On Sunday, May 16, creators came together to discuss all things writing and illustrating for children. It was a fantastic day held at the National Library in Canberra.
Here’s a wrap up of the event:
“Getting a foot in the door”
Max Hamilton – illustrator
Max opened the conference by sharing her top tips for becoming a published illustrator. She highlighted the importance of knowing what makes your illustrations unique and being able to show a range of emotions, use colour consistently throughout and showing movement.
Max pointed out that being a children’s book illustrator is a collaborative pursuit and all about making connections. A successful illustrator will be able to take on feedback and implement it, and most importantly do it for the love of illustrating. Social media is a great tool for being seen by publishers and always include a few hashtags such as: #sydneyillustrator #childrensbooks
“What can you bring to the author/illustrator table”
Liz Ledden – author and podcaster
Liz Ledden, Author and Podcaster
Author Liz Ledden shared fantastic insights about transferring existing skills into your author or illustrator career. Liz encouraged the audience to think about what pre-existing skills they can incorporate into their careers. For example, author Shelly Unwin previously worked in sales and now uses those techniques when talking to groups about her books. Other examples include Nat Amoore, whose event management background has helped her plan brilliant book launches. The audience answered a series of questions to help them think about what they could bring to the author/illustrator table.
“Writing narrative non-fiction”
Kate Simpson – author and podcaster
Kate Simpson, Author and Podcaster
Kate ran a very informative session about writing non-fiction picture books. Kate has two non-fiction picture books and her third due in 2022. Of the many insights Kate shared, she explained a few important must-do’s including, keeping it simple, finding a focal point and making the story engaging. You don’t have to be an expert in the topic, but it helps. If changes are made to the ‘truth’ be honest about it, you may be able to add notes at the end of the book.
Narrative non-fiction is booming!
“Beyond the book”
Nat Amoore - author and podcaster
Nat Amoore, Author and Podcaster
In Nat’s honest and informative talk, she advised only doing social media if you enjoy it. “Do what you’re good at.”
Nat admitted to disliking writing blogs and newsletters, therefore, she maximizes social media by sharing photos and making videos (something she enjoys and has experience working in video production). On the topic of book launches, Nat said to think outside the box and look for photo opportunities that will be visually appealing on social media. For example, Nat didn’t let covid stop her. She positioned herself in the window of a bookshop where she could still interact with customers and sell books.
One More Page podcast hosts
Kate, Liz and Nat
One More Page Podcast Panel
The three hosts were interviewed by Shelly Unwin. Kate, Liz and Nat shared the different range of skills they bring to the podcast. Kate loves speaking to interviewees, Liz loves copywriting and marketing, and Nat is a technical whiz with her editing skills. The podcast was born out of their desire to connect with people who love kids’ books. Of the many interviews they have done, they all commented on how everyone has been easy to connect with and so enjoyable to talk to.
Maryann Ballantyne – Editor, Wild Dog Books
Donna Rawlins – Art Director, Wild Dog Books
Krys Saclier, Donna Rawlins and Maryann Ballantyne
Everyone was all ears for the final panel of the day.
Advice from Maryann:
Maryann explained she doesn’t know what she’s looking for until she sees it. However, she does keep an eye out for Australian stories that cover the topics: ‘Where are we now?” “Where have we come from?” and “Where are we going?”
In 2022, they have 12-14 titles due for release, their most to date. Maryann highlighted the importance of finding your voice and letting it shine through your manuscript.
Advice from Donna Rawlins:
Art Director and illustrator Donna had much to share, including a book recommendation: “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards. Donna encouraged creators to hone their craft and folio. A folio should be full of illustrations telling stories, not full of pictures. Instagram is a great place to show your work, they do look!
What a great day! It was wonderful to hear from so many talented professionals and bring so many creators together.
SCBWI ACT Committee: Shelly Unwin, Catherine Meatheringham, Sarah Wallace and Krys Saclier
Well done to the ACT committee, led by Shelly Unwin. We can’t wait for the next event.
Catherine Pelosi and Ramona Davey
Roving reporters: Ramona Davey – illustrator and Catherine Pelosi – author