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
Meet-up Guest Speaker: Tita Berredo, Sun, Sept. 27, 1:00-2:00 PT
Join an insider‑focused talk about the world’s biggest and most influential event in children’s publishing: the Bologna Children’s Book Fair.
Fall Harvest Oct. 3; Registration is open until Sept. 27
Writers and illustrators are invited to a full day of speaker presentations, critiques, pitches, first pages, contests and mingling with fellow creatives! This hybrid event is on Sat, Oct. 3, 2026 8:30-5:00 at Cal State University, Fullerton or Zoom.
Illustrator Meet-up Guest Speaker: Jim Hoover, Sat. 10/10 at 10:00
Jim Hoover, Senior Art Director at Viking and Philomel Children’s Books, discusses his career, where he sees the industry is at currently, and most importantly—to look at portfolios. Come prepared with three to five pieces to show and be ready to critique one or two as a full group. The hour will zip by—come join our lively discussion. Jim is a twenty-seven-year industry veteran who works primarily on middle grade, graphic novels, and his personal favorite, picture books.
Keep in touch
To inquire about local events, awards, or opportunities, please email Bev Plass: [email protected]