Maryland/Delaware/West Virginia Regional events
Serious about improving your craft? SCBWI's regional events provide opportunities for professional growth and help you connect with a supportive, creative community.
Summer Springboard - No Agent, No Problem: Publishing On Your Own with Matt Forrest Esenwine
Jul 14, 2025
1 event
Online event
Unlimited seats
Although every creator's path to publication is different, there are some insights to be gleaned from Matt's particular journey. In this presentation, Matt will share how he first approached the prospect of getting traditionally published, how critique groups and networking helped him develop his skills and grow his career, and why he remains unagented after publishing for ten years. (Hint: the answer to that last question is surprisingly simple!)
Research Hacks to Level Up Your Writing or Illustration with Melissa Mwai
Jul 17, 2025
1 event
Online event
Unlimited seats
No matter your story’s genre, research can save you time when writing or illustrating and bring your work to life! Join nonfiction author-illustrator Melissa H. Mwai as she shares her research tips and experiences from working with publishers like National Geographic, DK, and Paw Prints. Along with a Q&A, there will be an interactive research challenge!
Squaring Up For School Visits Panel with Valerie Bolling, Jonathan Roth, and Alexis O’Neill
Sep 11, 2025
1 event
Online event
Unlimited seats
School visits offer a great way for authors and/or illustrators to connect with children, and they can also provide an opportunity to sell your books. This webinar is designed to address all the FAQ’s related to such events. Panelists will address keys to successful school visits while providing valuable information designed to help you get new or increased opportunities. Each will present on an aspect of school visits for about 20 minutes. VALERIE BOLLING will address things KidLit creators should consider before contacting schools to propose a visit such as: · What grade level would you like to visit? · What setting would work best for you (whole school, multiple classes, or one class at a time)? · What specific program choices will you offer? · Will you offer only full-day visits, or are you open to half-day visits or even a single session? · Are you open to both in-person and virtual visits? Valerie will respond to these questions as well as others that will be helpful to you as you prepare to visit schools. JONATHAN ROTH will give tips about how building your network can help you get invited to schools. ALEXIS O'NEILL will address how to shape a presentation and share teachers’ comments on what they especially appreciate in an author or illustrator appearance. A Q&A will follow the presentations. Come prepared to learn, and get needed information to begin filling your school visits calendar!