I attended on a scholarship. The scholarship deadline has passed (February 15), but you can contact the Highlights Foundation for more information. -LaVora
I learned so much at the Highlight Foundation’s 2006 children’s writers conference at the Chautauqua institute in New York state. A big reason why, in addition to the phenomenal classes, was that I followed author friends’ advice to learn as much as I could from every faculty member, not only from the author assigned as my manuscript reader. One of the authors that gave me this wonderful tip was Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Northern Ohio Chapter’s Rhenee McGraw-Harris.
Another way I maximized my Chautauqua experience was by preparing to meet my reader. I read as many her books as I could before we met. Read on for the low-down on my encounter with my reader and more:
· My manuscript reader gave the scene from my manuscript the thumbs up and provided me with contact information for the person that can take it to the next step.
· A faculty member provided workshop participants with one essential and easy-to-do tip on how to acquire the ideal agent.
· While attending a workshop on writing about nature, whose info I intended to use to infuse my fiction with compelling details about the natural environment, I unexpectedly received valuable ideas on how to enliven non-fiction of all types.
· In addition to my reader, six authors or editors, some who’ve received top awards, graciously reviewed my manuscripts and provided concrete, immediately usable advice.
· I talking with several publishers/editors regarding manuscript submissions and ongoing freelance assignments.
· Fellow attendees provided me with information I could immediately use to either improve my writing or widen my contacts and I did the same for them. One tip I learned for my next writers’ conference: Before the conference, don’t only read the works of my official reader, read those of all the faculty members. I’d read books by some of the faculty members, but not all. Live and learn–and learn.
The way I see it, the best way to maximize the Chautauqua experience is to enter the institute’s fairy-tale-like grounds with an open mind and heart, don’t be afraid to ask for the help you need it, and help others however you can. If one person is unable to provide what you’re seeking, someone else will. The spirit of honestly sharing and caring from one’s heart pervaded the entire conference. This spirit is perhaps what Chautauqua’s “magic” is really all about.
PHOTO: Chautauqua 2006, Me and Jerry Spinelli—Author of Smiles to Go, Love, Stargirl and several other great books including 1991 Newbery Medal winner, Maniac McGee.
