End of Year Checklist: How to Finish the Year Off Strong—and Healthy! [Part 2]

End of Year Checklist:

How to Finish the Year Off Strong and Healthy!

Part 2

With all the presents having been opened and all the holiday food baked, stewed, and roasted, I hope you've enjoyed the holiday festivities. As the year comes to a close, and the post-holiday week is upon us, here are a few more points on our "End of Year Checklist" that will help us end the year with energy, excitement, and purpose!

5. Review Your Work

This is a new one for me. To be honest...in the past, I wouldn't review my work. I made it —now what's next? Maybe I didn't like what I made or I have a "vision" of where I want to be. I've always been about forward momentum but lately, I've been presented with the idea of truly sitting with my work. See what worked. See what didn't. Moving ahead in the career is definitely on all of our minds, but it is wise to take in your previous work. And by take in, I mean, really focusing in on the work, almost like it's new.

What I've discovered in doing this is that my voice is quietly hidden amongst the work. Themes, and ideas and techniques present themselves to me, and it has helped me shape and sharpen my particular voice as an artist. Some of these older ideas connect to what I'm creating now and sometimes, I remember ideas that I may have forgotten along on the way. 

Review your work, and appreciate it all, good or not, for it was a part of the journey to bring you to this point.

6. Unplug

Unplug, my friends. From social media, from television, from the phone, the inter-webs. Unplug from it all. Not forever, but long enough to where you can reset your brain and decompress. Especially from social media. My goodness! The dopamine hits that we get from scrolling is fine in short spans but in the long run, it isn't the healthiest. 

Turn your phone off. Put your phone in the other room. Go analog for half a day. Take a walk—don't forget to bundle up — or even stare out the window. I like to join my cat Edward as he keeps up with his soap opera stories, "What the Neighbors are Doing Today!" It's free of subscription and pretty interesting, if you ask him. 

Whether you are engaged in something else, or just staring off into a daydream, unplug from the fast-paced world, and catch up with yourself. 

7. Refill your Inspiration Cup

The Little Mermaid. Princess and the Frog. Gravity Falls. Absolutely Fabulous. Studio Ghibli. Lemony Snicket Books. Steven Universe...

These are the things, the media, I've consumed lately. These are my absolute favorite things. These are the movies, books, shows, etc that inspire me, that make me tick creatively. 

After a year of a lot of creating, which I am so grateful for, I know I have to refill my cup. Reconnecting with these inspirations of mine help me get back on track, redirecting me back to my creative compass. Just yesterday, I rewatched the finale of Steven Universe and cried like a baby. Mind you, I've seen it tons of times, but it resonates deeply and reminds me of the work I want to create, the type of stories I want to tell and reflects my creative sensibilities back at me as I grow as an artist. 

Make a list of what inspires you. From childhood to now, rediscover and reconnect with some of them. You'll be surprised how it can reveal parts of your inner self and get you back into your artistic spirit.

8. Sleep

Amidst all the activity, parties, get togethers, potlucks, dance offs, make sure that you are getting adequate rest. And I mean, actual rest. Take naps! Sleep in! Go to bed early! Just this week I took a nap from 4:30pm to 9pm, moved over to my bed and then slept from 11pm to 8am after playing Pokemon on my Nintendo 3DS. I was committed to being horizontal, no matter what!

Throughout the year, especially during the latter part, I know that we try to cram everything in and sleep is one of the first things to be "slept on"—see what I did there? But during this time, if you have the opportunity to as I know we all lead different lives, try to find restful, replenishing sleep. Your body and mind will thank you. 

*  *  *

I hope this list helps you garner some inspiration, healing and rest as the year wraps up. You deserve it! Here is part one of the "End of the Year Checklist" series, in case you've missed it! 

Stay tuned for the third, and final installment of this series, to round off our checklist. Till then, take care!

End of Year Checklist: How to Finish the Year Off Strong—and Healthy! [Part 1]

End of Year Checklist:

How to Finish the Year Off Strong and Healthy!

Part 1

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate! As we come to the end of another year, I always like to reflect on what this year entailed but more importantly, how I can bridge the gap to usher in a the healthy transition into the New Year. Never was a resolutions kind-of-guy, but want I do like to practice is the continuation of positive habits and ways of being. Here are some of my personal tips!

1. Warm Ups

Physical warm ups, mental warm ups, artistic warm ups, they all count! I'm an early riser so before I start my day, I do a nice stretch and then, with coffee in hand, I sit at my art table with all the items for my daily routine. I do my tarot and journal for my mental health "warm up." I'm coming to the end of my 5 Year Q&A journal, and it is wild to see you I've become over these past few years. Then, if a question sparks something in me, I expand in my journal journal, mapping out my thoughts, feelings, etc. Then, I sketch randomly, warming up my artistic brain. 

Whether I'm creating that day or not, the warms ups, all around, keep me feeling healthy and ready to go. Plus, being able to see where I've been and where I'm going is a great boost!

2. Get Your Energy Moving: 

Get your energy moving! 

Do mundane things, like chores, walks, organizing. Quiet and simple movement helps your brain shut down and reevaluate, rejuvenate and reset. 

Even have a dance party, by yourself, in your room. Celebrate a year full of ups and downs, victories and failures by taking a step back from productivity and a step forward to resetting your energy. Shake it out and let the mind relax and the body take over! 

3. Write What You've Accomplished and Scratch that Baby Off

I am the king of To-Do lists. 

My To-Do list has a To-Do list, and I love to fill them up and scratch off what I've accomplished. I even have a system where different types of scribbles mean different things. Yeah, it's a bit extra but hey! It gets me to the work and keeps me going. 

But this year, write a list of what you've accomplished. It could be artistically, or even just in life! Goals that you'd been working toward, things that happen to come to fruition naturally, little victories that brought you joy, comfort and a sense of productivity and relief. Write them all down and scratch them babies off! I have a yearly planner specifically for keeping track of what I've done and whenever I feel like I haven't done anything with my life, I look back at my scribbles and remember, the engine was healthy (enough) and keep me moving forward. 

4. Hydrate

Plain and simple. 

Hydrate. 

No worries, I'm not judging. You can drink while you read this. But I can't tell you how many times I was on the brink of a meltdown and all I needed was to drink some water. 

It is the element of life and a simple solution to help balance the body. Being a dancer, I love me some water, and I have sooooo many cute water bottles so there are "water stations" everywhere in my home. So grab that cup and let's toast our water together. 

Stay tuned for more "End of the Year Checklists!" Let's end this year with flying colors, together!

2026 Illustrators' Intensive: Interview with Laurent Linn

 

Here to round out our interview series for the upcoming Illustrators' Intensive, is the multi-faceted, and talented, Laurent Linn, artist and art director of Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. I'm so excited to have him on the blog so I'll let Laurent introduce himself! Check it out!

1. It feels very full circle, as you were one of the first people I met when I attended my first SCBWI virtual conference, so I'm super excited to have you here on the blog! Though many of the readers know how talented, insightful and giving you are to the children's publishing world, in your own words, tell us about yourself and your role within SCBWI!

I’m so happy to be speaking with you for the wonderful SCBWI Blog! I wear different hats in the children’s book world and, by day, I’m an art director at Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, where I work with wonderfully talented illustrators, authors, and colleagues on picture books, middle grade novels, and teen novels. (And many of the illustrators I work with are SCBWI success stories!)

With SCBWI, I am the President of the SCBWI Board of Directors, having been elected to this role at the end of 2024. It’s a true honor and also full-circle for me. I’ve been involved with SCBWI for over 20 years— attending and speaking at conferences around the US and globally, serving on the Advisory Council, and doing what I can to help support, encourage, and celebrate our incredible members. I first came to SCBWI as an attendee myself and knew right away I’d found my community. It soon became a deeply important part of my life and helped shape my career in children’s publishing as well as an illustrator and author myself.

As President of the Board of Directors, I am very grateful that I get to be able to look at the big picture of where the organization is now and where we want to grow it in the future. Our SCBWI community is so important and needed— especially now when, not only do children need our transformative stories more than ever, but we also need this caring and supportive creative community for ourselves.


2. What makes the Illustrators' Intensive unique compared to some other art intensives and workshops?

The Illustrator’s Intensive that we create for the in-person Winter Conference is always a special event. It’s a rare opportunity to dive deep into important aspects of specifically illustrating for children’s books. Other intensives or classes often cover broader territory and don’t bring in the rich variety of speakers that we have in-store for our intensive. We always choose a very specific topic and invite top experts in the field to show us how they bring their stories to life in singular ways. And, also unlike other sessions some may have seen, we present the intensive as peer-to-peer, professional to professional, not teacher to student. We recognize that attendees are serious about their craft.

Cecilia Yung, Pat Cummings, and I are on the SCBWI Advisory Council together and each year the three of us plan and host the Winter Illustrators Intensive with the intent of focusing in on a specific theme that is essential to creating successful children’s book illustration.

3. What inspired the creation of this year’s theme or curriculum?

For this year, we wanted to take advantage of being in-person and bring movement and action itself into the room. And this year's theme, ACTION! Harnessing the Visual Energy of Movement, is something we’ve been wanting to dive into for quite a while. We’ll start off with a hands-on figure drawing workshop led by the inspirational Eugenia Mello, then explore how to weave rhythm into your art with the legendary Rudy Guttierez, learn how emotion and motion work together with Jensine Eckwall, and end with a bang with celebrated comics and graphic novel illustrator Shawn Martinbrough.


4. How does the Illustrators' Intensive support artists who may be beginners or intermediate, and advanced?

The Illustrator's Intensive is specifically designed to be meaningful for all illustrators, no matter where they are in their craft or career. We'll dive deep into techniques, approaches, and specifics of movement and energy in narrative illustration—there will be new ideas for all. Published and professional children's book illustrators can experience new approaches to your craft as well as gain insights into new ways of thinking about your own work. For experienced illustrators who are pre-published but are well-versed in this field, it’s an opportunity to learn from industry professionals and learn how they make their art stand out. And those just starting out will gain a rich understanding of an aspect of illustration you may not have considered before, with tips and tricks and insights.


5. What message would you give to someone who is unsure about joining the program?

This intensive is an exceedingly rare opportunity to explore an aspect of children’s book illustration that is essential yet rarely focused on. It’s a special opportunity to invest in your own art in rich ways that could help shape how you tell your needed stories so they stand out.

Laurent Linn

Art Director, Author, Illustrator

About
As Art Director at Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Laurent collaborates on picture books, middle grade, and teen novels with both celebrated and new illustrators. He is also the author/illustrator of the YA novel, Draw the Line.

Laurent is the President of the SCBWI Board of Directors and is Co-chair of the SCBWI Advisory Council. He is also Artistic Advisor for the Original Art exhibit at New York’s Society of Illustrators. Laurent began his career as a puppet designer/builder in Jim Henson’s Muppet Workshop for shows including the Muppet Christmas Carol and Muppet Treasure Island films, eventually becoming Creative Director for the Sesame Street Muppets, winning an Emmy Award.

laurentlinn.com

2026 Illustrators' Intensive: Interview with Cecilia Yung

For our next blog post, I'm so pleased that we are joined by the fantastic, Cecilia Yung, the former Executive Art Director and Vice President at Penguin Random House, who will be answering some of your questions about the upcoming 2026 Illustrators' Intensive! 

When I attended my first In-Person Conference in 2021, I took part of Cecilia's session, and I still revisit those notes today! I'm so thankful to Cecilia for joining us here on the Official SCBWI blog, and am excited to share her insights!

1. Though you do not need any introduction, being a brilliant leader and advocate for children's literature and art, would you please tell us a little about yourself and your role within SCBWI.

I’ve been working in children’s book publishing since 1980 and I recently retired after working as art director at Penguin Random House for 30 years. I’ve been on the Advisory Council of SCBWI since 2004 and I’m still working with the Illustrator Committee to plan programs for illustrators.


2. What make the SCBWI Illustrators' Intensive different/ unique compared to other intensives and workshops?

Many workshops target entry level illustrators and introduce picture book illustration as a template. SCBWI Illustrators’ Intensives address the needs of working early and mid-career illustrators, and our programs deconstruct the multi-faceted craft of visual storytelling by deep diving into specific issues, one topic at a time. At every Intensive, we invite a number of distinguished illustrators with distinctly different styles to contrast their process and solutions. The multiple viewpoints give an illustrator a range of tips and tools, but also provide a context for their own work and encourage them to fine-tune their true voice using their personal set of tools in a real world setting.


3. How does the Illustrators' Intensive help develop the artistic voice and professional readiness of the participating illustrators? 

Outside of an academic setting, there are few places for a professional to continue to develop and grow. The Intensive is an information gathering opportunity for a working illustrator looking to up their game. They will be surprised and inspired to see that established professionals also need to find ways to challenge themselves regularly and find exciting solutions. The Intensive might show them new ways to use the skills and tools they already have, but they might be prompted to experiment with ideas they had not previously considered. The goal is for everyone to personalize the new-found information and insights to create artwork that serves their story but is also true to their own vision.


4. What aspects of this intensive do you think will challenge the participants the most...in a good way?

In the process of creating a picture book, even the most experienced illustrator is likely to get stumped by some aspects of it, and it’s not unusual for that to happen in an intensive as well. An illustrator seeing their own work in this setting may be intimidated by their peers, or feel overwhelmed by the options, or realize that their skills may not be adequate for the task. It's helpful to know that self-doubt is ever-present in a lifetime of creative work, and is a necessary engine of growth. The best way to deal with doubt is to find the right place to ask questions, explore answers, and find a way through. The Intensive is such a place.


5. What message would you give to an artist who maybe unsure about attending the Illustrator's Intensive?

Come join us for the information and inspiration, and stay for the community. You will need all of it in your illustration career.

Cecilia Yung

Art Director, Illustrator

About

Cecilia Yung is the former Executive Art Director and Vice President at Penguin Random House where she was responsible for illustration and design for two imprints, G. P. Putnam's Sons and Nancy Paulsen Books. Over four decades in the industry, she is fortunate to have worked with some of the major illustrators of children’s books, but the highlight of her work is to discover and develop new talent. She is on the Advisory Council of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) as well as a member of its Illustrators Committee.

ACTION! Harnessing the Visual Energy of Movement

An Intensive for Illustrators, Friday, January 16th

Movement is the key that unlocks the themes, narratives, and emotions of an illustrated book. Visual stories rely on movement to bring characters to life, introduce change in static scenes, drive the engine of the narrative, and propel the reader to the visual climax. In individual scenes, motion can reveal characters’ personalities, articulate body language, and fuel the energy of the moment. But how do we achieve that in a two-dimensional medium like a book? Four noted illustrators will show us their unique ways of harnessing motion effectively and dramatically without the benefit of animation, sound, or dimension. Join us to learn how they bring their stories to life and make it look effortless.

2026 Illustrators' Intensive: Interview with Pat Cummings

I'm sure you know that SCBWI offers so many incredible panels, keynotes, sessions throughout the conference and this year, I want to shine the spotlight on one particular offering, the Illustrators' Intensive. Here to help me do so is the incomparable, Pat Cummings! Always a warm smile, and an encouraging word, Pat has been a wonderful presence in the children's publishing world, and I feel honored to have her here on the blog!


1. Thank you so much for joining us here on the Official SCBWI blog! A prolific creator, mentor and children's publishing icon, in your own word, would you tell us about yourself and your role within SCBWI.

Hi Justin,

I’ve been on SCBWI’s Illustrators’ Committee for about 360 years, ever since Cecilia Yung and Tomie DePaola invited me to join them. 

I got my first children’s book to illustrate shortly after graduating. I had NO idea what I was doing but I did know someone who knew someone who had once dated Tom Feelings. So, I called him up cold and he walked me step by step through illustrating a book. When I thanked him for his generous guidance, Tom said that he hoped I would help others when they needed it.

At SCBWI, I found people who shared that attitude. Members tend to be generous with advice and support. As a member of the Illustrators’ Committee on the Advisory Council, I help plan the Intensives and help with our Mentorship and Narrative Art Award programs.

2. What makes the SCBWI Illustrators' Intensive different/ unique compared to other intensives and workshops?

The Intensives always focus on one critical aspect of illustrating picture books. The faculty is chosen to include masters of the chosen topic who know how to break down their techniques into teachable lessons. Hands-on exercises at the Intensives hone in on the topics so specifically that participants will be exposed to techniques and concepts that can take their work to a new level.

3. What advice would you give an illustrator on how they can make the most of the Illustrators' Intensive?

Come with an open mind. Be open to experimenting, to playing, to surprising yourself. Be rested. And definitely take note of what materials to bring so that you’ll have everything you need.

4. How do you hope the attendees will grow creatively, as well as technically?

The wonderful thing about SCBWI is that everyone seems to learn from everyone else. I have yet to meet anyone at a conference, beginner or pro, who doesn’t want to further develop their skills. Hopefully, attendees will find that the techniques and concepts they learn will enhance what they already love doing when creating illustrations.


5. What message would you give to an artist’s who maybe unsure about attending the Illustrators' Intensive?

Attending is an investment in yourself. Not only can you expect to discover new techniques but you’re sure to leave brimming with ideas for new projects. What’s really cool is that I’ve seen people find new friends who are on a similar path, friends who continue to inspire and support them.

Pat Cummings

Author, Illustrator

About
Pat Cummings is the author/illustrator of over forty books for young readers. She also edited the award-winning series, Talking With Artists, which profiles prominent children's book illustrators. She teaches at Parsons and Pratt, and her children's book illustration class has a growing number of notable illustrator/authors among its graduates. Pat serves on the SCBWI Board of Advisors as well as on the boards of the Authors Guild, the Authors League Fund, The Authors Guild Foundation and The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. She is a member of the Writers Guild of America, East. Her annual Children’s Book Boot Camp brings writers and illustrators together with agents and top editors and art directors from major publishing houses.

ACTION! Harnessing the Visual Energy of Movement

An Intensive for Illustrators, Friday, January 16th

Movement is the key that unlocks the themes, narratives, and emotions of an illustrated book. Visual stories rely on movement to bring characters to life, introduce change in static scenes, drive the engine of the narrative, and propel the reader to the visual climax. In individual scenes, motion can reveal characters’ personalities, articulate body language, and fuel the energy of the moment. But how do we achieve that in a two-dimensional medium like a book? Four noted illustrators will show us their unique ways of harnessing motion effectively and dramatically without the benefit of animation, sound, or dimension. Join us to learn how they bring their stories to life and make it look effortless.

Big Opportunities for Illustrators at the In-Person Winter Conference!

Big Opportunities for Illustrators at the In-Person Winter Conference!

There’s still time to reserve your spot for these can’t-miss, high-impact events at the SCBWI Winter Conference. Jump in and make the most of every opportunity.

Action! Harnessing the Visual Energy of Movement

A half-day Illustrator's Intensive

Friday, January 16 from 8:00am to 12:30pm

Movement is the key that unlocks the themes, narratives, and emotions of an illustrated book. Visual stories rely on movement to bring characters to life, introduce change in static scenes, drive the engine of the narrative, and propel the reader to the visual climax. In individual scenes, motion can reveal characters’ personalities, articulate body language, and fuel the energy of the moment. But how do we achieve that in a two-dimensional medium like a book? Four noted illustrators will show us their unique ways of harnessing motion effectively and dramatically without the benefit of animation, sound, or dimension. Join us to learn how they bring their stories to life and make it look effortless. Click HERE for more info.

Go to the conference landing page and click on the green “Register for Event” button to add to your registration.

Behind the Scenes Look at MacMillan Publishing

Friday, January 16, 10am - 12pm

Exclusive opportunity for twenty five people to visit a New York Publishing house and mingle with editors at Macmillan Children's Publishing Group. A tour of the offices will follow a presentation by esteemed editors that will include what they publish and what they are looking for. You will also be allowed to submit a pitch for your manuscript BEFORE the conference so that the team can review it, and if it fits their wish list, they will contact you! 

Click HERE for more info.

Behind the Scenes Look at Delacorte Press

Friday, January 16, 2pm-4pm

Exclusive opportunity for twenty five people to visit a New York Publishing house and mingle with editors at Delacorte Press, an imprint of Random House. A tour of the offices will follow a presentation by esteemed editors that will include what they publish and what they are looking for. (NOTE: Delacorte dioes NOT publish picture books). You will also be allowed to submit a pitch for your manuscript BEFORE the conference so that the Delacorte team can review it, and if it fits their wish list, they will contact you! 

Click HERE for more info.

The Society of Illustrator’s Original Art Exhibition

A Private Viewing of the Society of Illustrators’s Original Art Exhibition

Saturday, January 17 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Now in its 45th year, the Original Art Show is a premier annual exhibit celebrating illustrations from the year’s best children’s books published in the U.S. It’s a standout chance to connect with the people shaping the field. Spend the evening viewing more than 200 original paintings, drawings, prints, and collages from current titles selected by a jury of children’s book illustration professionals, then take advantage of the intimate setting to network with industry leaders and conference faculty, including art directors, editors, and agents, alongside fellow creators. 

Click HERE for more info.

Holiday Shopping? Check out the SCBWI Bookshop!

I have to admit...I'm not a big Christmas—or holiday fan, in general. I know right?! Me? What I do love is watching people spread a bit more joy than usual, and you got to love the streets lit up with fairy lights! But another part I've come to enjoy is walking through those little holiday villages that pop up all over the city. Being able to engage with local artists as well as small companies is a highlight, and even though I wish I could buy something from every stand, getting to interact and hear the seller's story is lovely.

Photo Credit: nbcnewyork.com

Shopping locally, especially this year, has been super important to me, and purchasing gifts straight from the seller not only makes the item that more special but it supports the creator directly.

Well, SCBWI BookStop is a bit like those little brightly decorated, holiday houses, except it is VIRTUAL! You can create, curate and champion your book(s) as well as check out books of other SCBWI members! So if you are looking for the perfect gift, look no further!

"This annual event showcases an incredible selection of books from our talented authors and illustrators. Whether you’re craving heart-pounding action, swoon-worthy romance, compelling drama, captivating non-fiction, or delightful adventures for young readers, SCBWI BookStop has it all! Dive into new stories and uncover your next favorite book for yourself or as a thoughtful holiday gift. Don’t miss out on this treasure trove of literary gems!" 

Curated and categorized by genre, BookStop carries: Picture Books, Chapter Books, Middle Grade Books, Young Adult Books, Graphic Novels, Novelty/Board Books. A mix of traditionally published, and independently/self published, it is pretty cool to see the stories that our peers are writing, illustrating, and creating! 

If you interested in showcasing your own book, check out my previous post on BookStop, with directions on how to get started or visit the FAQ!

2026 Virtual Winter Conference

 

With the In-Person Conference gearing up, don't forget that SCBWI offers a Virtual Winter Conference as well! February 6-7, you can join in the fun with exclusive industry panels, hands-on sessions on writing and illustrating, as well as networking opportunities to meet other creators. 

My very first conference was a virtual conference, and it was perfect for me! I was new to the community and being able to Zoom in from the comfort of my home allowed me to easy my way into children's publishing. That is where I met some of my long time creator friends, it allowed me to connect with people all over the world. 

So whether it is expenses or distance that is your obstacle, don't let that stop you from experiencing the chance to boost your children's book career!

"Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, gain insider knowledge, or connect with other talented authors and illustrators, this event is for you! If you can't make it to the live sessions, video replays will be available to view through March 15th."

Register HERE for the 2026 Virtual Winter Conference! 

SCBWI 2026 In-Person Winter Conference | Giving Tuesday

It's December, so you know what that means! The holiday spirit is in full effect and with that, the gift of giving! Yassss! Why not gift yourself or someone you love with the gift of children's book magic!

Registration for the SCBWI 2026 In-Person Winter Conference in New York is open!

My mother actually was the one who purchased my very first conference admission fee! Thanks, mama! And it was the conference that changed the trajectory of my career and life! I found community, purpose and so much joy, and that is what I hope for all those who attend!

Register HERE and join the SCBWI community this January!

ALSO! Today is officially GIVING TUESDAY!

Consider donating this year to one of the many causes below!

Impact and Legacy Fund

The SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund, launched in 2022, is a division of SCBWI created to support the charitable activities and community purposes of SCBWI. Its programs and initiatives are not limited to SCBWI members but are available to the entire children’s book community.

The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Impact and Legacy Fund is committed to creating, implementing, and supporting programs that center children’s books and their creators as a driving force behind equity, literacy, and freedom of expression for readers and storytellers alike.

Amber Brown Grant

The Amber Brown Grant commemorates author and beloved school speaker Paula Danziger. One school is awarded each year with an author or illustrator visit and new books to continue Paula’s love of connecting children with creative influences.

Disability Fund Application

The SCBWI Disability Fund gives grants to disabled members for anything that would help them create children’s literature. For nonmembers with disabilities, the funds may support memberships and/or registration to events.

Emergency Fund

The SCBWI Emergency Fund provides a grant of up to $1,500 to a member for anything that would help them create children’s literature. For nonmembers with disabilities, the funds may support memberships and/or registration to events.

Giving Tuesday! SCBWI Impact & Legacy Fund, Awards & Grants, etc.

Happy Thanksgiving to all those who celebrate. 

To close out our month of activism, community action, and celebration, I want to invite you to check out some of SCBWI's charitable programs, awards, and grants as well as our book ban champions. In the spirit of gratitude, and with Giving Tuesday around the corner, please consider donating to help the KidLit community survive and thrive.

Impact and Legacy Fund

The SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund, launched in 2022, is a division of SCBWI created to support the charitable activities and community purposes of SCBWI. Its programs and initiatives are not limited to SCBWI members but are available to the entire children’s book community.

The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Impact and Legacy Fund is committed to creating, implementing, and supporting programs that center children’s books and their creators as a driving force behind equity, literacy, and freedom of expression for readers and storytellers alike.

Amber Brown Grant

The Amber Brown Grant commemorates author and beloved school speaker Paula Danziger. One school is awarded each year with an author or illustrator visit and new books to continue Paula’s love of connecting children with creative influences.

Disability Fund Application

The SCBWI Disability Fund gives grants to disabled members for anything that would help them create children’s literature. For nonmembers with disabilities, the funds may support memberships and/or registration to events.

Emergency Fund

The SCBWI Emergency Fund provides a grant of up to $1,500 to a member for anything that would help them create children’s literature. For nonmembers with disabilities, the funds may support memberships and/or registration to events.

Banned Book Resources

Here are some resources to continue the fight beyond Banned Book Week!

• Banned and Challenged Books Bookshop 
• A expansive list of banned books that you can purchase to help support creators

• SCBWI Banned Book Video Playlists
• Check out SCBWI's Banned Book Playlist, full of panel discussions with industry professional, censorship activists and more!

• Consider joining organizations that are on the front line of the fight!
• Unite Against Book Bans
• Pen America
• Authors Against Book Bans
• National Coalition Against Censorship

The Holidays are Here!

    Hi friends, it’s me, Sibu TP, and happy happy happy Thanksgiving week! It’s the holidays, and that means different things for different people. For some, it’s a time of warmth and reflection spent with loved ones, full tables, and a heap of traditions. For others, the season is a bit lonelier, a bit quieter, and many of the traditions we may take for granted are experienced from the outside looking in. 

So first note, if you can, please consider those who are unable to enjoy this time, and take a moment to appreciate all you have. If you’re able, please also donate to those who may have a bit less on their table through local food banks, drives, pantries, etc. I included some links below to start, but definitely try contributing locally where you can. And finally, again if you can, maybe send a text to someone you haven’t spoken to for a while who may need a bit of human connection this time of year. 

The holidays usually make me reflect a lot, I get a bit sad, I really feel the time passing on and I start thinking about old friends and family. But of course it’s fun too. Time off, traditions, turkey. My wife and I visit both our families so we’re lucky in that way. I try not to lose sight of that. 

But let’s talk about art.

What do the holidays really mean in the context of art making? For me it’s guilt, haha. First off, we’re nearing the end of the year and I’m always thinking I could have done more and asking if what I did this year was enough. I always try to squeeze in some more work before the year ends, whether that be a new portfolio piece or an update to the manuscript I was working on. 

But the thing that’s at odds with that thinking is that living is one of the most important things you can do to help you make art. 

You absolutely have to experience life without the encumbrance of commodifying those experiences by crystalizing it in the amber of a new piece of art. The best thing you can do for your mind and heart is to get rest and to open the metaphorical shutters. Clear out the cobwebs, let in some light and fresh air. Recirculate, refill. If you’re thinking of skipping out on the family gathering or friendsgiving because you feel bad about being away from your work desk, I really wholeheartedly suggest reconsidering. 

I mean, please make your deadlines. Let me reiterate, I’m definitely not telling you to miss your deadlines! But if you’re on deadline, try to make both. You may even find the break a nice source of clarity that helps you get through the finish line quicker. 

And if you’re going to the function and are hoping to be inspired, don’t let the prospect of a new idea color your time at the event. Trust me, I know the impulse to think that everything and everyone put in front of you is only there to potentially be a book. But, it’s not. You’re actually short-changing yourself and depriving yourself of rest and fun by not fully being present. So as an artist and a person, the best thing for you to do is to be present where you are. Then, when you get home later, try to recall what you felt and what you saw to provide something you’re working on with a little home-inspired specificity. 

Be kind to yourself. This work is alienating at times and you’re often the only person who truly believes in what you’re making. Don’t add to those feelings by thinking you don’t deserve a break. Clear your mind, eat, be present in spaces with people you love, or with people you’re meeting for the first time. Take time to reflect on your year and on all the wonderful things you are blessed with. Then, for the love of God, please make your deadlines. :) 

This is my last post as a guest blogger. It’s been really fun to talk these ideas out and share them with you all. Have a wonderful holiday and New Year. I’ll be at the SCBWI Winter Conference, maybe I’ll see you there? Until then, happy art-making, friends!

https://www.feedingamerica.org/ 

https://robinhood.org/ 

https://foodforthepoor.org/help-now/ 

https://www.habitat.org/

If this post interested you, please reach out and let me know!

You can find me as @sibutp on all the things, mainly Instagram.

Sibudraws.com

sibup.art@gmail.com 

About Me

I'm a storyteller. I make cultural and societal picture books that are rich, colorful, and touch on universal stories. I work through the belief that we're all connected by those small moments in life that I try to capture in my illustrations.

Born and raised in New York, I am a first-generation child of immigrants from Kerala, India. I spent a great deal of my childhood years scribbling and sketching, dreaming and imagining. I studied English Literature at Stony Brook University and received my MFA in Illustration at the Hartford Art School.

Interview with Jennie Mayfield from the New York Pubic Library

Continuing our theme this month, I had the pleasure to connect with Jennie Mayfield, a Children's Librarian, currently working on the Children’s Programs and Services team at The New York Public Library. With so much changing in the children's literature landscape, we are thankful for Jennie's insight and expertise! Check out her interview!

- Q1: How long have you been a librarian? Tell us a bit about your journey.

I have been a Children's Librarian since 2021. I started at NYPL in 2019 as a Children’s Librarian Trainee in the Bronx and completed my MSLIS degree from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

-Q2: What inspired you to become a librarian and tell us what you find the most rewarding

I came to libraries a bit circuitously, as my undergraduate degree was a BFA in Acting. After being on the audition grind and working a million part time jobs I decided that I needed to take space and decide what came next by moving to Paris, France to be an au pair. While in Paris, I thought a lot about what drew me to acting, and I realized I loved sharing stories and experiences with people, and another great way to do that is by sharing books. From there I became a volunteer in the Children’s Department at the American Library in Paris and realized I wanted to become a Children’s Librarian.

I find our work within the community incredibly rewarding. Getting to know children and helping them develop their reading tastes is such a great feeling. One of my favorite memories from working in the branches was handing a copy of Stella’s Stellar Hair to a parent and their child after they had asked for books similar to Hair Love. They brought the book back three days later, and I asked if they enjoyed it and the parent said, “Oh we loved it so much that we bought a copy, so we’re bringing it back so other kids can enjoy this one.” Truly, there is no better feeling than nailing a book recommendation.

-Q3: In your opinion, what role do you think libraries play in supporting education, equality, and access to information?

Libraries play a major role in supporting education, equality, and access to information, and we do so holistically, supporting our communities from birth through adulthood. One major way we support education and equity is by supporting parents and caregivers. Parents or caregivers are often a child’s first and most important teachers, and the library supports these teachers. We offer storytimes to introduce books and early literacy strategies that grown-ups may not be aware of, we introduce concepts that are really important to a child’s development like playing or singing. We provide resources like toys, third spaces for socializing, and information on other community initiatives and resources.

We also continue this support through school with our free, drop-in tutoring service NYPL After School, allowing kids to access high-quality homework help regardless of socioeconomic status. We also offer KidsLIVE programming, introducing kids to authors, so they can learn from the creative people that shaped the stories they like to read. These programs are hybrid (meaning they are in-person and livestreamed online), to create equity so the talks aren’t just limited to the children that are able to show up to a particular branch. Our KidsLIVE talk this month was attended by children in Staten Island, the Bronx, and Manhattan, and focused on the anthology You Were Made for this World: Celebrated Indigenous Voices Speak to Young People. We not only provided access and equity to kids throughout the system, but we were able to celebrate and amplify Indigenous voices.

-Q4: As you are well aware, there is a growing trend of book bans and challenges that is sweeping the nation. Would you share some thoughts about this and how you feel it impacts our community and readership?

I feel like the homogenizing of literature will have negative impacts on kids and their interest in and ability to read. Kids need mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors when they are reading! They need to see their own experience reflected back at them, a mirror. They need to read about what others experience, a window. They also need to read about what could be possible for them to experience, a sliding glass door. Making sure children have access to all three types of reading experiences is important for creating well-rounded, empathetic, global citizens. It also helps children develop their own taste and interest in reading because every child is different. If we are banning books, we’re providing less options. You never know exactly what will get a kid to become a lifelong reader and library user, so having a multitude of high quality options is important. Think of all the times you were told, “everyone should read this book” and the book wasn’t for you? If we are limiting options, children may give up the hunt for their next favorite book.


-Q5: What would you like to say to those who want to fight back against the freedom to read? How have you kept your hope up during this time?

Keep on fighting! For every book challenge that I hear about, I remember the joy that kids find when they find the right book for them. I am also doing my best to uplift and empower authors whose work I’m excited about. That comes in many forms, whether it’s recommending new books to children, inviting authors for author talks, or supporting the purchase of a title for our collections.


-Q6: If you could share one message with people who may not visit libraries often, what would you want them to understand about why libraries are still vital in our society?

Libraries are a great equalizer. Information used to be reserved only for the elite, but public libraries take information, and make it accessible to people from all walks of life. Whether it’s a service you use or not, having access when or if you need it is imperative for an equitable society.

Jennie Mayfield is a Children's Librarian, currently working on the Children’s Programs and Services team at The New York Public Library. She is a slime enthusiast and you can usually find her participating in community theater or reading a middle grade or mystery novel.

Banned Book Resources

Here are some resources to continue the fight beyond Banned Book Week!

• Banned and Challenged Books Bookshop 
• A expansive list of banned books that you can purchase to help support creators

• SCBWI Banned Book Video Playlists
• Check out SCBWI's Banned Book Playlist, full of panel discussions with industry professional, censorship activists and more!

• Consider joining organizations that are on the front line of the fight!
• Unite Against Book Bans
• Pen America
• Authors Against Book Bans
• National Coalition Against Censorship

The SOI Original Art Show And Some Advice From the Pros!

Hi SCBWI friends, and live from New York, it’s the Society of Illustrators Original Art Show! *Queue SNL music*  

Sorry about that, I’m not Bowen Yang. It’s me, Sibu TP! And this past Friday, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the reception for the Original Art Show at the Society of Illustrators.

I had the bonus treat of visiting as a participant in the show. My author-illustrator debut, Home, Home, was selected for the show! Yayy, what an honor. I’ve been submitting to the Society for years and to get in is really so special. 

With over 800 submissions, the Society selected around 245 picture books to be represented in the show this year. 

The building was packed with so many incredible artists, art directors, editors, agents, and many other folks involved in the wonderful process of picture book making. 

I realized something during the show. I saw many faces that I recognized from my time as a pre-published artist. I’m talking about artists I admire, as well as industry professionals I submitted work to and received feedback from. It was nice catching up with a few of these folks, and they were kind enough to remember me and noted my growth over the years. 

I realized that all the incremental changes that I made in that time, which always felt like nothing, all added up. That each individual effort that felt like I was moving in place and I was working in a vacuum, actually had real-world effects that meant something. I realized that all these artists that I admire are also my peers and I really need to get better at making small talk lol

But seriously, if you’re reading this and you’re pre-published and things are not looking up. I just want you to know that I was pretty down on myself for a long time. Everything that you’re doing is helping you get somewhere, even if that somewhere is hard to see right now. So please keep working.

With that, I asked around at the show for some advice for our SCBWI readers! And I got some answers from some heavy-hitters. My prompt: if you could give a picture book creative one bit of advice, what would it be…

Alex Gehringer, Agent, The Bright Agency

“Be a ruthless editor on your own portfolio. Don’t include everything...try to relax and have fun, because that’s when the creativity shows.”

Alex is one of the many great agents at Bright. She's also the mastermind behind the Bright Artists Retreat, which was an incredible and transformative experience. 

I also had the opportunity to catch up with some fantastic ADs, Chelsea and Nicole, as well as my Editor for Home, Home, Aneeka, and they were kind enough to give some advice as well!

Chelsea C. Donaldson, Art Director at HarperCollins Children’s Books

“Be a good editor of your own work, but also have a section in your portfolio for sketches and for what isn’t your most polished work. Show thinking, show something that’s not fully realized yet, but is inspiring."

Nicole de las Heras, Executive Art Director for Trade Picture Books and Preschool at Random House Children’s Books

“Work on finding your own voice and style. Think about what your dream illustration project is and work your portfolio around that."

Aneeka Kalia, Editor, Viking Children’s Books

“Keep doing stuff that you enjoy in your regular life and that will provide good inspiration for you. Don’t be focused on the market and let your life show through your work.”

And finally, from my wonderful Agent, James Burns(Hi, James!):

James Burns, Agent, The Bright Agency

“You’ve got to be authentic to yourself and not cave to pressures or trends. If the work is forced, it’s compromised.”

Authenticity is the key. Personal and authentic. Be yourself and keep working.

Oh and please do yourself the favor of visiting the Original Art Show at the Society of Illustrators, running through January 24, 2026.

Until next time, happy art-making, friends!

If this post interested you, please feel free to reach out and let me know!

You can find me as @sibutp on all the things, mainly Instagram.

Sibudraws.com

About Me

I'm a storyteller. I make cultural and societal picture books that are rich, colorful, and touch on universal stories. I work through the belief that we're all connected by those small moments in life that I try to capture in my illustrations.

Born and raised in New York, I am a first-generation child of immigrants from Kerala, India. I spent a great deal of my childhood years scribbling and sketching, dreaming and imagining. I studied English Literature at Stony Brook University and received my MFA in Illustration at the Hartford Art School.