NJSCBWI Rocks!

I had another informative and inspirational weekend at the annual New Jersey Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Conference in Princeton, NJ this past weekend.  Lots of opportunities to reconnect with writer friends and make new ones. Workshops on perfecting craft, Keynotes from Author/Illustrator, DENISE FLEMING, Agent/Author JOHN CUSICK, and a report on the state of children’s publishing.  (doing well, we’re happy to hear). Plus lots of time for sharing success stories.  An exhausting but always motivating event.  Here are some highlights in photos.

With Annie Silvestro and Kim Pfennigwerth

Signing books with Charlotte Bennardo, fellow KIdLIt Author’s Club author.

Musician and author Jonathan Sprout

The LRA crew: Laurie Wallmark, me, Agent Liza Fleissig, Robin Newman

With Jennifer Reinharz

Hanging out on Friday eve. with Jody Staton, Laurie Degman, Corey Rosen-Schwartz, and Robin Newman.

Finally meeting blogging friend Katey Howes.

Another new friend Katya.

Books for sale…

With Marilyn Ostermiller

The LRA Club

Another awesome weekend of writing and social connection.  Thanks NJSCBWI.  You Rock!

With Eileen Holden

Some Rock Stars of Kid Lit

Last weekend I was fortunate to attend the NJSCBWI Conference in Princeton, NJ. Not only was it full of interesting and inspiring workshops and presentations, I also got to meet many of the best writers in the field of Children’s Literature. Illustrator Dan Yaccarino spoke to us on Saturday with a message titled YES, and how when opportunity presents itself, don’t think of how you won’t be able to do something, but rather embrace the learning and say “Yes…I can do it”. Kate DiCamillo gave the keynote address on Sunday and awed all of us with her eloquence and generosity.

There were also many excellent agents, editors, and writers who presented workshops, gave critiques and just made us writers feel good to be in their midst.

Thanks to all the organizers of the annual event. Kathy Temean and her crew outdid themselves yet again. New Jersey Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Rocks!  For those who missed this wonderful event, check out the website and see what else is going on: newjerseyscbwi.com

With Agent John Cusick

Meeting my agents for the first time: Liza Fleissig & Ginger Harris

With Newbery Winner Kate DiCamillo

Ame Dykeman and Dan Yaccarino signing their book BOY + BOT