WORKSHOP: BEST PRACTICES FOR WRITING CARIBBEAN YOUNG ADULT BOOKS

Thanks for your interest in taking your YA novel idea to the next level. I am so excited to read your work.

To apply:

    • complete the form at the bottom of the page to apply OR
    • email the required information to info@caribbeanreads.com.

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The need for diverse books has received increased focus over the last few years, however, the stock of Caribbean young adult children’s books has not kept pace with the demand. If you have an idea for a young adult novel, this two-hour workshop will help you take the next steps towards making that book a reality. You will learn the basics of writing a young adult novel, including best practices in plotting a story, character development, writing compelling beginnings, and pitfalls to avoid especially as they pertain to writing books involving Caribbean characters. Participants will receive suggestions for their individual ideas. The workshop will involve a mix of instruction and writing practice.

Your instructor for this workshop, Carol Mitchell, has a wealth of experience writing for children. She is the author of 14 children’s books. Her young adult books have been shortlisted for the Burt Award for Caribbean Literature and she is currently commissioned to write for HarperCollins Big Cat Series. She has an MFA and, in addition to running CaribbeanReads, she teaches creative writing at George Mason University.

Type of Session: Application-Based, must be accepted into the workshop to register

Spaces Available: 6

Workshop Fee: $50

How to Apply

This workshop will best benefit new writers with at least a partially-developed idea. As a result, in order to be considered for participation, please send a 500-word description of your idea for a young adult novel. The description should clearly demonstrate the Caribbean theme of the idea.

Send in your description of your young adult novel, 500-words or less. The description should:

  • clearly demonstrate the Caribbean theme/ connection.
  • show how the book will appeal to young adults.
  • showcase your writing ability
  • indicate how much of the book, if any, you have already written (it is fine if you have not got much further than the planning stages but it should be more than a sketch of an idea).

In addition to the 500-word description, send your name, location, and a brief bio including any previous writing experience (not required).

Important Dates

Submission deadline: June 5

Acceptance emails will be sent: June 8

Workshop payment due: June 9
Apply to the workshop:

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