On a damp, chilly December evening, three authors, one editor, and an audience of aspiring writers and eager listeners gathered together to discuss the process of creating children’s literature. Moderator Mac Barnett, whose children’s book Guess Again just got picked by Time magazine as the #2 children’s book of 2009, led our panelists in a rollicking discussion of all things children’s-book related. Award-winning author of bilingual children’s books Jorge Argueta and author/illustrator Lisa Brown shared stories of how they came to be children’s book writers, and Chronicle Books Associate Editor Melissa Manlove told us how she got involved in editing children’s books.

The panelists discussed the idea of picture books as “little prose poems” and Jorge mused about how to “express difficult feelings with simple words.” The panelists also discussed writing everyday vs. procrastination, guilt as a motivator, and the incredible power of deadlines.

The conversation frequently veered into the absurd, with Morocco declared a hotbed of children’s literature by Mac and Melissa and a brief but fierce debate on how many swears can be used in a middle-grade reader. Many statements were uttered which Mac vowed could never leave the room. Who knew that children’s books could be the source of such mystery and secrecy?

Audience members were able to ask questions of the panelists, and gained insight into submitting work to publishers, tips on working with illustrators, and the pros and cons of having an agent. The spirit of whimsy and unpredictability so essential to children’s literature was present throughout, and audience members left the evening surprised, informed, and, we hope, inspired and encouraged. We expect to see a new crop of children’s books out this spring!

Adult seminars are offered regularly on a variety of topics centered around writing and publishing. All proceeds support 826 Valencia’s free student programming.