Picture Book Workshop
Writing Picture Books that Sing: the craft of making your story shine with Janet Sumner Johnson
Available spots
Service Description
$655 Writing Picture Books that Sing Picture Book Workshop: the craft of making your story shine It is a truth universally acknowledged that everyone can write a picture book. But it is also a truth, not-so-universally-acknowledged, that writing a good one takes work. In this hands-on intensive, join picture book author Janet Sumner Johnson as she teaches you the craft of writing picture books that sing. We’ll start with the basics, then dive deep into how to give stories their own unique voice that grabs a reader’s attention and has them coming back again and again. This week of in-class work will include a mix of presentation, question-and-answer, and workshopping. We’ll discuss topics such as plotting, structure, voice, layers, heart, illustration, and more. With these tools in your belts, you’ll put them to use as we workshop together in class. Bring the story you've been working on and/or come ready to develop one during the week. In addition, each attendee will meet with Janet individually to review their picture book manuscript (750 words or less). Please plan to turn in a copy of your story on the first day of class. We’ll discuss your strengths, things to work on, and answer any questions you may have [If you don’t yet have a completed picture book manuscript, we can discuss ideas, or you can use the time for questions]. Together, let’s take your picture book writing to the next level!
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
We understand not all circumstances can be anticipated. However, our faculty and staff put in a considerable amount of time critiquing registrants’ manuscripts and organizing Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers long before the conference begins. All refund requests must be made in writing. Please email carolloveswifyr@gmail.com to make the request. WIFYR Handling Fee Rates January = 20% February = 20% March = 25% April = 50% After May 1 = No refund Morning Class Deposit Refunds: If you make a deposit on a class and decide to withdraw, there will be a $200 non-refundable fee. Payment Plans: JANUARY & FEBRUARY ONLY! If you sign up by January 31, you can take advantage of a 4-month payment plan, and if you sign up by February 28, you can have a 3-month payment plan. Subsequent payments will be made by February 15 (if you sign up in January), March 15, and April 15 (final payment). Late payments may result in losing your spot in the class and a partial refund (see refund policy). Please only use this option if you're confident you are able to pay on time and in full by April 15, 2026.