Wednesday, May 26, 2010

SCBWI/OC Schmooze & Critique, 5/24


Thanks so much to the gang for coming out to Katie Wheeler Library in Irvine for our last schmooze until the Fall!

We had a great group dynamic--full of support, curiosity and motivation. After chatting a bit about our Agent's Day on 5/15 (and reviewing our wonderful agents: Rebecca Sherman from Writer's House, Mary Kole from Andrea Brown, Kevan Lyon from Marsal & Lyon, and Brenda Bowen from Sanford J. Greenburger & Associates,) we discussed conference expectations and the importance of using these experiences to focus on improving your craft. Sometimes, as we all know, we need to hear things a million times before they stick. Take precious workshop and conference hours to truly absorb what these experts are saying. Incorporate these elements into your work, and watch your writing bloom! Always walk out that conference door, (contact made or not) knowing that you've become a better writer.

Our round-robin critique was a wonderful success. From hilarious picture books to mysterious, young adult novels, our OC writing and editing talent shined.

Some topics of interest that emerged in our writing:

1.) Tell the story first, then weave theme in ever so lightly.
2.) Treat setting as a living and breathing character
3.) Get us into the problem/need sooner: be aware of your character arc.
4.) Brainstorm, and try writing your manuscript in various formats as writing exercises until you find the right fit.
5.) Continue with character development--watch out for emotionally distant writing.
6.) Keep tone fluid
7.) Don't waste world-building opportunities.
8.) Look for ways to broaden the market/appeal of your manuscript.
9.) Make your ordinary writing extraordinary.

On Agent's Day, we heard these words of wisdom from Mary Kole (Andrea Brown Literary Agency:) "It takes a village to raise a book."

And it's true.

I know I'm thankful for our village.

Until September (or at SCBWI Nationals in August...)

Be brave. Persistent. Relentless.

And write what makes you happy.

Lori

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Portfolio Review at June 12 Schmooze in OC

Hello Illustrators,

Let's Schmooze in OC!
Saturday, June 12
10:30 am -12:30pm
at the home/studio of Marilyn Scott-Waters

Portfolio Review
If you would like input from your fellow illustrators about your portfolio, or have questions about how to assemble one, then this is the meeting to attend. Bring your portfolio or any illustration pieces, rough or complete, to receive comment. Let's get ready! The SCBWI Summer Conference is just around the corner.

Contact me if you need directions or have any questions.

See you there!

Veronica Walsh
green2cats@yahoo.com

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Westside Illustrators May Schmooze


Please join us...8-)
The Westside Illustrators Schmooze
Monday evening, May 17th

7pm - 9pm
11624 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064


It's 'portfolio night'...

so dust it off, fix it up, get started,
complete it, or hell... just come without it!

1) We will 'round robin' our portfolios for some honest
feedback from our peers.
Critiques are both private and anonymous...
a most valuable assessment of our work.
(Please bring post-its, scissors, & pen or pencil)

2) ALSO...This is our last formal meeting of the year.
Let's talk about anything we missed or
review things we we'd like to talk more about!

Looking forward to seeing you all!
xoxo...suzy:-D


Come prepared to participate, ask questions and be inspired!
Let's enjoy a fun creative evening together & move forward in our common pursuit
of making a contribution to the world of children's illustration and literature!


RSVP???... YES...if you can... SoozyEB@aol.com

WHERE???... 11624 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
This is a large gray building with ivy & bamboo on the facade.
The sign near the door reads - "Alliance Francaise."

DIRECTIONS???... http://maps.google.com/maps?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rls=GGLR,GGLR:2006-05,GGLR:en&q=11624+W.+Pico+BLvd,+Los+Angeles,+CA+90064&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title

PARKING???
... Street parking only. You don't have to feed meters after 6pm. Do NOT park in the electrical warehouse parking lot next door OR the parking lot behind the building on the corner of Federal Ave. You will be towed...FAST.

Looking forward to seeing you all!
xoxo...suzy
:-D
cell... 818 389 1950

If you wish to be removed from this email list...just let me know.

come visit me at... http://www.SuzyEngelmanBlock.com