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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260712
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260717
DTSTAMP:20260713T085242
CREATED:20251105T232046Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T171741Z
UID:63611-1783814400-1784246399@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Summer Camp for Writers and Illustrators: Session Two!
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 5-Day/4-Night Workshop and Retreat \nGet away for five days at our Summer Camp for fiction and nonfiction storytellers who are looking for inspiration\, guidance\, mentorship\, community\, fun\, creativity\, and…a place to dream! \nAt Boyds Mills\, “summer camp” is different than S’mores by the fire and hiking in the woods. (Though we do that\, too.) \nOur Summer Camp is a time to find the kind of encouragement for your stories that only a generous mentor can provide. Here you’ll find: inspiration and support; a community that understands the long process of turning dreams into books for children; small group and one-to-one guidance to fine-tune your stories\, all while you have some fun. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person workshop at our Retreat Center with hands-on sessions\, mentorship\, and ample time for independent work\, meeting informally with fellow creatives\, and resting.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins with dinner 5:30pm Eastern on Sunday\, July 12\nEnds with lunch on Thursday\, July 16\nPre-retreat Zoom to answer questions about submissions and discuss our summer camp community will be held on Monday\, June 1 at 12 noon Eastern (this will be recorded for those who cannot attend live).\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“I was matched with just the right mentor for me. Her background and passions matched mine\, and she helped me see possibilities that I hadn’t been able to see on my own.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were not only very knowledgeable but warm and generous. Very high-quality faculty! My mentor was really helpful and encouraging and helped me to see approaches for my idea that I couldn’t have seen myself.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were engaged\, generous with their time and wisdom\, and human. It was really refreshing/important that many of them not only presented but also participated in various parts of the camp; that sent a great “we are all learning\, all journeying together” message.  \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“As a newcomer to writing for children\, I can’t tell you how it felt to be welcomed into community and truly experience belonging and acceptance as a person in the early stages of writing.  \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nThis five-day\, in-person summer camp is centered on mentorship\, inspiration\, and community with: \n\nopportunities for learning and interaction;\nample self-paced time to make progress on a project and/or play with your creativity;\nand feedback that includes 1:1 mentorship with your faculty reader at the beginning and end of the program\, facilitated peer discussions\, plus informal feedback throughout.\n\nMornings will be structured around lectures and meetings with fellow creatives (including your faculty reader and small groups). Afternoons will be for independent writing\, drawing\, and revising\, as well as fiction\, nonfiction\, illustration\, and publishing sessions (with hands-on exercises). \nYou will: \n\nTake in educational and inspirational keynotes by our faculty. These will refresh your passion for the craft of writing and motivate you to keep going.\nParticipate in breakout sessions with tracks in fiction\, nonfiction\, illustration\, and getting started as a professional writer.\nExplore storytelling through a range of topics\, including nonfiction\, fiction\, poetry\, and more!\nReceive guidance on how to submit manuscripts and proposals to publishers and/or agents.\nWork one-to-one with faculty on a project of your choice. Faculty reader/attendee pairings will be made thoughtfully according to your work and your goals. (Turning your submission in by June 8\, 2026 allows us to make this pairing.)\nParticipate in small group discussions with a thoughtfully chosen group of fellow attendees. This small group style is designed to help you lead a discussion of your work with other creatives\, assisted by a workshop facilitator. Storytellers can share the same project they are using with their faculty mentor\, or a new project.\nHave ample free writing time so that you can dream and work on your own projects. Summer camp includes time for retreat\, mentorship\, and inspiration!\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				This Workshop is a Great Fit If…\n\nYou’re new to writing and/or illustrating for children and/or teens. You’ll get 1:1 feedback that will help you look at your work-in-progress in a new way\, and have time to make significant progress on your project(s).\nYou have an in-progress or finished manuscript and would like feedback. Your faculty reader will give you feedback\, answer questions\, and support you in setting goals. Your peer group can help you consider your revision goals and plans.\nYou’re an experienced writer and/or illustrator who is curious about how to get started in children’s publishing. You will find out about the children’s market and meet fellow storytellers passionate about bringing stories to kids and teens.\nYou need a jolt of creativity or a reminder of purpose. Summer Camp can be about getting work done if you want it to be\, but it can also be about renewing your spark and purpose in writing for kids and teens.\nYou’d appreciate some retreat time. This course has plenty of built-in time to write\, doodle\, or dream–whatever you need.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Retreat Schedule Overview\n				Daily Schedule \nMornings will be structured around lectures and meetings with fellow creatives (including your faculty reader and small groups). \nAfternoons will be for independent work and revising\, as well as fiction\, nonfiction\, illustration\, and publishing sessions (with hands-on exercises). \nMentorship and Feedback \nYour faculty mentor will provide written feedback on your submission and you’ll discuss this feedback during your 1:1 meetings at the beginning of the program. At the end of the program\, you will have a chance to “check-in” with your reader and discuss plans for moving forward with your project(s). During the workshop\, there will also be informal moments to meet and discuss your work with attendees and faculty apart from your faculty mentor. \nYour peer group discussions put you in control of leading the conversation to gain what you need most to move forward with your revision (and/or completion) of your story. Our feedback sessions offer you support\, and give you space to ask questions to help problem-solve\, brainstorm new ideas\, and work through challenges. All peer group discussions have an engaged facilitator to keep the conversation focused\, keep time\, and most importantly\, build a safe environment for sharing. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n				\nYou will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives\, engage in Highlights Foundation related resources (including our Community Standards)\, and view submission details related to this course.\nMonday\, June 1 at 12pm (noon) Eastern: Pre-retreat Zoom to answer questions about submissions and discuss our summer camp community. (This session will be recorded for those who cannot attend live.)\nSubmission deadline: before the workshop\, preferably by June 8\, 2026.\n\nPicture book writers can submit one full picture book manuscript of up to 1\,200 words. This submission should also contain a cover letter (including where you are in the project\, your connection to the topic/theme\, and specific questions you have for your faculty reader).\nThose writing longer nonfiction or fiction can submit up to 2\,500 words from a current work in progress for their faculty reader. This submission should contain a cover letter (including where you are in the project\, a summary of the complete project arc if you know it\, your connection to the topic/theme\, and specific questions you have for your faculty reader).\nIllustrators can submit one full picture book manuscript (up to 1\,200 words)\, or a digital link to your portfolio of images\, or up to 5 pages of a longer piece of illustrated fiction or nonfiction (including a graphic novel). The submission should also include a cover letter including specific questions that you have for your faculty reader.)\nIf you are between projects or just starting out\, you can submit a book proposal with a short writing sample or a one-page list of ideas you are considering as a full-length project. This submission should also contain a cover letter.\nIn addition to submitting one of the above choices to your faculty reader\, you will submit pages for your peer groups. These submissions can be from the same work-in-progress given to your faculty reader\, or a new project altogether (please follow the same length guidelines and cover letter requests).\nSubmissions are due June 8\, 2026 to allow ample time for readers to take in your story.\n\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day 1: Sunday\, July 12\, 2026\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in.\n5:30pm: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Opening & Welcome Activity with Alex Villasante\n\nFollowed by meeting with your faculty mentor for informal introductions.\n\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day 2: Monday\, July 13\, 2026\n				Morning: \n\nBreakfast\nKeynote with S.K. Ali\n1:1 Meetings with Faculty Reader (retreat time for those not in meetings)\n\nOptional Writing Prompt\n\n\n\nAfternoon: \n\nLunch\nFree writing time\nBreakout Sessions (Your choice of topic\, with themes of Fiction\, Nonfiction\, or Getting Started as a Professional Writer. [Session titles coming soon.]  Select one live\, with access to a recording of the session you miss.)\n\nWith Don Tate\nWith Steve Light\n\n\n\nEvening: \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nAfter Dinner: Informal fireside chat\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day 3: Tuesday\, July 14\, 2026\n				Morning: \n\nBreakfast\nKeynote with Alison Green Myers\nSmall Group Meeting #1 (retreat time for those not in meetings)\n\nWith Alex Villasante\nWith NoNieqa Ramos\n\n\n\nAfternoon: \n\nLunch\nFree writing time\nBreakout Sessions (Your choice of topic\, with themes of Fiction\, Nonfiction\, or Getting Started as a Professional Writer. [Session titles coming soon.]  Select one live\, with access to a recording of the session you miss.)\n\nWith Rob Costello\nWith Don Tate\n\n\n\nEvening: \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nAfter Dinner: Hands on Session with Steve Light\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day 4: Wednesday\, July 15\, 2026\n				Morning: \n\nBreakfast\nKeynote with Don Tate\nSmall Group Meeting #2 (retreat time for those not in meetings)\n\nWith Alex Villasante\nWith NoNieqa Ramos\n\n\n\nAfternoon: \n\nLunch\nFree writing time\nBreakout Sessions (Your choice of topic\, with themes of Fiction\, Nonfiction\, or Getting Started as a Professional Writer. [Session titles coming soon.]  Select one live\, with access to a recording of the session you miss.)\n\nwith S.K. Ali\nWith Alison Green Myers\n\n\n\nEvening: \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nFinal Mentor Meetings: Part One\nAfter Dinner: Open Mic on the Patio (weather permitting)\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day 5: Thursday\, July 16\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nFinal Mentor Meetings: Part Two (writing and packing time for those not in meetings)\n\nOptional closing writing prompt\n\n\nClosing keynote with Rob Costello\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch and farewells\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Previous Breakout Topics and Keynotes\n				Note: Breakout topics and keynotes are still being developed by faculty. Past Summer Camp session topics have included: \n\nConfessions of a Slow Writer\nChecking Boxes: Identity and Bringing Yourself to Your Stories\nEducator to Author: Creating Entry Points for Complex Topics\nDream\, Dare\, Do—Writing Takes Vision\, Courage\, and Energy\, Each to the Fullest\nCreating a Sense of Belonging in Your Stories for Kids\nTelling the Stories that Only YOU Can Tell\nWaking the Inner Voice: It’s Time\nPicture Book as an Act of Mischief: Bringing the Right Voice & the Right Play to a Picture Book\nPropulsive Language: Making Stories MOVE\nWriting is Re-writing: Maximizing Revision\nBeginnings & Endings: Pathways to the Reader’s Mind & Heart\, & Gaining Welcome Entrance\nLiterature\, Lessons\, and Life: How the Desire to Write One Good Sentence Pursued Me\nJUST Fiction: Writing Race\, Culture\, and Power in Children’s Books\nSubmission Basics: How to Start and End Your Query Letter\nThe Importance of the Page Turn\nWhat I Really Want to Write About: Finding Stories That Matter\nEducational Writing & Work-for-Hire (and everything in-between!)\nThe Poetry of Facts\nGathering Native Voices: WOW Readers with Meaningful Sentences\nand many\, many more!\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About Summer Camp for Writers and Illustrators\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\nGuidance and mentorship will be offered in two ways\, both through our faculty readers and in your facilitated peer group. Our feedback sessions offer you support\, and give you space to ask questions to help problem-solve\, brainstorm new ideas\, and work through challenges. You will receive comprehensive submission details closer to the start of Summer Camp. \n\nPicture book writers can submit one full picture book manuscript of up to 1\,200 words. This submission should also contain a cover letter (including where you are in the project\, your connection to the topic/theme\, and specific questions you have for your faculty reader).\nThose writing longer nonfiction or fiction can submit up to 2\,500 words from a current work in progress for their faculty reader. This submission should contain a cover letter (including where you are in the project\, a summary of the complete project arc if you know it\, your connection to the topic/theme\, and specific questions you have for your faculty reader).\nIllustrators can submit one full picture book manuscript (up to 1\,200 words)\, or a digital link to your portfolio of images\, or up to 5 pages of a longer piece of illustrated fiction or nonfiction (including a graphic novel). The submission should also include a cover letter including specific questions that you have for your faculty reader.)\nIf you are between projects or just starting out\, you can submit a book proposal with a short writing sample or a one-page list of ideas you are considering as a full-length project. This submission should also contain a cover letter.\nIn addition to submitting one of the above choices to your faculty reader\, you will submit pages for your peer groups. These submissions can be from the same work-in-progress given to your faculty reader\, or a new project altogether (please follow the same length guidelines and cover letter requests).\nSubmissions are due June 8\, 2026 to allow ample time for readers to take in your story.\n\nNOTE: What if I don’t have anything to submit at this time? Read our guide to learn more. You can also learn more about feedback and critique here. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat? \n				As an in-person event at our Retreat Center\, you’ll have a chance to step away from everyday life to experience the workshop. We build in breaks and independent time so you have space for your personal needs. While we encourage participation in all group events\, we know that as an adult learner you can decide if you need more time to yourself. Please let someone from our staff or faculty know if you plan to step away from group activities. \nBoyds Mills strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives\, including our faculty and staff. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Creating for children and teens is often referred to as a labor of love. It is rewarding work because your stories can have a big impact on the lives of children\, and it is hard work. This summer camp will offer support\, motivation\, reassurance\, and sense of community from fellow creators who share your passion. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event.
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/summer-camp-for-writers-and-illustrators-session-two/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Black Voices,Chapter Books and Early Readers,friend50,Graphic Novels,Illustration,In-Person,Latinx Voices,LGBTQIA+ Voices,Muslim Storytellers,Nonfiction,Novels,Novels in Verse,Picture Books,Poetry,Summer Camps,The Business of Publishing
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260728T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260730T190000
DTSTAMP:20260713T085242
CREATED:20260403T183834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260627T152557Z
UID:66632-1785265200-1785438000@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Chapter Books and Early Readers: Getting Started with Beginning Readers
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nA Two-Night Online Course \nBetween picture books and middle grade lies a magical\, momentum-building space where new readers fall in love with reading on their own. The books in this space can be fiction\, nonfiction\, highly illustrated\, and/or much more! In just two sessions\, you’ll explore how to begin your chapter book or early reader that builds reading confidence and offers an emotional hook (and humor) for independent readers. \nJoin Kaz Windness to begin your chapter book or early reader\, with a focused look at character and how to build on your own strengths in crafting a story. 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. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nTuesday\, July 28\, 2026 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)\nThursday\, July 30\, 2026 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)\nWebinar-style program with closed captioning available and limited interaction in the chat\nRecordings available until August 31\, 2026\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Join Kaz on Campus for A Chapter Book Retreat!\nAfter you’ve taken the course\, continue learning with Kaz\, Vicky Fang\, and special guest Anne Appert on-campus this fall. Join us for Early Readers and Chapter Books: A Creative Retreat! \n			\n				Learn More\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nPerhaps you remember the early days of your own reading journey? Or you work with kids who are falling in love with reading independently? The shelves might be filled with Frog and Toad or Worm & Caterpillar? With the I CAN READ series or Jada Jones? \nThis two-session chapter book workshop explores the magic behind those stories\, and how you can write your own chapter book or early reader. \nWith award-winning author/illustrator Kaz Windness guiding the way\, you will: \n\nGain clarity on where your idea fits—early reader\, highly illustrated chapter book\, transitional chapter book\, or a blend.\nTake a look at character development\, learning how to craft characters that newly independent readers connect with emotionally (and laugh with\, too).\nIdentify your unique storytelling strengths and explore how to build on them in this format.\nParticipate in hands-on writing exercises designed to help you start your story.\nand more!\n\nBy the end of our time together\, you won’t just understand the chapter book and early reader category\, you’ll have writing exercises to help you develop a character and gain confidence in your storytelling for this special age group of readers! \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are interested in writing for newly independent readers. This is a great course for beginners who want to understand more about chapter books and early readers as they explore this exciting time of independence for readers!\nYou are a picture book or middle grade author. Curious about writing chapter books or early readers? In this short course you’ll see the cross over between these audiences (and the differences).\nYou have an idea for a chapter book or early reader but aren’t sure where or how to start.\nYou’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 writing your chapter book or early reader.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Tentative Agenda \nAt 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. \nClick on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. All Times are Eastern Time. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Part 1: Tuesday\, July 28\, 2026 (7pm-8:15pm Eastern)\n				\nWhat is (and isn’t) an early reader?\nWhat is (and isn’t) a chapter book? (And do they all need to be series?)\nWhat can we learn from visual storytelling strategies for this age group?\nTry this: Remember a time when…\nQ&A\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Part 2: Thursday\, July 30\, 2026 (7pm-8:15pm EST)\n				\nWhat makes a stand out character for a chapter book or early reader?\n\nLet’s talk heart.\nLet’s talk humor.\n\n\nTry it: Review your “remember when” prompt and consider a character of heart and humor\nQ&A\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About This Online Chapter Book Workshop\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				\nThere will be limited interaction in the chat feature of the webinar-style program.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Will The Sessions Be Recorded? Can I Access the Recordings?\n				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 August 31\, 2026. \n\nPlease 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.\nPlease 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.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Online Workshop Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Independent readers have a special place in this mission where kids take reading into their own hands! \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants During the Workshop? \n				There will be limited interactivity within the chat. There will also be Q&A portions. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Are There Additional Resources I Can Access to Learn More? \n				Resources\n\nEarly Readers and Transitional Chapter Books: What Are They and Why Are They Important?\n4 Things to Consider Before Starting a Chapter Book Series\nUsing Humor to Elevate Your Picture Book\, Early Reader\, or Chapter Book\nPicture Book? Early Reader? Chapter Book? Where Does Your Story Fit? \n\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Kaz Windness\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/chapter-books-and-early-readers-getting-started-with-beginning-readers/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Beginners,Chapter Books and Early Readers,Online,Online Mini
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/chapter-course-graphic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260809
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260813
DTSTAMP:20260713T085242
CREATED:20251105T231859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T172251Z
UID:63683-1786233600-1786579199@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:The Writing Shorter Retreat: Why (and How) Less Can Be More
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Workshop and Retreat  \nIn the shifting publishing landscape\, it seems that many people are discussing the need for more “short” books. How can creatives write shorter without sacrificing the necessary elements of a good story? And how can learning to write short make you a stronger writer overall? \nJoin bestselling authors Hena Khan\, Christina Soontornvat\, Minh Lê\, and Ellen Oh for a retreat that focuses on creating propulsive\, vibrant stories where every page packs a punch. This award-winning faculty will share their knowledge of pacing\, plot\, concept generation\, how to write visually\, and much more. There will be ample time for you to try out their suggestions as you write and retreat on your own projects. \n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person retreat for writers at any stage in their creative journey who would like to learn more about writing shorter novels\, graphic novels\, novels in-verse\, and chapter and picture books. \nNo submission is required.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins at 5:30pm Eastern on Sunday\, August 9\, 2026.\nEnds after lunch on Wednesday\, August 12\, 2026.\n\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“This retreat was wonderful. There was so much positive energy\, and it really gave me the momentum to keep working toward my goals.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“It was\, hands down\, the best writing experience I’ve ever had. Too often educational encounters are competitive in nature. In this workshop I felt totally relaxed.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“The cottage was perfect\, the surroundings peaceful and relaxing. I was able to find a balance of work and play. So much thought and consideration has gone into providing an inspiring\, rejuvenating environment.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Retreat?\nDiscover how “writing short” might be exactly what your story needs. Join celebrated authors Hena Khan\, Christina Soontornvat\, Minh Lê\, and Ellen Oh to find out the how and why behind crafting stories that are “shorter” in length. Through craft-focused sessions on pacing\, plot\, revision\, and concept development\, you’ll gain practical tools to build a shorter narrative while staying true to your voice.  \nWhether you’re refining an existing manuscript or starting something new\, this retreat offers inspiration\, community\, and support. In addition\, ample time is set aside for you to write\, wander\, and retreat! \n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\n\nYou are a writer that’s trying to craft (or revise) a book with a short\, impactful narrative. \n\n\nYou want to learn more about plot and pacing from award-winning and celebrated authors! \n\n\nYou’d like a retreat where you can take time to write. While there will be presentations at this retreat\, there will also be ample time built for you to write and work on your own projects. \n\n\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time. Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nYou will receive details about what to bring to the retreat for your 1:1 consultation. There are no pre-retreat submissions.\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, research\, and polish your work during independent time.\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Sunday\, August 9\, 2026\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Expectations and goals for our time together\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Monday\, August 10\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #1: Get Shorty: Plot\, pacing\, and outlining techniques to streamline your manuscript from the beginning  \nRetreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\n1:1 Discussions (No Written Feedback)\nRetreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal gathering and sharing fireside (weather permitting)\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Tuesday\, August 11\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #2: How to Get Away with Murder-ing Your Darlings: Revising to make your stories shorter and stronger\n1:1 Discussions (continued)\nRetreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nPresentation #3: Better Left Unsaid: Unlocking the power of visual storytelling in graphic novels and picture books \nGenerative Writing & Writing Together\nRetreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nFireside sharing\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Wednesday\, August 12\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nPublishing Q & A\nGenerative writing prompt\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & farewells\n\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About This Novel Writing Retreat\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\n\nInformal feedback throughout the workshop via discussions and open sharing.\nA 1:1 consultation with faculty during the workshop. You may bring questions and ideas to discuss with your faculty. No written feedback will be offered.\n\nIf you’d like to learn more\, see our note on feedback in our programs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat? \n				As an in-person event at our Retreat Center\, you’ll have a chance to move away from everyday life to experience the retreat. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it is a Working Retreat that combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds Mills strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives\, including our faculty and staff. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Many readers are in search of novels that capture their attention and move quickly. This program will help you build (or revise) a tight narrative that is compelling for your reader. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Find Short Novel Resources?\n				Why Less Can Be More: A Q&A on Shorter Novels & Picture Books in Today’s Market\nFaculty Picks: Short Novel Bookshelf\nMiddle Grade is Dead and I Think That’s Good News\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Ellen Oh\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Hena Khan\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Christina Soontornvat\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Minh Lê\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/the-writing-shorter-retreat-why-and-how-less-can-be-more/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asian American Voices,friend50,Graphic Novels,In-Person,Muslim Storytellers,Novels,Novels in Verse,Picture Books
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/sold-out-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261020T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261022T190000
DTSTAMP:20260713T085242
CREATED:20260626T132647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T132653Z
UID:64625-1792522800-1792695600@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Worldbuilding 101 with Editor Emma D. Dryden
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nAs storytellers\, worlds are built with your imagination and hard work. Join editor Emma D. Dryden for an intensive look at worldbuilding from the inside\, out. There will be an abundance of writing exercises for you within the program\, and to try on your own! \nThis program is a great fit if you’re looking for a short course of two\, 75-minute sessions offering limited interaction with the community\, and loads of information. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nTuesday\, October 20 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)\nThursday\, October 22 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)\nWebinar-style program with closed captioning available and limited interaction in the chat.\nRecordings available until November 30\, 2026.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nAll stories—fantasy or reality\, picture book or novel—need to have well established worlds for our readers to enter. \nThis short course explores worldbuilding\, e.g. the physical\, psychological\, and emotional contexts for our stories and our characters\, so that we may bring them to life for our readers. \nJoin editor and author Emma D. Dryden to learn and discuss: \n\nInternal worldbuilding tips\nExternal worldbuilding tips\nHands-on worldbuilding writing exercises\nand more!\n\nAdditionally\, Emma will provide worldbuilding writing exercises for you to try on your own\, applicable to your work(s)-in-progress. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou want to learn more about building context and layers into your story.\nYou have a completed draft of a picture book or middle grade or young adult novel and are looking for ways to deepen the internal and external themes in the book.\nYou have taken your manuscript through at least one or two rounds of revision and are ready to deepen the world you’ve crafted.\nYou’re looking for something short\, sweet\, and smart! This is not a full workshop; they are short sessions meant to build your understanding of world-building in stories for kids and teens.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Tentative Agenda – Worldbuilding 101\nAt registration: You will receive a Zoom link to use each night of the course. Sessions will be recorded and shared with participants. \nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Part One: Tuesday\, October 20 (7pm-8:15pm Eastern)\n				\nWhat is world building and why is it important?\nDifferent methods of world building\nDetermining and interviewing our story-world\nMapping our story-world (with a drawing exercise)\nDefining the “rules” of our story-world (with a writing exercise)\nQ & A\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Part Two: Thursday\, October 22 (7pm-8:15pm Eastern)\n				\nWhat is internal world building and why is it important?\nDetermining and interviewing our characters\nMapping our main character’s emotional world (with a writing exercise)\nDefining the “rules” of our character’s world (with a writing exercise)\nQ & A\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About This Worldbuilding Workshop with Emma Dryden\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				\nNone is included in the course. There will be limited interaction in the chat feature of the webinar-style program.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				WILL THE SESSIONS BE RECORDED? CAN I ACCESS THE RECORDINGS?\n				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 November 30\, 2026. \n\nPlease 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.\nPlease 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.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Online Workshop Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Readers connect to your story best if they can engage in the world you’ve created. Emma D. Dryden’s world-building tips will help you shape the world of your story to be its very best! \n  \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				CAN I CONNECT WITH OTHER PARTICIPANTS DURING THE WORKSHOP?\n				\n\nThere will be limited interactivity within the chat. There may also be Q&A portions. \n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Are There Additional Resources I Can Access to Learn More?\n				\n5 Reasons to Revise Your Work\, Emma Dryden \n5 Common World Building Mistakes\, Alisa Alering \n6 Ways Research Can Enhance Your Fiction Writing\, Boyds Mills Faculty \n\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books Written or Edited by Emma D. Dryden\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/worldbuilding-101-with-editor-emma-d-dryden/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Chapter Books and Early Readers,Graphic Novels,Novels,Online,Online Mini,Picture Books
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/seize-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261023
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261027
DTSTAMP:20260713T085242
CREATED:20251105T231856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T155909Z
UID:63587-1792713600-1793059199@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Early Readers and Chapter Books: A Creative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Working Retreat \nSomewhere between the world of picture books and the complexity of full-length novels lives an exciting\, often overlooked creative space—where word count is limited but the storytelling possibilities are expansive. Books in this space fill in the blanks as level readers\, early readers\, chapter books\, with many including spot illustrations or graphic panels. \nThis retreat invites writers to explore that in-between world\, with authors and illustrators Kaz Windness and Vicky Fang\, along with special guest Anne Appert. \nBring an idea\, a draft\, or questions—this engaging retreat will help you understand the needs of this market and how to create with these transitional readers in mind. You’ll experience hands-on sessions\, generative exercises\, and plenty of support. You will also have ample time to retreat for your own writing\, illustrating\, and creating. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person retreat for writers and illustrators interested in learning more about publishing opportunities between picture books and novels.\n1:1 consultations will help you decide which ideas to grow\, and what comes next on your publication journey.\nNo submission required.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins at 5:30pm Eastern on Friday\, October 23\nEnds after lunch Monday\, October 26\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“There was an abundance of creative energy which fostered the formation of a creative community\, who supported each other in the pursuit of each individual’s love of storytelling.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Retreat?\nKids who are starting to read on their own need to find the books that meet them creatively\, inspirationally\, and more! It isn’t just about the level of reader they are\, it is about what makes them feel like a READER. Writing and illustrating for this reader is an important job and one that Kaz Windness and Vicky Fang take seriously (with a side of laugh-out-loud humor in their stories.) Join them to create books for these readers. In addition to sessions with Kaz and Vicky\, they will be joined by special guest\, author/illustrator Anne Appert. \nExpect energizing craft conversations\, generative prompts\, and ample creative time in a supportive\, collaborative environment. Together\, we’ll explore what it means to write for transitional readers—those just beginning to find themselves in stories—and how to craft books that meet them with joy\, depth\, humor\, and heart. \n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are an author or illustrator\, or an author/illustrator interested in leveled readers\, early readers\, and/or chapter books. This workshop will cover the needs of transitional readers and best approaches for designing your stories with that audience in mind.\nYou enjoy discussing stories with fellow creatives. Fellow attendees will be in discussion with you as you create and share your work.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of presentations\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow creatives over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, research\, and polish your work during independent time.\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Friday\, October 23\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Welcome & Discussion About Transitional Readers with Vicky Fang and Kaz Windness\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Saturday\, October 24\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #1 with Kaz Windness\nWriting/ Sketching exercise #1\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\n1:1 Consultations\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal gathering fireside (weather permitting)\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Sunday\, October 25\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #2 with Vicky Fang\nWriting/Sketching exercise #2\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nSpecial guest session\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal Roundtable Discussions/Sharing\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Monday\, October 26\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nWriting/Sketching Exercise #3\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nClosing and final reflections\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & farewells\n\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About This Early Reader / Chapter Book Writing Retreat\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\n\nEach author and/or illustrator will meet with a faculty mentor for a consultation of their stories. Consultations will include time to discuss where you are in your stories\, and ideas for moving forward with drafting\, revisions\, and/or submissions. No written feedback will be provided.\nThere will be informal\, roundtable discussions about changes you’ve made to your work-in-progress at the retreat.\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\n\nIf you’d like to learn more\, see our note on feedback in our programs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat? \n				As an in-person event at our Retreat Center\, you’ll have a chance to step away from everyday life to experience the retreat. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it is a Working Retreat that combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds Mills strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives\, including our faculty and staff. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. New readers immerse themselves in characters they love\, series they care about\, and reflections of their world. This retreat is meant to share with you how to craft stories for this age so that kids can love reading. \n  \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Find Resources for Writing Early Readers and Chapter Books?\n				You can find chapter books craft articles on our blog.\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Vicky Fang\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Kaz Windness\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Anne Appert\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/early-readers-and-chapter-books-a-creative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asian American Voices,Chapter Books and Early Readers,friend50,Illustration,In-Person,LGBTQIA+ Voices,Minds & Bodies,Specialty or Other,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/earlychapterbookswritingretreat-2.webp
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