SCBWI California: SoCal
Welcome to SCBWI California: SoCal
If you are just starting out or have a long-standing career as a writer or illustrator, you are invited to join us. We are a friendly group that provides meet-ups, critique groups, a spring MG/YA writers retreat, a hybrid fall conference and book festival opportunities. Our region includes Long Beach and the counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange. We’re all about making connections!
Our Regional Team
Upcoming Events
LA Festival of Books
Want to sell and sign your books? Are you an SCBWI PAL member? SCBWI SoCal is renting a booth at the festival alongside SCBWI-LA. You can rent time in our booth, sharing your time with other SCBWI members. Registration is full, but you can put your name on the waiting list on the registration page.
Art Day Story Bloom for Illustrators, Picture Book Writers and Graphic Novelists - March 14
Join us for a one day hands-on workshop for illustrators, picture book writers, graphic novelists and author-illustrators on March 14, 2026 at the Laguna College of Art and Design. We'll explore guided art exercises, story-building activities, and collaborative play with fellow creators. Featuring workshop leaders Raissa Figueroa and Joey Spiotto; and off-site critiquers Christy Ewers and Melissa Manlove.
Tahquitz MG-YA Writers Retreat - May 28-31
Want to polish your middle grade or young adult novel? Join our four-day small-group intensive writer retreat in idyllic Idyllwild. You’ll be able to hone your craft and polish your manuscript with the guidance of industry professionals including editors: Alison Romig and Anum Shafqat, and agents Paige Terlip and Michaela Whatnall. This event includes four faculty-lead critique group sessions, a 1:1 coaching session, and optional paid written critiques. May 28-31 at Tahquitz Pines Resort. Registration opens March 1st, 9:00 AM
Keep in touch
To inquire about local events, awards, or opportunities, please email Bev Plass: [email protected]