SCBWI Iowa Halloweekend Conference Intensive Only
Oct 31, 2025
West Des Moines Marriott, 1250 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Too scared to join us for the full conference? Attend only Friday of the Halloweekend Conference for a two hour craft intensive with one of our esteemed faculty! Learn about Picture Book Structure with Pat Zietlow Miller, Characters with Vicky Weber, or Level-Up your writing with Maria Dismondy.
Pricing
2-hour session on Friday, October 31 from 1:30 - 3:30pm.
Member Price: $50
Non-Member Price: $70
Friday Intensives - SCBWI Iowa Halloweekend Conference
It All Starts With Structure: Finding the Perfect Framework for Your Picture Book with Pat Zietlow Miller
There are SO MANY ways to structure a picture book. And, choosing the right one is as important to your story’s success as choosing the right design when you’re building a house. I’ll share common picture book structures, tons of book recommendations and tips for making your structure sing.
Characters That Drive Plot Workshop with Vicky Weber
Great plots become extraordinary when driven by characters who feel real and whose choices shape the action. This interactive masterclass will show you how to integrate character depth with plot development, creating stakes that resonate and stories that captivate—no matter your genre.
Taking Writer's Craft to the Next Level with Maria Dismondy
This is an opportunity for writers to go beyond basic craft techniques. Break through the current noise in the literacy world with out of the box writing practices while still maintaining a timeless piece of work. This session will take a look at how accomplished authors, writers and editors are using craft in award winning picture books today. Writers will have a chance to work on some of the ideas presented.