work, I’ve see many promising manuscripts and portfolios that are almost ready. So, several years ago, I began holding
a Children’s Book Boot Camp in my Brooklyn loft.
Boot Camp is held in 3 sessions over a 5-week period. Applications are available to anyone interested but workshops
are limited to ten participants to insure that there is ample time for each person to get thorough feedback on his or her project.
Better still, the small size of the group allows for an intimate experience with the guest art director and editor.
I take into account the styles of art and text submitted with the applications when deciding which publishers to invite. Only if
there are at least 7 book projects that might appeal to editors and art directors I know will the Boot Camp be held.
The
editors and art directors who participate are open to new talent
and in a position to acquire projects. Previously, guests
have come from HarperCollins,
Henry Holt, Hyperion, Penguin/Dial, Scholastic and Simon &
Schuster.
The workshop requires a real
commitment of time and work. We review and critique projects at
the first meeting. Participants
are expected to work over the next
two weeks, taking into account constructive feedback received.
During the second session, an art
director will review your project. Then, after two more weeks
of polishing your work, an editor will
visit the last session for a final
review. Aside from receiving invaluable advice, one-on-one
contact with a major publisher
offers a unique opportunity to put
your work in the hands of otherwise hard to reach editors and
art directors seeking new talent.
Throughout the 5 weeks, assistance
via phone or email is always available.
There is no guarantee that a project will be placed.
I have helped many illustrators
and witers to get published but I am not an agent nor is there
any fee if your work is placed with
one of the publishers. If you’re
ready for that next step, apply.