Campus to host children’s book writers, illustrators

The Arne Nixon Center for the Study of Children’s Literature at Fresno State, the Arne Nixon Center Advocates (ANCA) and The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), North/Central California Region, will co-host an SCBWI regional conference Oct. 17-18, 2003. This program, to be held at Fresno State campus, is for authors, illustrators, teachers, librarians, collectors, and anyone interested in children's literature.

Activities include a Friday night reception and an all-day Saturday workshop. Stephen Mooser, president and co-founder of the SCBWI, will discuss "Writing for Boys, Then Getting Them to Read It." Picture book author Alexis O'Neill will describe "Selling Your Picture Book Without an Agent."

Illustrator/author Deborah Nourse Lattimore will describe her work. Dianne Hess, executive editor of Scholastic Press, will speak on "The Future of Children's Books." Patricia McKissack, whose books have won Coretta Scott King awards and Newbery and Caldecott Honors, will conclude the lecture series with a talk on writing non-fiction.

The early bird registration fee for ANCA and SCBWI members is $65 if paid by Sept. 30. After Sept. 30, the fee is $70. The registration fee for non-members is $75. Space is limited; registration will be accepted at the door if space allows. An optional unit of university credit is available for an additional fee of $40.

For more information, contact the Arne Nixon Center at anc@listserv.csufresno.edu or call 8-8116. Information about the workshop, registration forms, and a full schedule of events are posted on the center's Web site at www.arnenixoncenter.org.