In this introductory dive, you’ll uncover things you never knew about picture books – from a book’s anatomy to the many themes and types, and the team that puts them together. Discover what’s possible within magical format of storytelling, and gain a starting knowledge of publishing that you can build on.

• Learn the elements that make up a picture book, cover to cover
• Know what to expect during a picture book process
• Feel the seeds of an idea growing – and be prepared to tackle it!

Want to make your readers lean forward and ask, ‘What happens next?’ In this module, I take you through the principles shared by some of the best story-tellers. Though there is no single formula for a great story, these tricks of the trade are worth mastering:

• Memorable characters and setting
• The three-act structure and how to storyboard
• The rule of 3’s and its many layers

Mem Fox once said, ‘Writing a picture book is like writing ‘War and Peace’ in Haiku.’ Most submission guidelines ask for manuscripts of 500 words or less – yet this humble word count have led to the most well-loved stories. Learn how to make every word earn its place:

• Explore ‘voice’
• Show, don’t tell – a concept that will transform your writing!
• Literary devices, and are big words really too big for kids?
• To rhyme, or not to rhyme?

By now you’ve tackled some really big modules! You’re probably brimming with ideas, questions, and tons of creative energy … here’s a chance to hunker down and try out what you’ve learned so far.

While I don’t intend to overwhelm you with a formal module, I’ll send sprinkles of prompts, bonus videos and fun links throughout the week, and we’ll come together for a live round-up session before diving back into lessons.

You can’t have a picture book without … well, pictures! In this module, you’ll learn about different types of illustrations, the marriage between words and pictures, and your role as an author, even if you’re not an illustrator:

• How are illustrators and illustrations chosen? What goes on behind the scenes?
• Different types of illustrations, and what they’re used for
• Visual literacy, and why is makes the picture book format irresistible

The story is on the page … now to make it pretty. Nobody ever submits their first draft without editing with a keen eye and ear, and getting feedback means more than getting a family member to read it. Learn the vital skills of revising your draft so that it’s ready to be shown to an editor or publisher:

• A guide to self-editing
• The role of critique groups, assessments and feedback

So, how exactly do you go about submitting your manuscript? Learn how to research publishers and agents, write cover letters, format your manuscript, and follow up on your submissions. This module is designed to make a daunting task feel orderly and exciting.

• Learn the do’s and don’t of submissions
• Manuscript formats with real examples
• Researching, planning and tracking your submissions

Writing is just part of the gig! In this module, we talk about:

• Being part of a community – online and in person
• What happens when the answer is ‘no’ … and when the answer is ‘yes’!
• Overview of contracts, advances, royalties etc.
• Other author roles and income streams
• Lifelong growth, learning and connection