Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat ~ 2026
Mar 13, 2026 - Mar 15, 2026
295 Hale Street, Beverly, MA
The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is where children’s book writers and illustrators, both new to the industry and award-winning and multi-published, come to improve their craft, connect with colleagues, and interact with industry professions. The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is a quaint retreat started over years ago by Linda Crotta Brennan and Laurie Murphy, later run by Lynda Mullaly Hunt for 13 years. Next March 2026 the legacy continues! We will feature five outstanding faculty including three editors and two agents. This retreat is known for its culture of creativity, camaraderie, and MAGIC! We can't wait to see you!
WHISPERING PINES WRITERS' RETREAT ~ 2026
What is the Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat?
February 1995, Linda Crotta Brennan and Laurie Smith Murphy teamed up to organize a get-away for writers to have time together and to work on their craft. The first year started with five unpublished writers and has grown to include presentations and manuscript critiques by published authors, agents, and editors from prestigious agencies and publishing houses.
30 years later...
The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is a weekend packed with presentations, mentor meetings, meals, and magic! In an intimate setting you will have the opportunity to interact and engage with five industry professionals as well as other children's book authors and illustrators. Each participant gets a one-on-one with a faculty mentor who has pre-read your picture book, dummy, or up to 15 pages your novel.
Application Window will open December 4, 2025 at 8:30am ET and close December 5, 2025 at 3:00pm.
After applying, you will be contacted by the director via email of your status.
Who is this retreat for?
The Whispering Pines Writers’ Retreat is for serious children’s book creators,
from beginner to advanced, pre-published (aspiring to be published) to published,
debut to multi-published, agented and unagented – children’s book writers and illustrators.
Five Magnificent Mentors - To Be Revealed December 1st!
Mentor 1 - Natalia Vázquez Torres, Assistant Editor, Charlesbridge
Natalia Vázquez Torres is a Latine assistant editor at Charlesbridge, where she works on all sorts of children’s books in English and Spanish, such as Far, Far Away by Molly Beth Griffin; Turtles Heading Home! by Liza Ketchum, Phyllis Root, and Jacqueline Briggs Martin; and Ways Papi Says I Love You by Delia Ruiz. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Emerson College and resides in Massachusetts with her husband and daughter.
Sean McCarthy, Literary Agent, Sean McCarthy Literary Agency
Sean McCarthy founded his own full-service literary agency in 2013 after working at Overlook Press and Sheldon Fogelman Agency and represents authors and illustrators across all age ranges in children’s publishing. His clients include Hyewon Yum, Mark Fearing, Dana Wulfekotte, Ariel Bernstein, Margaret Chiu Greanias, and Junghwa Park, among others. Sean graduated from Macalester College with a degree in English-Creative Writing and is grateful that he no longer has to spend his winters in Minnesota. He currently lives in Westchester County with his wife and two pet rabbits (who aren’t much help when it comes to reading manuscripts, though they are excellent at shredding them).
Sophie Sheumaker, Literary Assistant, Bookends
Sophie Sheumaker is the Global Rights assistant and literary assistant to Naomi Davis at BookEnds. She studied writing, literature, and publishing at Emerson College, graduating in the spring of 2023. In 2024 she began slowly but surely building up her kidlit list, primarily through referral, and in spring of 2025 she opened up her QueryManager account and began actively building her list of authors and illustrators. Now, she represents clients ranging from illustrators and picture book authors to writers of adult fantasy and more.
Juan Botero, Assistant Editor and Coordinator of Spanish Language Publishing, Candlewick Press
I came into publishing after spending most of my childhood, teenage years, and early adulthood hiding behind library shelves. There was a brief and misguided attempt at becoming a scientist, but one too many classes with numbers brought me to my senses. Sinc this bio should probably have a little about who I am as a professional (and not just personal background), I am an Assistant Editor and the Coordinator of Spanish Language Publishing at Candlewick Press. I have assisted on titles by authors like Megan McDonald, Kekla Magoon, and Juana Martinez-Neal, as well as books like The Princess in Black series. I am also the US editor for creators like Atinuke and for the Unicornia series. In the past year, I started acquiring books for my own list. This includes a chapter book series by New York Times Bestselling author Julie Kagawa and a middle grade graphic novel by Newbery honoree Rajani LaRocca.
Alex Wolfe, Editor, Penguin Workshop
Alex Wolfe is an editor at Penguin Workshop, where she works on picture books, middle grade, graphic novels, young adult, and everything in between. She is particularly passionate about fiction that emphasizes humor, faced-paced plotting, distinctive artwork, and anything weird, whimsical, and absurd! Alex is also the author of Parks and Recreation Mad Libs and Roald Dahl: Phizz-Whizzing Christmas Book. When not editing, you can usually find her listening to a comedy podcast, watching musical theater, or drinking copious amounts of coffee.
Where is it?
The Wylie Inn & Conference Center at Endicott College - 295 Hale Street, Beverly, Massachusetts
The Wylie Inn & Conference Center at Endicott College, Beverly, Massachusetts
Application
The Application Window is open from Dec. 4th at 8:30am to Dec. 5th at 3:00pm.
Fill out the Application Form to apply. APPLY HERE:
Applying DOES NOT guarantee admission to the Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat.
After you submit your application, you will be notified by email if you are accepted or placed on the waitlist.
There is very limited space for this retreat.
If you are offered a spot, you will receive a payment link.
After payment is received you will be contacted via email with further details.
Please note that you will have 48 hours to complete payment.
If payment is not received within that time, the spot will be released to the next person on the waitlist.
Accommodations
Each attendee will have their very own room! (There are no doubles available at this time.)
Photo Gallery
Tuition
What is included:
^ Written feedback and 20-minute one-on-one meeting with a mentor, who has pre-read your picture book, dummy, or up to 15 pages of your novel
^ Five presentations conducted by the industry professional mentors (3 editors, 2 agents)
^ Single accommodations for Friday & Saturday. (No doubles are available at this time)
^ All meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners) - and coffee!
^ Other exciting retreat activities
^ Most likely a magical experience
Member: $1010.00
Non-Member: $1090.00
Testimonials
Lynda Mullaly Hunt, NYT bestselling and award-winning author of FISH IN A TREE, ONE FOR THE MURPHYS, & SHOUTING AT THE RAIN
"The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is magical. You'll not find a more inspiring location, but it's the people that make it truly inspiring and the kind of writers' event that can raise your writing to the next level. My career began at this retreat and, no matter how busy my schedule becomes, I make it a priority to return each year."
Anika Denise, award winning author, PLANTING STORIES, PHENOMENAL AOC, A GIRL NAMED ROSITA, THE LOVE LETTER, & more
"Oh, Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat , you bewitch and ensorce me with your beautiful setting, amazing mentors, delicious desserts and roaring fires! Seriously, if there is a magic recipe for perfectly inspiring, blissful writers' retreat weekends—WPWR has it. You really MUST go."
Linda Crotta Brennan, Co-Founder of Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat, author of WHEN RIVERS BURNED: THE EARTH DAY STORY, MARSHMALLOW KISSES & more
"Laurie Murphy and I founded the Whispering Pines Writers’ Retreat over twenty years ago, hoping to create a program where writers could receive professional feedback in a rustic, intimate setting. I still return every year for the insightful comments (on my manuscript), workshops and to nurture professional connections which have furthered my career. But more precious than any of that are the lifelong friendships I’ve forged there. The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is a mystical, magical place, buoyant with the joy of creating."
Rajani LaRocca, Newbery Honor winner of RED, WHITE, AND WHOLE (Also the author of; MIDSUMMER'S MAYHEM, SEVEN GOLDEN RINGS, WHERE THREE OCEANS MEET, & MORE!
"The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is an absolute joy, a place to bond with fellow writers and industry professionals while improving your craft. I can't wait to return!"
Laurie Murphy, MG writer, Co-Founder of Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat
"The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is a writer’s paradise. It’s a weekend filled with inspiring talks, one-on-one critiques, and networking in a casual setting. In the midst of pine trees surrounding a lovely pond, the spot is ideal for rejuvenating the creative muses. From the inviting fieldstone fireplace in the living room, to the outdoor campfire for late night s’mores, this popular retreat continues to attract writers, editors, and agents alike. If you’re looking for a unique experience with supportive mentors, fabulous food, and an idyllic setting, you need to look no further than the Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat."
Erin Dionne, author, SHIVER BY THE SEA SERIES, LIGHTS, CAMERA, DISASTER, SECRETS OF A FANGIRL, BALLETBALL, MOXIE AND AND THE ART OF RULE BREAKING, & more
"Due to Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat's small size and intensive format, participants have a true opportunity for growth in their creative lives. No one leaves WPWR unchanged."
Tricia Lin, editor, Simon & Schuster
“The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is a delight. Everyone is warm, kind, and receptive. The environment could not be more beautiful or peaceful, and is wonderfully conducive to spurring creativity. And of course, the food is pretty spectacular.”
Brent Taylor, agent, TriadaUS Literary Agency
“The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is pure magic. From the moment I arrived, I felt inspired, empowered, and energized. There are just no writing conferences as intimate as this."
Cancellation/Refund Policy
Given the limited spaces available for this event, no refunds can be provided for cancellations unless a replacement can be secured. If the spot can be filled, the initial registrant will receive a refund (minus a $60.00 processing fees). No refunds two months prior to the event because payment is already promised to the faculty.
Schedule
The schedule looks something like this:
Friday:
Afternoon Check-in
Mix & Mingle
Dinner
Evening Activities
Saturday:
Breakfast
3 Morning Presentations
Lunch
Mentor Meetings
Mix & Mingle
Dinner
Evening Activities
Sunday:
Breakfast
2 Morning Presentations
Lunch
Ask the Experts informal Q&A
Farewell
(Schedule subject to change)
Retreat Coordinators
Pam Vaughan, Director
Pam is the author of picture books, Tenacious Won't Give Up, illustrated by Leanne Hatch (Knopf BFYR) & Missy Wants a Mammoth, illustrated by Ariel Landy (Holiday House/Pixel+Ink). She is also an NE-SCBWI co-Assistant Regional Advisor. Pam was a three-sport athlete at Brandeis University (soccer, basketball, softball) and holds a master's degree in business management. She has coached soccer, basketball, ski racing, softball, ice hockey and worked as a team consultant presenting workshops on leadership, mental toughness, and team building. She lives with her family on a cul-de-sac, by a pond in central MA amongst turkeys, turtles, deer, and owls and loves playing ice hockey. Visit her online at www.pamvaughanauthor.com / @pamvau Pronouns - she/her
Julia Boyce, Assistant Director
Julia Boyce writes picture books through young adult novels. She has published an early reader and has also been published in Reader's Digest. Julia lives on a farm in northwestern Rhode Island with her family, an eighteen-year-old cow named Oreo, a faithful Labrador/Golden retriever cross, and a menagerie of other farm animals and pets. Much of her writing is inspired by this lifestyle, as well as her current job working with Cynomolgus Macaques. Julia can often be found writing in the barn or out in the cow fields. Find her online @farm_Julia. Pronouns - she/her
A Message from Pam & Julia
The Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat is difficult to explain, much better to experience!! Come see for yourself. We are SO excited to see you in March!! For more information – www.whisperingpinesretreat.org
If you miss the application window – definitely sign up for the waitlist: 2026 WPWR WAITLIST
Please reach out with any questions – [email protected]