August 11 @ 7:00 pm - August 13 @ 7:00 pm
Online
$59Overview
A Two-Night Online Course
Graphic novels are beloved by readers! But how do you get started with your graphic novel ideas?
Whether you wish to write for an artist, illustrate your own script, or dream of doing both, this program offers a clear, step-by-step entry point into graphic novels, grounded in history, craft, and the realities of today’s publishing landscape.
Join Wendy Xu and Chris Kindred to explore entry points into graphic novels. This two-session program is designed to help storytellers find a path forward for their ideas and includes a lecture each night, plus hands-on exercises, and time for your questions.
- Tuesday, August 11, 2026 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)
- Thursday, August 13, 2026 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)
- Webinar-style program with closed captioning available and limited interaction in the chat
- Recordings available until September 30, 2026
Why This Workshop?
Join graphic novel creators Wendy Xu and Chris Kindred for this two-part online program designed for storytellers who want to learn how to turn ideas into a plan for crafting a graphic novel, whether that’s starting your script, outlining visually, or a little of both. Whether you feel more at home in words or images, this session will help you play into your strengths and finally get started with your graphic novel idea!
Key topics covered during the program will include:
- Story concept to graphic novel script,
- The key components of visual storytelling (if you are or aren’t an illustrator),
- Bridging the gap between art and script through graphic novel and comic techniques (page turns, panels, and more),
- The evolution of the graphic novel form and how today’s publishing landscape shapes opportunity,
- And more!
Each 75-minute session will include a presentation, a hands-on exercise, and time reserved for Q&A on both nights of the program.
It’s a Great Fit If…
- You are interested in learning more about graphic novels. This mini course is filled with information as well as a historical overview and a contemporary lens on the form.
- You’re just starting to write or illustrate a graphic novel. This might be just what you need to keep going and growing your knowledge of graphic novels!
- You’re looking for something short, sweet, and smart! This is not a full workshop; these are short sessions meant to get you motivated to start your graphic novel project!
Tentative Agenda
At registration: You will receive a Zoom link to use each night of the course. If you can make live sessions or would prefer to watch the replays, access will be provided to those who sign up.
Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. All Times are Eastern Time.
Part 1: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 (7pm-8:15pm Eastern)
- Introduction: Let’s dive into where graphic novels began and where they are going!
- What can we learn from visual storytelling strategies, no matter our comfort in writing and/or illustrating
- Try this: A panel– stick figures are encouraged!!
- Q&A
Part 2: Thursday, August 13, 2026 (7pm-8:15pm EST)
- What is a graphic novel script and where does your idea fit into this storytelling format?*
- Visual Outlining* and Plot Beats, what works for you?
- Try it: Visual outlining and/or plot beats
- Q&A
Handout with script example will be sent to you.*
Handout with visual outlining will be sent to you.*
About This Online Storytelling Mini
DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN
What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work?
- None. There will be limited interaction in the chat feature of the webinar-style program.
Will The Sessions Be Recorded? Can I Access the Recordings?
IF YOU CAN’T ATTEND LIVE: If you are unable to attend either session for any reason, you’ll have access to the recordings (with closed captioning) through September 30, 2026.
- Please note that if you cannot attend live but you’d like to receive recording links by email, you must register for this course. Recordings are not sold separately; they are only available to those who register.
- Please also note that if you register for the course after the start of the first session, you will not receive recordings immediately. You’ll receive both recordings after the close of the last session, usually within 24 hours.
How Does This Online Workshop Support Our Mission?
Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform, educate, and inspire children to become their best selves. Learning more about graphic novels helps meet readers with their interests.
Can I Connect with Other Participants During the Workshop?
There will be limited interactivity within the chat. There will also be Q&A portions.
