Sept. 27 Meet-up Guest Speaker: Tita Berredo
Join an insider‑focused talk about the world’s biggest and most influential event in children’s publishing: the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. Discover what makes Bologna the buzzing heart of the global industry, where creators, agents, editors, and art directors come together to shape trends, scout talent, and build international connections. Led by a creator who elevated her career through the fair, SCBWI International IC Tita Berredo will give writers and illustrators a clear, engaging introduction to how the fair works, why it matters, and how to prepare your work to stand out. You’ll also learn all about SCBWI’s presence at Bologna, including its dedicated booth that showcases member’s works and offers book pitches and portfolio reviews with industry professionals. Whether you’re exploring international opportunities or planning your first visit, this session will give you essential guidance to navigate the BCBF with purpose and a strong professional presence.
Writers Meet-up
When: Sun., Sept. 27, 1:00 - 2:00 pm PT
Speaker: Tita Berredo
Topic: What's the Buzz about Bologna?
Where: zoom
Cost: Free
Tita Berredo is a Brazilian children’s writer‑illustrator and SCBWI's International IC. Published in both the United States and Brazil, she has developed strong experience working across international markets. Her long‑standing attendance at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair has made her a recognised expert on the event; through successful submissions, portfolio showcases, and industry networking, she has built an international profile shaped directly by opportunities at the fair. As part of the SCBWI Global team at Bologna, Tita brings practical insight, firsthand knowledge, and a creator’s perspective to help members navigate the fair with clarity and confidence. Tita is represented by Fairbank Literary Representation, and is currently working on an Seuss Studio's Early Reader published by Random House Children's.
SoCal welcomes you to join our monthly meet-ups to connect with other creative people and hone your craft. We mingle, have guest speakers, and celebrate writer successes. We generally meet on the fourth Sunday of the month from 1:00-2:00. Sometimes we change the dates due to holidays or other SCBWI events. We break into critique groups immediately following, using the same zoom link. Please read about the critique groups and submission deadlines for "SoCal Writers Group" below.
Critique Groups
SoCal Writer Critique Groups
SoCal Writers typically meet every fourth Sunday of the month via zoom immediately following the meet-up. The same zoom link is used for both meetings.
Inland Empire Writers Critique Group
Inland Empire Writers meet every third Saturday of the month via zoom for meet-up and critique groups.
Illustrator Meet-ups
Illustrators typically meet every second Saturday of the month in person and/or via zoom.
Illustrator Accountability Sessions
One-hour motivational work sessions held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month via zoom
Writer Submission Guidelines:
Picture Book (PB)
Submission length - Send in one manuscript. 1,000 words or less.
Document type - Word document (NOT Pages or PDF.)
Document name - GENRE (PB), LAST NAME, FIRST, TITLE
Document formatting - Size 12 font, Times New Roman. Double spaced. 1 inch margin on all sides.
Document header - Title/author last name (on the far left) and page numbers (on the far right)
Middle Grade (MG) / Young Adult (YA)
Submission length - Send in five pages (double spaced)
Document type - Word document (NOT Pages or PDF.)
Document name - GENRE (MG/YA), LAST NAME, FIRST, TITLE
Document formatting - Size 12 font, Times New Roman. Double spaced. 1 inch margin on all sides.
Document header - Title/author last name (on the far left) and page numbers (on the far right)
Note: If you are submitting a chapter that is later in the novel (not chapter 1), it is helpful to provide a “here’s what has happened so far” summary. It is also helpful to the critiquer if you include a complete synopsis of the novel so they can judge the excerpt within the entire context of the novel. These are merely suggestions, not requirements, to help you maximize the quality of the feedback from your group. First-time submissions: It is highly recommended you attend a meeting once before participating in a critique group. That way, you will know the process we follow. It is important you know the process as this is a moment of vulnerability for members of the group. We want to guide and inspire, not crush our aspiring writers.
Future Meet-up Dates:
Oct 25 (submissions due 10/16) Ernesto Cisneros (author) His Author's Journey
Nov 22 (submissions due 11/13) Janice Hardy, The Story Beneath the Story
Dec (No meeting)