Events

Presentations

Introductory Children’s Book Classes
IMAGINE A CHILDREN’S BOOK: PART I

For years you’ve dreamed of writing a children’s book. You may even have a vague story idea. But how do you turn that into a workable plot? Susie Wilde, children’s book columnist for the Raleigh News and Observer, unites 30 years of writing and reviewing experience to teach you the steps that help give your story structure. From creating original characters to developing their motivations, conflicts, and finally resolutions, this class blends hands-on exploration of children’s books with opportunities to share your writing and ideas with fellow students.

  • Where: 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
  • When: Wednesdays, July 12- August 9 From: 7:00 pm-9:30 pm
  • How Much: $113
  • Who: Children’s Book Writers–all levels from beginners to those more experienced

Link to register: https://artscenterlive.secure.force.com/ticket/#sections_a0F36000009SuUbEAK

Critique Groups

Weekly Tuesday Night Critique Group

This critique class is for dedicated writers who have work-in-progress. Bring copies of your manuscript for each of your colleagues; be prepared to share work every week. There will be 6 classes in this session and this class is limited to six students.

  • When: 7:15-10:00 pm on Tuesdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; June 6
  • Where: 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
  • Who: Children’s Book Writers
  • How Much: $210
  • Space for one student
Weekly Thursday Morning Critique Group

This critique class is for dedicated writers who have work-in-progress. Bring copies of your manuscript for each of your colleagues; be prepared to share work every week. There will be 6 classes in this session and this class is limited to six students.

  • When: 9:15am 1:00 pm on Thursdays, May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1, 8
  • Where: 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
  • Who: Children’s Book Writers
  • How Much: $210
  • Register: This class is currently fully enrolled.
Monthly Critique Groups 

These critique classes are for writers who are still finding their stories and want to working on their craft. There will be 2 classes in the spring session and the classes are limited to six students.

  • When:
    • Daytime Classes 9:30 am -12:00pm, Monday May 8, June 5
    • Evening Classes 7:15 pm -10:00 pm, Monday May 8, June 5
  • Where: 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
  • Who: Children’s Book Writers
  • How Much: $35/class
  • Register: email to confirm attendance

Professional Development Workshops

Reading Methods To Address Classroom Issues

This workshop begins as participants open boxes of newly published children’s books.  Patricipants will examine and explore these books to discover how they satisfy curriculum needs.  We will seek books that have characters of color, books that help your students with learning disabilities, STEM books and more.  These and other concerns will frame a development workshop that allows teachers time to explore new books, examine their content and worth, and discuss which ones matter.  This 10 hour class will earn teachers 1 CEU credit.

Dates and Times:  Friday, 4:30-8:30pm & Sat. 9am-3pm, June 2 & 3

Location: Susie Wilde’s home, 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27

Fee: $90

Registration: https://artscenterlive.secure.force.com/ticket/#sections_a0F36000009SuZCEA0

Family Classes

Family Writing Adventure: Creating an Imaginative Narrative

Susie Wilde leads families on an exploration of children’s books and writing as she guides them in wondering their way to a whimsical story. This course includes the basics of writing—the first class will focus on structuring an imaginative story and the second class will reveal style elements to make stories sparkle. Within these classes we’ll create a collaborative story that will serve as an example to inspire family writing.