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Lionel Bender is Co-Founder and Editorial Partner of UK-based book packager Bender Richardson White (BRW) and of MJL Digital Publishing. BRW creates, develops, and produces children’s illustrated nonfiction and educational materials for publishers in the UK and across North America. It regularly commissions SCBWI authors. MJL Digital Publishing produces self-guided walks in London for online delivery. Lionel is also the author of 65 children’s illustrated science and natural history books and a regular visitor to major book fairs in the US and internationally.

Lionel will conduct a four hour Intensive Workshop on Friday Afternoon, June 8th titled:

Working in Children’s Nonfiction

Description:

What does “nonfiction” include: not just information books but also educational materials, magazines, games, electronic products: a look at some examples. Understanding age ranges, reading levels, the international co-edition market. Illustration and design of children’s nonfiction.
How authors and illustrators can enter this field. How to pitch a nonfiction idea.

The Art and Craft of nonfiction writing: research; approach, and voice. Working with editors. Managing time. Contractual issues of payment, copyright; ensuring accuracy; deadlines; picture research.
How a typical illustrated nonfiction book is produced: The author and illustrator as part of a team. Stages of production of a children’s nonfiction book. Checking stages.

On Saturday and Sunday he is scheduled to do two workshops (descriptions below) and one-on-one consultations.

VISITING BOOK FAIRS: WHY AND HOW?

Description:

What and where are the major book fairs? Why should you visit them? What opportunities do they offer authors and illustrators? How can you maximize your chances of meeting publishers at these events? How do you get past the gatekeepers on the booths? How should you prepare for a visit? What should you do on the day? How do you follow up meetings? Learn the tricks of the trade from a regular book fair visitor and exhibitor. Question and answer time.

BOOK PACKAGERS 101

Description:

What are book packagers and why should you know about them? How do they differ from publishers? What types of books do they produce? Why do they exist and how do they work with publishers? How do they commission and work with authors and illustrators. How much do they pay? How do SCBWI get to meet them and work with them?
Workshop includes examples of book packagers products and what is special about them; handout with list of book packagers. Question and answer time.

Lots more stuff to report. Some new “Get You in Front of an Agent and Editor” ideas in the works. It is going to be a celebration of success and a path to future successes. Hope you will put it on your calendar of events you want to do.

Talk tomorrow,

Kathy