Description
The workshops for high school students and adults explore purpose, craft, and the children’s and young adult book market with Cherokee Nation citizen and bestselling author Traci Sorell. Picture books, one of the strongest and most enduring categories in children’s publishing, help Indigenous students cultivate a sense a belonging as they see themselves represented in literature, while all readers will have valuable opportunities to learn about diverse history, cultures, and traditions.
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
Explore their purpose and motivation as writers
Learn about fiction and nonfiction writing for young audiences
Gain insight into the trade publishing industry
Develop and revise picture book manuscripts
Practice storytelling techniques through text and visual thinking
Learn strategies for submissions, querying, and publishing timelines
Build community and connections with fellow Indigenous writers
Leave with resources and materials to support continued learning and growth
Workshop times:
High school students: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Adults: 4 to 7 p.m.
Participation is limited to 30 attendees. The application window closes June 12, 2026.
Requirements
Workshop Overview
As schools, libraries, families, and communities seek culturally accurate and authentic stories created by Native voices, the demand for Indigenous children’s and young adult literature continues to grow. Whether Native or non-Native, young readers and the adults who support them are looking for stories that reflect Indigenous histories, cultures, and contemporary realities with honesty and care. However, understanding how the trade publishing industry works and learning how to successfully craft and submit stories for publication can feel overwhelming for emerging writers. This workshop series breaks down the publishing process while helping participants identify the skills, tools, and connections needed to create impactful works for young people, with a special emphasis on picture books, one of the strongest and most enduring categories in children’s publishing. Participants will have opportunities throughout the workshop to ask questions, engage in discussion, receive guidance, and build confidence in beginning or continuing their writing journey. Led by acclaimed author Traci Sorell, creator of eighteen celebrated books for young readers, participants will:
Explore their purpose and motivation as writers
Learn about fiction and nonfiction writing for young audiences
Gain insight into the trade publishing industry
Develop and revise picture book manuscripts
Practice storytelling techniques through text and visual thinking
Learn strategies for submissions, querying, and publishing timelines
Build community and connections with fellow Indigenous writers
Leave with resources and materials to support continued learning and growth
Featured Facilitator Traci Sorell
Traci Sorell is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation and an award-winning author of books for children and young adults. Her works center Indigenous stories, histories, and contemporary experiences with authenticity, care, and heart. Through her writing and advocacy, she encourages Native representation in children’s literature and supports emerging writers in sharing their stories.
Workshop Goals
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
Understand the fundamentals of writing for children and young adults
Gain knowledge of the trade publishing process
Develop and revise original writing
Learn practical submission strategies
Strengthen confidence in their voice and storytelling
Build connections within a supportive community of Indigenous writers
Leave with tools and resources to continue their writing journey
