COMING EVENTS

Introductory Writing Classes

Igniting Writing

IMagine Writing A Children's Book: Part 1 (VIRTUAL)

Course Description

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 for over 20 years, 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.

  • WHEN: Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 PM   

    February 28, March 6, 13, 20, 27

  • WHO: ALL CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITERS

  • SPONSOR: Carrboro ArtsCenter

  • HOW MUCH: $130

  • REGISTRATION LINK: https://app.amilia.com/store/en/theartscenter/shop/activities/4851325

IMAGINE Writing A CHILDREN’S BOOK: Part 2 (VIRTUAL)

Course Description

How do you get your children’s book down on paper? What makes for a book that sparkles with style? Susie Wilde, children’s book columnist for the Raleigh News and Observer, unites 30 years of writing and reviewing experience to show you how to make a story sing. Wilde focuses on fiction elements needed to craft a strong story: images, dialogue, and vivid verbs.  The class blends hands-on exploration of children’s books with writing exercises and opportunities to share your work. To take this class you must have completed Part 1, or have teacher approval.

  • WHEN: Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM;  April 10, 17, 24; May 1, 8

  • WHO: CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITERS who have completed part 1 or have instructor permission

  • SPONSOR: CARRBORO ARTSCENTER

  • HOW MUCH: $130

  • REGISTRATION LINK: https://app.amilia.com/store/en/theartscenter/shop/activities/5074096

Master Critique Classes

Evening Crit Class

This critique class is for dedicated writers who have a work in progress. Be prepared to share work every week. This session will start with 5 classes, we'll break for two weeks to regroup, and then continue with 5 more classes. This class is limited to six students.

  • When: Tuesdays, 7:00-9:30 PM   January 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13 (break February 20 & 27) March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 2 

  • Who: Intermediate-Advanced Children’s Book Writers

     
  • How much: $500/session of 10 Classes

  • Class limited to 6 writers

Morning Crit Class

This critique class is for dedicated writers who have a work in progress. Be prepared to share work every week. This session will start with 5 classes, we'll break for two weeks to regroup, and then continue with 5 more classes. This class is limited to six students.

  • When: Thursdays, 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM January 18, 25; February 1, 8, 15 (Break February 22 & 29) March 7, 14, 21, 28; April 3

  • Who: Intermediate-Advanced Children’s Book Writers

     
  • How much: $500/session of 10 Classes

  • Class limited to 6 writers

Igniting Writing

WILDE AWARDS

2023 Wilde Awards

28th annual Wilde Awards : Best Children's Books of 2024 (Virtual on Instagram)

For years Susie Wilde appeared in bookstores declaring her choices of best children's books for those who are only months-old to adult readers who love the exquisite nature of young adult novels. Pandemic taught her that things work just as well on-line and in the past year she's discovered the marvels of Instagram. So....what are the best 2023 books for babies to young adults? You can find out when Susie presents award-winners for all ages and categories. Each will have a link to purchase from Bookshop.org, a company that supports indy bookstores.

  • When: TBA

     
  • Who: Children's Book Lovers of all ages

     
  • Sponsor: book links will be available post-live event through Bookshop.org, supporting Indy bookstores

  • Registration link: Announcements will appear on FB, Instagram, Booktok and here of course!

A father showing a story book to his small child