COMING EVENTS

Introductory Writing Classes

Igniting Writing

Children's Book Makeovers: Turning Messes into Successes (ONLINE)

Course Description

Celebrities are certain to publish children’s books, but few of their books succeed. What distinguishes a book that works and one that doesn’t. This playful class begins as Susie Wilde, writer and reviewer, shares picture books that satisy and please and others that fail (many of these written by celebrities). We will examine writing facets such as point of view and tone and then use these concepts as frameworks to examine books. Then we will apply these learnings to our own creative departures, using unsuccessful books as prompts to provide an opportunity to create literary makeovers. This class is completely online. Once you register, please reach out directly to Susie, the instructor, at [email protected] or 919-357-3474 to get the virtual meeting link. 

  • WHEN: Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 times starting Tuesday, January 28, 2025,

  • WHO: Children's Book Writers and Lovers

  • LOCATION: Online

  • HOW MUCH: $137.00 

  • REGISTRATION LINK: Register through the Carrboro ArtsCenter @ https://artscenterlive.org/

IMAGINE WRITING A CHILDREN’S BOOK: PART 1 & 2 (VIRTUAL)

Course Description

Part 1: 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?  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.

Part 2: 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. 

  • WHEN: TBA

  • WHO:  Anyone who has wanted to write a children's book

  • SPONSOR: TBA

  • HOW MUCH: TBA

  • REGISTRATION LINK: TBA

Master Critique Classes

  • When: Wednesdays, 6:30-9:30 PM  January 15, 22, 29; February 5, 12  (break February 19 & 26); 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

Evening Crit Class

This critique class is for dedicated writers who have a work in progress. Be prepared to share work every week. This class is limited to six students.

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Igniting Writing

WILDE AWARDS

Wilde Awards LiVE

Best Children's Books of 2024

Once again, Susie Wilde appears live declaring her choices for the best 2024 children's books. Picture books for those who are only months-old to books for adult readers who love the exquisite nature of young adult novels. Funny books, thoughtful books, rhyming books. Join Susie to celebrate children's books and community.

  • When: January 23, 2025

     
  • Who: Children's Book Lovers of all ages

     
  • Sponsor: Flyleaf Books, 752 M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

  • Registration link: Event is free and no registration is necessary

A father showing a story book to his small child