Have you ever wanted to write a children’s picture book? Well, now you can! Celebrated children’s book author and illustrator Mike Curato teaches the ins and outs of writing your own picture books. From brainstorming ideas to generating a great plot and characters, you’ll learn to create a fascinating story that keeps children (and adults!) turning the page. Plus get insider tips for publishing your book.
Class Sessions
Getting Started
4:56
Welcome to the world of picture books! Discover the power of picture books, learn the different types of stories and how to start being a good writer.
Story & Plot
7:15
Learn how to create a plot using the classic story arc. Find out how to create the right conflict for your work (every story needs conflict!) and how to tackle heavier subjects in your story.
Beginnings & Endings
5:14
Learn how to hook your reader right from the start and how create intrigue in your story right away. Discover how to create a strong ending and how messages and morals will work in your story.
What's the Big Idea?
7:14
Discover different techniques and tricks to coming up with your big story idea. Try a writer's prompt that will help unlock your creativity.
What a Character!
7:06
Find out how to come up with a great character that will enhance your story. Discover the key to characters that last and what you need to make an original, standout character.
Telling a Story Through Pictures
8:35
Discover how the words and pictures works together to create a great story. Plus, find out how to compose your drawings with the Golden Ratio to provide the right eye candy for your reader.
Pacing & Editing
4:22
Find out how to pace your story to keep your readers turning the pages. Plus, learn how to properly edit your picture book to make the story stronger.
Creating a Book Dummy
10:46
What's a book dummy? Find out how to create this mockup for your book. Plus, discover how much you need to illustrate and what to do if you don't draw.
Publishing 101
7:40
Find out the steps to getting traditionally published and what you can do to increase your odds of selling your story. Plus, find out how to self-publish.
Your Instructor
Mike Curato
Award-winning author and illustrator Mike Curato is the creative genius behind the beloved polka-dotted elephant Little Elliot. His debut title, "Little Elliot, Big City," found critical acclaim and has won several awards. Mike also contributed to "What's Your Favorite Color?" by Eric Carle and Friends. Mike was named "Fall 2014 Flying Start" by Publishers Weekly and was also awarded the Society of Illustrators Original Art Show Founder's Award.
Bonus Material
Picture Books 101 - Class Materials
Bonus Materials available for download after purchase.
FAQs
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