How to Get Published in Children's Fiction

This is just a heads up about a presentation I'm doing aimed at anyone with the burning desire to get published. I will talk about the lessons I've learned in the journey to becoming a published author and I'll be giving top tips on how to maximise your chances of getting published.


10am to 11am
Friday
11 April 2014
London Metropolitan Archives
Spring Arts Festival


Here's a map to the LMA:



And here's a blurb about my talk!

Written a children’s book but not sure how to get it published?
It took Candy Gourlay nine years of rejection to get published -- but it was worth it. Her first novel Tall Story won the Crystal Kite Prize for Europe, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and shortlisted for 13 prizes including the Waterstones Prize, the Blue Peter and the Branford Boase. Come and find out about Candy's long journey to publication and the many lessons she learned along the way. Candy will give you top tips on how to survive an adventure that is definitely not for the faint hearted. Meanwhile, Nicky Potter, publicist at Frances Lincoln, will give you an insight into the publishers point of view. Take the opportunity ask Candy and Nicky your burning questions.

FREE ENTRY FOR SCBWI MEMBERS

I've negotiated free entry to most of the events for members of SCBWI (Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators). The other sessions include readings, a workshop on writing for the web, authors and sessions for children. Note: Not included in the freebee are the Dragon's Ink Workshop which is £10 and the craft workshop on how to make your own homemade book which costs £15. For £15 you can also book a half hour session with a literary agent. I think there're two slots still available.

I am told the London Metropolitan Archives is an amazing place - it stores more than 100km of historical documents, letters, maps and photographs. The first document archived was written in 1067 just after the Norman invasion, a charter from William the Conqueror outlining how he was going to deal with his new possession. You can watch a video about the archive here. Sounds like it's a must-go for authors!

IMPORTANT: Please do not book on Eventbrite if you plan to take advantage of the Festival deal for SCBWI. Turn up with your SCBWI member's card and you will be welcome to attend an event as long as there are spaces. If you'd like to pre-book your place to make sure, email Maureen Roberts.