This past weekend I jumped in the car with my writing bestie to drive alllllll they way across the state to an SCBWI event. It was my first in person writing event in over two years and we were so excited. Why? Because there is quite possibly nothing better than hanging out with people who love what you love. And these people, my SCBWI people, are some of the best.

Whenever I attend an SCBWI event, I never fail to learn something new, be inspired and feel the love of the kid lit community. This event was no exception. Case in point? A young college grad, brand new to “the society” as he called it, walked in nervous, yet DOING THE THING (aka: showing up). He was instantly greeted, welcomed, and ushered directly to a veteran in his niche area who kindly chatted with him, answered his questions, and built him up. Seriously, where else in the world does this happen??!?!?

So today’s blog post is dedicated to SCBWI… what it is, what it can do for you and why (if you are a kid lit creator) you absolutely need to be a part of it.

Let’s start with the basics.

What is SCBWI?

I have been a member of this organization since way back in 2016 and can tell you I have learned more from it and the people I have met there than anywhere else in the publishing world. I have also made some amazing friends. But more than knowledge and friends, this organization can offer you professional development, marketing and promotion, print/online resources, opportunities for awards and grants, as well as discounts. You can learn more about these offerings here.

One of my favorite parts about SCBWI are their events, both in person and in the form of online webinars. In the past month I have gone to one in-person event to hear a presentation from an editor at Harper Collins, a fabulous first pages webinar and also a meet the agents webinar. It is through these events that I get to meet (and learn from) the people who are in the room where it happens. Many people meet their agents and editors at these events (and get to skip the slush pile)!

I wrote all about one of my first SCBWI events in this 2018 blog post after attending a great three day conference.

Alright, have I convinced you?

If yes, click here to learn how to become a member. I hope I’ll see you at one of our events soon!

Happy writing and illustrating my word nerd friends!

~ Amanda

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