SCBWI Writers Workshop with Suzanne Morgan Williams

The Las Vegas, Nevada, contingent of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators sponsored a Writers Workshop conducted by award-winning author Suzanne Morgan Williams on March 7, 2015. Suzanne is the author of the middle grade novel, Bull Rider, published by Margaret K. McElderry Books in 2009. She has received many awards for Bull Rider, including the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Award for Outstanding Juvenile Book of 2009. She is also the author of eleven nonfiction children’s books. You can learn more about her and her writing at: http://www.suzannemorganwilliams.com/index.html.

Seventeen writers participated in the workshop entitled “Talking About Voice.” Ms. Williams provided insight into what an author should do to create a unique voice that will appeal to the reader, as well as to the editor who might acquire the book for publication. She read various examples from her own works and other well-known authors to illustrate how the written word is used to convey a unique voice. She asked participants to share excerpts from their writings, and she assigned writing tasks to be accomplished during the workshop. The enthusiastic response from those in attendance confirmed that Suzanne Morgan Williams is a presenter whose approach challenges any writer to strive for better results.

Cynthis Mun, SCBWI’s Co-Regional Advisor, organized the workshop. She was assisted by Axie Oh, SCBWI’s Regional Coordinator. Thanks to both for hosting a great workshop.

I am proud to say that I am a fellow blogger with Suzanne Morgan Williams on the new website Mad About MG History. This website, designed to promote middle grade historical fiction, is aimed at teachers and librarians; but, it can be enjoyed by anyone. Check it out: http://madaboutmghistory.blogspot.com/.