Big Sur Children’s Writers Workshops
Launched in 1998, this event brings top tier professionals together with both beginner and seasoned writers to mingle and discuss their works through an all-inclusive weekend.
December 3-5, 2021. Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, Monterey, Calif. $1,200 includes entire workshop, hotel, and all meals except for breakfast. Because it is a more intimate workshop, it is different from most conferences. “the ratio of writers/attendees to mentors is 5:1; attendees get a lot of attention and interact with the mentors throughout the weekend, especially in the small critique groups that meet twice over the course of the event,” 80-100. Mentors include editors, literary agents, published authors, and illustrators, such as Esther Cajahuaringa (Hachette); Kait Feldmann (HMH, now HarperCollins); Carter Hasegawa (Candlewick); Melissa Manlove (Chronicle Books); Yolanda Scott (Charlesbridge); Mekisha Telfer (Roaring Brook Press); David Elliott; Tamara Ireland Stone; Mitali Perkins; and many authors, illustrators, and agents from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency. the weekend consists of two small critique groups that meet twice and general sessions with the editors and agents for information. It is designed to be a personalized workshop where writers can focus on their works to polish them for submissions. “It’s best for those who are getting close to having finished manuscripts ready to show agents and editors—perfect for writers who have some roadblocks or issues and need clarity to complete polished material,” says Brown. Be prepared to share and contribute in the critique groups. Some of the best ideas come from other attendees. the location is on a golf course, near the beach and the Monterey Aquarium. It’s also just 30 minutes from the redwoods of Big Sur and the Henry Miller Memorial Library. .
