SCBWI California: Central Coastal

The Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators Central-Coastal California Region provides programs and services for Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Kern counties. We are a warm and welcoming group focused on craft and professional support for children's book writers, illustrators, and translators. Programs include an annual Writers’ Day and Writers’ Retreat, Illustrators events, along with numerous workshops, critique opportunities, and free mingle events in each county for networking.

Join us for CenCal's Writers & Illustrators Day on Saturday 9/20/25 at the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District Auditorium, 1605 E. Burnley St. in Camarillo (same location as last year). *** Our theme this year is Catch the Creative Wave! Our logo artwork is courtesy of local CenCal artist Gela Kalaitzidis. You’ll hear a wave of great information from agents Sally Kim of Andrea Brown Literary and Jim Averbeck of East West Literary as well as Kristie Choi, editor at Simon and Schuster. Plus, you’ll be inspired to create by authors Harshini Vankineni (What Color is the Baby? A Celebration of Skin Tones), Farah Shaw (Sherlock Academy), Joan Bransfield Graham (Awesome Earth), Lee Wardlaw (My Book of Firsts). There will be prizes, morning coffee, catered lunch, photo opportunities, first pages (chance drawing to get feedback on your anonymous first page), a Writing Contest, an Illustrators Portfolio table, Author Display Table and a wonderful opportunity to connect with other writers and illustrators. Everyone who registers also gets to attend our “How to Pitch” webinar on Saturday, September 6 from 10am to noon (included free in your registration).** SCBWI members registered for the 9/20/25 conference have the option to add up to ONE Written Critique (handed out at the end of the day on 9/20/25—no in person meeting) PLUS ONE live Pitch at the pitchfest online the following day Sunday, 9/21/25. Critiques and pitches offered while supply lasts.

Don't forget to check out other SCBWI virtual webinars!