Writing for Children: An Introduction for the Absolute Beginner at the Fairfield Public Library

Join children’s author Christine Pakkala for a beginner’s introduction to writing for children at the Fairfield Public Library.  Have you always dreamed of writing a children’s story?  Did you know that you already have all the tools you need to begin?  By drawing on your own experiences, interests or family history, you can write a wonderful and unique children’s story.  The first session will take a look at some great children’s books for different ages, and talk about what makes them appealing to adults and children alike, paying specific attention to the voice of the main character.  We’ll also discuss genre.  What makes a picture book, an early reader, a beginning chapter book?  What’s the difference between middle grade and young adult?  The state of children’s book publishing and whether it is best to find an agent, an editor or neither will be considered.  In the second session, with guidance, good humor, writing prompts, and coffee, we’ll put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard, depending on your preference) and we’ll write the first two pages (or more) of our children’s books (yes, you can do it). Then we’ll share what we’ve written!  Please come to both sessions with a notebook, pen, and a few ideas of what you’d like to write.  Registration is required.

This two-part workshop will meet Tuesday, October 15, and Tuesday, November 12 from 7:00-8:30 pm in the Memorial Room at the Main Library, 1080 Old Post Road.

Instructor Christine Pakkala is a graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and a former Fulbright scholar.  Her children’s chapter book series debut, Last-But-Not-Least Lola Going Green, has recently been published by Boyd’s Mill Press.  Her essays have appeared in Salon, Serendipity, and Ladies Home Journal, among others.  Her children’s picture book, Chasing Ricky, was published in Japan and is entering its second printing there.
 
The Fairfield Public Library has a variety of programs and services for writers including Writers’ Groups, a monthly Writers’ Salon, a monthly Writers Read night and a dedicated Writers’ Room.

All programs at the Fairfield Public Library are free.  To register or for more information, visit our website www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org, or call 203-256-3160. Follow the Fairfield Public Library on Twitter: www.twitter.com/fairfieldpublib and Facebook: www.facebook.com/fairfieldlibrary.