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About SCBWI national

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The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, formed in 1971 by a group of Los Angeles based writers for children, is the only international organization to offer a variety of services to people who write, illustrate, or share a vital interest in children’s literature. The SCBWI acts as a network for the exchange of knowledge between writers, illustrators, editors, publishers, agents, librarians, educators, booksellers and others involved with literature for young people. There are currently more than 19,000 members worldwide, in over 70 regions, making it the largest children's writing organization in the world.

find out more, go to  scbwi.org

About SCBWI
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Schmoozes
Schmooze (schmooze), n.: an informal gathering of SCBWI members and friends to discuss books, writing, markets, etc. Usually lasts about 2 hours and may or may not include food. Enjoyment required; sharing/support guaranteed.

Schmooze Q & A PDF Print E-mail

Q:  Ok, so I know what a schmooze is, but why attend one?

A:  Schmoozes are a great way to share information and connect with fellow writers in your area. New members are especially encouraged to attend.

          To announce your own Schmooze, please send the date, time and place of event to Teresa Fannin at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Jo Hackl at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and your Schmooze will be listed on the website calendar. 

          Send reminders about your schmooze to the list-serve at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and the Pen and Palette as well. A six-week lead-time is recommended so people can plan their schedules.

Q:  How do I organize a schmooze?

A:  Here are a few TIPS ... 

•    Find a comfortable venue, e.g., a bookstore with a conversation nook or a local coffee shop where you can spend a couple of hours mixing, chatting and noshing.

•    Invite a local children’s author to anchor the event (if possible). Ask her what kind of program she’d enjoy doing—e.g., an hour-long Q & A, a discussion of her most recent book, etc.

•    Provide a light snack and save your receipts. Then send them to Stephanie Greene (RA) for reimbursement.

•    Bring a sign-up sheet so you will have contact info for attendees.

•    Bring a Sharpie and name tags. This helps people get to know each other.

•    Post a note on the SCBWI/C list serve and send a copy of your announcement to Teresa or Jo. We will post your announcement on the website calendar.

•        You may re-send your listserv note every week or so to remind people.

•        You may also place ads in your local and regional newspapers (in their Arts Calendars, Daybooks, Announcements section, etc.). These are free and can be done via e-mail. If possible, send your blurb to the announcements editor 4 weeks in advance and ask him to post it for 2 consecutive weeks.

•    Have an idea of what you might discuss—e.g., a recent conference, current Newbery winners, an aspect of craft (Plot, Characters, Setting, etc.)

•    One nice thing about a schmooze is there’s no pressure—no critiques to do (or receive!) and no speeches to prepare.

     Just relax, enjoy and get to know fellow writers.         


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