Preparing your application . . .

Because applicants are paired one-on-one with professionals who have volunteered their time for the conference, we can only accept as many applicants as we have mentors (approximately 70 to 80). The number of applicants has grown tremendously in recent years, increasing the competition. Acceptance is based on the strength and quality of the applicant's work, so be sure the three manuscript pages or the artwork that you send are your strongest and best. (Picture book authors may submit one complete manuscript.) Writing samples and illustrations must be unpublished and not under contract.

If possible, it is best to submit the first three pages (double-spaced) of your story. Think of these pages as the same as those an editor would read if you submitted your work to a publisher. You want those pages to be strong and engaging enough to keep the editor reading. If you choose to submit pages from another section of the book, please include a short one-paragraph plot synopsis.

Please don't wait until the last minute to mail your application. The earlier you send your application, the better.

Please tell us about your professional writing or illustrating career. Have you submitted your work? Where? Have you had anything published (including stories, articles, textbook pieces, etc.)? Have you attended professional workshops or academic writing programs? The format can be a brief synopsis, a resume, or a letter. The most important piece of information you can provide will be the three-page sample of your writing or illustrations.

Please do NOT send original art. We cannot return, and are not responsible for, any materials submitted.

Council members will review applications and sample submissions following the July 8 deadline. Applicants will be notified in late August whether or not their application was accepted.