Writing for Picture Books With Shannon Horsfall

Writing for Picture Books
With Shannon Horsfall

Knit your words and illustrations together to make your story pop!

Learn the elements of a successful picture book, including writing structure, and the story arc. Writer and illustrator, Shannon Horsfall, will touch on how to generate ideas and draw from experience or common childhood themes. Writers will find out how to write for an illustrated story, and illustrators will hear how to tell their stories alongside their artwork. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will have written a simple story and have the skills to structure and write for picture books.

Learning Outcomes
You will improve your writing skill-set through practical exercises and group discussions. On successful completion of the workshop, you will have a fundamental understanding of the below:
- The key elements of picture books
- How to write to appeal to a young audience and excite the reader (often an adult)
- How to generate ideas
- How to explore classic themes
- How to write a story that is read aloud—rhythm, pace, gaps and silences
- How to develop your voice for picture books
- How to draw the reader in with the first line or first page
- How to allow the illustrations to tell the story too