How to be a Picture Book Writer

This new, four-week course includes:

• Three, one-hour, live, interactive webinars, in which you will get the chance to ask Jo questions.
• Twelve+ videos, in which Jo will share publishing industry insights and give top tips on writing picture book texts, using published picture books by best-selling authors to demonstrate the tricks and techniques you can explore in your own writing.
• One workbook module per week over four weeks, each examining a different aspect of picture book storytelling.
  • Each module, full of advice based on Jo’s many years’ experience in the picture book publishing industry, includes notes on the week’s topic, exercises to improve your writing, and a weekly assignment. These are self-guided assignments to be completed in your own time.
• A private Facebook group in which you can ask Jo questions about the course, gain support and share your journey with your peers.

This course is perfect for anyone with a passion for picture books, ideas for their own stories and a willingness to learn the craft. It is particularly relevant for those who wish to prepare their application for the Academy’s popular one-year picture book writing programme.

You need only three things to apply for this course:

• A passion for picture books
• A story idea
• A willingness to learn how to develop your craft

Next course start date: 6th June 2022

This course runs up to three times per year. If you’ve missed the deadline, join the mailing list to receive updates on how and when to apply for our next course!

This course can be paid for in full or in three instalments.

Week One: Free your imagination

Engage your inner child as we get to know the child audience and learn how to identify the best picture book story ideas for today’s market.

Week 2: Shape up your character

We consider the unique characteristics of picture book writing and discover the secret to creating memorable characters.

Week 3: Shake up your story

Get plotting as we learn all about structure, shape and building your storyline.

Week 4: Win with your ending

We look at the ingredients for a winning story ending and get to know the picture book publishing industry, the people you’ll work with, and the creative process from commissioned text to finished book.