Getting Started in Children's Publishing: Why You Should Join the SCBWI

Lately I've been getting emails about how to carve a niche in the children's book publishing industry. While I'm only just a few years into this exciting career (and an amazing one it is!), the first piece of advice that I feel I can confidently give is to join the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.

In 2010, I decided to join this organization after much proding from a couple of colleagues. At the time, the initial $80 seemed like my life savings. In hindsight, this was probably the best $80 I've ever spent.

Shortly after I joined, I received a bright yellow flyer in the mail. It informed me of a regional scholarship to help pay for attendance to the SCBWI Los Angeles conference (2010). I applied for this scholarship (barely got it to the post on time!). Honestly, I really never thought I had a chance.

I ended up winning the scholarship. 

I went to the conference with very little knowledge of the SCBWI. I entered the convention center anxiously...I knew absolutely no one there.

It wasn't before long that my heart and hopes were lifted to the moon and back with keynote speakers and workshops by the following children's illustrators and writers:

• Loren Long (illustrator)
• Ashley Bryan (illustrator)
• Amy Goldman Koss (writer)
• E.B. Lewis (illustrator)

I also made friends with Ashlee Fletcher and Kim Fleming, who are published illustrators around my age.

There are many roads that lead to "success". I equate being involved with the SCBWI community as the toll road that gets you to inspiring and helpful places faster. I cannot emphasize enough how positive and supportive of a community this organisation has been and continues to be in my life. 

Comments

[Stephen Mooser]

Hi Molly--thanks so much for taking the time to post such a wonderful tribute to the SCBWI. I, too, feel so lucky to have the SCBWI--the information I've gotten has been invaluable, but the friendships is the aspect that is truly priceless