Five authors lead free writing workshops at local libraries

After publishing more than 280 books for children, award-winning author Lola M. Schaefer certainly knows what young audiences want to read. More importantly, Schaefer knows how to craft stories that publishers can sell successfully in today’s market.

Aspiring writers are invited to learn how to brainstorm marketable ideas for young readers and practice strategies for beginning and sustaining the writing through to completion in a free, 90-minute workshop led by Schaefer at the Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 19.

Writers can bring a work-in-progress or start by brainstorming a fresh idea at “How to Write a Children’s Book for Today’s Market.”

“Whether you’re interested in writing picture books, easy readers, or middle grade novels, Ms. Schaefer will offer practical advice on the elements of craft, characters, plot, and conflict so writers can create a story that appeals to both readers and publishers,” says Programming Manager Tracy Walker.

“How to Write a Children’s Book for Today’s Market” is presented in partnership with the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Admission to the workshop is open to the public and advance registration is not required.

“Our second writing workshop of the new year features a panel of four multi-published romance authors that have so much wisdom and experience to share with local writers who want to break into the romance genre,” says Walker.

“Not Your Mother’s Romance Novel” will be held at the Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 9 in partnership with Georgia Romance Writers.

The panel includes Susan Carlisle, Jillian Neal, Vanessa Riley, and Tracy Solheim.

“Each of these authors has a unique perspective on the evolution of the romance genre from the bodice-rippers of the past to today’s books filled with diverse women who take charge of their own lives,” explains Walker.

Susan Carlisle authored more than 25 books for the HarperCollins Harlequin medical imprint. Her Modern Masters of Their Castles trilogy will be out in 2020 under her own imprint. Her books feature strong, vibrant men and the women that challenge them.

Jillian Neal is the author of several romance series, including The Gifted Realm, a contemporary romance with a fantasy twist, and Broken H.A.L.O., a series focused on contemporary military characters.

Vanessa Riley writes Regency and historical romance novels for readers who love sweeping kisses and strong sisterhoods set in vibrant communities with powerful persons of color.

Tracy Solheim is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary sports romance, romantic suspense, and small town women’s fiction.

Admission to “Not Your Mother’s Romance Novel” is open to the public and advance registration is not required.

For more information on these and other programs for writers, please visit www.forsythpl.org.