Things have been a little scarce here recently. Why? Among numerous other reasons (the topics of future posts!), I’ve also been helping plan, set up, and coordinate the fabulous online kidlit conference: WriteOnCon!
We’ve been doing an Indiegogo campaign to help cover website costs, etc., and there’s just about a week left. Of course, it’s only now that I remember I haven’t actually talked about it here at all. *facepalm* SO HERE WE GO.
(EDIT: The campaign is over, but you can still register here!)
What is WriteOnCon?
WriteOnCon is a three-day online children’s book conference from February 2-February 4, 2017 for writers and illustrators of picture books, middle grade, young adult, and even new adult. It was founded in 2010 and is now run by a new team of writers (including meee!) who are eager to hearken back to the awesomeness that they remember so fondly from being attendees over the years, while also bringing exciting new elements to the mix.
WriteOnCon features blogs, vlogs, pitch sessions, Q&As, critique forums, and more — there’s something for every writer/illustrator, in every stage of their career. From the comfort of your home, a library, a coffee shop — any place with an internet connection — you can meet agents and editors, connect with potential critique partners, and generally soak up a whole bunch of knowledge!
For further information, please see the F.A.Q. page or contact us.
What’s the Schedule Look Like?
The actual schedule is still under construction, but we have just released the first version of our speakers’ topics. The schedule is up! None of the exact wording is 100% finalized, and the events themselves will be sorted into a proper schedule soon, but I thought you might like a glimpse of what’s in store.
Here are some of my personal favorites:
- Live Pitch Sessions: Erica Bauman, Heather Howland (with other Entangled editors), Natalie Lakosil
- Panel Discussing Diversity and Writing the “Other”:Amanda Sun, Dhonielle Clayton, Elsie Chapman, Heidi Heilig, Riley Redgate, Sangu Mandanna
- Forming Writing Communities and Partnerships: Christina June and Katy Upperman
- Writing Across Multiple Age Categories: Cynthea Liu
- Hosting a Book Event at an Indie Bookstore: Evelyn Skye
- Worldbuilding (Planning vs. Actual): Mindee Arnett
- Standing Out from Similar Stories with: Anita Mumm
And don’t even get me started on all the fabulous, live Q&As! Because they are awesome.
To see the full list, check out our Schedule page.
Why Should I join the Indiegogo Campaign Right Now, This Very Minute?
Because so many reasons, including but not limited:
- You get the early-bird special rate! Which means you’ll pay less than you will come February.
- You have access to all of our fabulous perks, including a plethora of critiques and such from awesome industry professionals. These won’t be available any other time during the conference.
- You get entered into our Indiegogo Raffle if you contribute $5 or more to the campaign.
- I will love you. Forever.
Wait, You Said Raffle?
Exciting news! We have a little over one week left on our campaign (which ends December 15), and we’re getting close to our goal! But even cooler than that: Some industry professionals have generously donated critiques, books, and even phone calls for a special raffle. We’ll be hosting this through our Indiegogo campaign.
Here’s What You Could Win:
- Query letter critique from author Mindy McGinnis
- Query letter critique from author Sara Raasch
- Query letter critique from author Christina June
- Query letter critique from author Katy Upperman
- Query letter critique from agent Kate Testerman
- Query letter critique from agent Uwe Stenders
- First 3 chapters (max 9,000 words) critique, plus synopsis for a manuscript, providing a 500 word feedback report and a follow-up, half-hour Skype discussion from author Rowena House (specializes in upper-MG and teen)
- Synopsis critique from author Alyssa Hollingsworth (that’s me!)
- Half hour phone call with agent Marietta Zacker about the publishing industry
- ARC of Lydia Sharp’s WHENEVER I’M WITH YOU (2 copies available)
- eARCs from editor Alison Weiss
- eARCs from editor Heather Howland
Here’s How You Win:
It’s simple! Just check out our Indiegogo campaign and give at least $5, and then you’re entered automatically. Already backed WriteOnCon for $5 or more? Good news! You’ve been entered, too! Same goes if you’ve donated directly through PayPal.
So, enough of me rambling.
Register on the website, check out the Indiegogo campaign, and whatever you do — be ready for unleashed Awesome come February!
Have you done WriteOnCon in the past? What was your favorite event — or what event are you most looking forward to in 2017?
