Course Title: 399435: Picture Book I WRITING (if you’d like to take my class, be sure to enroll with Kim Tomsic)

October 2nd, 2024-December 11 (Wednesdays)  4:00 pm to 7:00 pm (PT) via live Zoom meetings

Created for the beginning writer, this course explores the various genres within the category of children’s picture books.

We will explore craft elements such as plot, pace, page turns, point of view, structure, rhythm, word choice, voice, and more so you can practice the skills that go into writing a picture book. We will scrutinize various types of picture books (i.e. fiction, nonfiction, concept books, biographies, board books, classics, etc.). Furthermore, we will build a supportive learning environment. Not only will you draft and polish manuscripts, but you will also learn how to use your knowledge of craft to conduct respectful, effective, and authentic peer critiques. Learning how to successfully give and receive feedback will not only help you revise and stretch your writing skills, but these skills will also prepare you to work with an editor. By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Write at least one complete picture book with page-turning intrigue and thoughtful structure
• Enhance Craft & Revision Skills
• Conduct Peer Critiques
• Utilize Industry Expertise
• Learn How to Query Agents
• Understand How to Work with an Editor

Venue: UCLA Writing Program (3 credits)

To enroll or for more information about the UCLA Writing Program, please visit UCLA Writing Program.

FALL IN LOVE WITH READING: Students at Rice Elementary will receive a presentation on The Truth About 5th Grade followed by a conversation on “perspectives” plus Q&A, games & prizes, and a fun-filled poetry activity (haikus and acrostics)!

Picture Book III is a workshop-style class used to discuss and polish your work-in-progress.

One evening per week (Wednesdays) from January 8, 2025- March 12, 2025 4:00 pm – 7 pm (PT) live via Zoom

This advanced-level workshop is for fiction or nonfiction picture book writers who have completed one or more picture book manuscripts and feel ready to revise, polish, and pursue publication. Students will submit their work and participate in safe, instructor-led feedback clinics. You will stretch your skills as you pay particular attention to character, plot, pace, POV, poetic devices, story beats, goals, stakes, voice, word choice, page turns, interstitials, theme, heart, dialogue, mood, space for the illustrator, performance quality, overall style, and more. The goal of this course is to complete, polish, and revise a picture book manuscript so that you are ready for querying. For the first class, each student should prepare a synopsis and/or brief outline of their manuscript.

For details and enrollment, contact UCLA Extensions.

Students across the state of California chose The Elephants Come Home: A True Story of Seven Elephants, Two People, and One Extraordinary Friendship to the 2024 California Young Readers Medalist in the category of picture books for older readers!