Supportive Organisations
For support from fellow writers…
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
Being part of a local writers’ group, who meet regularly to discuss and share work, is a really great way to gain inspiration, encouragement and kind feedback. If you can join a group that specialises in children’s book writing, so much the better. Find out where they are through your library, or try the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) – http://www.scbwi.org/. They organise local children’s writers’ networks and can put you in touch with other members and groups in your area. They also organise events and competitions for authors and illustrators.
For sound, comprehensive information on children’s books, and tips and encouragement for writing…
Booktrust UK is a vital organisation dedicated to promoting reading and to raising awareness of the importance of books at all stages in a person’s life. Their website is a treasure trove of inspiration, encouragement and support – not just for wide-ranging information about how children engage with books, but for the many resources they offer writers. Children’s writer in residence (currently Chris Riddell) contributes a fascinating blog; there is a priceless archive of writing tips from authors; and lists of competitions, prizes and publications which welcome new writers.
For published authors: a strong ‘writers’ union’ and a place to commune with other authors…
The Society of Authors. This venerable and respected society has supported the rights of authors for over a hundred years. It now contains within it the Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group, which organises regular meetings and talks, and disseminates useful information by email.
http://www.societyofauthors.org/
To meet people from every corner of the children’s book world…
The Children’s Book Circle is a lively and thriving group which draws together the publishing industry, agents, librarians, authors, illustrators and booksellers…all united by a passion for children’s books. Members meet regularly in London for talks and events, which will undoubtedly help you broaden your knowledge of the industry, as well as develop interesting friendships and contacts.
www.childrensbookcircle.org.uk
Sharing resources and supporting writers in Scotland…
The Scottish Book Trust does everything that the UK Booktrust does, actively bringing books and people together in Scotland, and supporting Scottish creativity. They deliver Book Week Scotland, organise resources, blogs and booklists for writers and educators, and recognise and reward new and existing writing talent with several awards. Their website is well worth a visit.
http://www.scottishbooktrust.com/
For Welsh writers – a wealth of encouragement…
Literature Wales is a vibrant organisation that promotes and develops literature in Wales, organising festivals, sponsoring competitions and events and offering advice, support and bursaries to Welsh writers. They also organise acclaimed creative writing courses at Tŷ Newydd in Gwynedd – including some aimed specifically at children’s writers in 2015.
Inspiration and involvement for Irish writers and illustrators…
Children’s Books Ireland is Ireland’s national children’s books organisation, existing to engage young people with books and to act as a core resource centre for anyone with an interest in books for children. They publish a monthly magazine dedicated to children’s books and organise an online resource hub, events, awards and the Irish National Children’s Literature Festival.
And finally – somewhere to go that will lift your heart…
Seven Stories – the National Centre for Children’s Books
Based in Newcastle, and occupying all seven storeys of a renovated warehouse, this truly inspiring and welcoming centre exists to promote, archive and celebrate children’s books. By imaginatively selecting original artwork and manuscripts, they create exhibitions, events and learning programmes. The centre also acts as custodian of many important manuscripts and pieces of original artwork by people such as Enid Blyton, Judith Kerr and Philip Pullman.