Take your writing to the next level with tools and tips on crafting and publishing engaging picture books with award-winning author Vikki Conley.

Vikki has an infectious passion for writing and in this jam-packed session, you too can learn the magic and mechanics behind writing a picture book that publishers, parents, educators and children want to read – again and again. Come prepared to add to your writer's toolbox and transform your own ideas into real stories that will entertain and spark wonder in young children.

We'll also take a peek behind the scenes to see how a picture book is created – from idea to pitch perfect manuscript, ready for publication.

Participants will:

• Understand the format of picture book writing
• How text and illustrations work together, length, pace and story arc
• What makes a good story and character for picture books?
• Discover your voice and style for picture book writing, tap into your inner child and re-discover wonder
• Tips to stimulate story ideas, powerful prose and overcome writer’s block
• Learn how to story-build in a few quick steps and edit like a pro!

Suitable for all levels of writers.

About Vikki Conley

Vikki is an award-winning author with multiple internationally published picture books. She is a nature lover, intrepid traveler and creative guru. Vikki has worked as a professional writer, photographer and marketer, with diverse communities in Africa, Asia and Australia, for over 20 years.

Vikki has received various CBCA Book Of The Year Awards including Where The Lyrebird Lives (2023 – Notable Book), Amira’s Suitcase (2022 – Honour Book) and Little Puggle’s Song (2020 – Notable Book).

When Vikki is not writing, she is creating inclusive and sensory experiences for children through story, drama, nature and puppetry at schools, libraries and festivals. Vikki is part of the Ardoch Foundation’s writer in residence program and the Lamont Books authors in schools programs.

Vikki was recently invited by Orchestra Victoria to narrate a musical interpretation of her CBCA notable book, Little Puggle’s Song at the State Library of Victoria for 12 shows. In 2023, the show will go on regional tour.

Members $44 / Non-members $77

This workshop will be delivered via Zoom. Instructions will be emailed to you, please check your spam/junk folders. A recording will be available to registered participants for two weeks after the event.

—Not yet a Writers SA member? Join here for as little as $60!

—Writers SA members must be logged in to receive the member discount. If you would like to use a workshop credit to book in, please contact [email protected] at least five working days before the workshop commencement date. Our staff don’t work full time and we don’t want you to miss out!

—If you are a member of another state based writers centre or a member of SCBWI SA, please contact [email protected] at least five working days before the program commencement date to get a code for the member price.