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Skillshare

Picture Books I: Write Your Story

via Skillshare

Overview

Picture books are weird! Picture books are hilarious! Ideas for picture books are all around you!

This illuminating class, taught by Christine Fleming, author/illustrator at Might Could Studios, is the first of a two-part series on how to create your own children’s picture book: Picture Books I: Write Your Story and Picture Books II: Illustrate your Story.

In this 50-minute class, you’ll learn Christine’s step-by-step process for molding a vague story idea in your head into a sparkling picture book manuscript. You’ll begin by learning what exactly a picture book is, as well as its purpose, inspirational history, and anatomy.

With all that knowledge in your brain, you'll dive into the nitty-gritty of writing your story. Christine will explain how she finds her own story ideas, and how to get that first cringe-worthy draft out of your head and onto the page. Then she’ll take you through her revision process describing the use of plot structure, point of view, prose, rhythm patterns, poetry techniques, and character development. And finally, Christine will chat about common plot issues, what makes an enticing opening and satisfying ending, how to pick a title, reduce word count, and make a writer's dummy to solve pacing issues.

Plus, there's a bonus locked layer of content explaining the step-by-step process to submit your manuscript to publishers! This booklet is available to enrolled students as soon as they post their process work in the Project Gallery. If you’ve ever dreamed of having your book published, this is the information you need on how to properly submit to publishers and get your story in front of the right people.

This class is perfect for illustrators, designers, writers, and everyone who has ever thought to themselves, “Now that would make a great picture book.” No prior knowledge of writing, picture books, or publishing is required! By the end, you’ll have everything you need (and the inspirational push!) to write an impeccable picture book.

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WANT MORE?

Check out my other Skillshare classes here!

You can also see more about me and my work on my website: might-could.com.

And you can sign up for my email list for weekly essays on creativity and artmaking!

Thanks so much! <3

 

Syllabus

  • Trailer
  • Intro to Picture Books
  • A Brief History of Picture Books
  • Structure of a Picture Book
  • Coming Up with Your Story Idea
  • Plot Structure and Point of View
  • Prose and Character Development
  • Troubleshooting Plot Issues
  • Writing a Good Opening and Ending
  • Cutting Your Word Count
  • Making a Writer's Dummy
  • My 10 Step Process to PB Writing

Taught by

Christine Nishiyama

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