Have you tried to write a fantasy novel lately? What an array of choices. There's serious, funny, outrageous. Set in the real world, a medieval world, an out-of whack world. Aliens and warlocks may travel from one place to another. Magic makers may be schooled or found as babies. Shakespeare and Mordred and fairies may make an appearance or anchor the story. Dystopia, utopia, may be the background. The book may be novella length, grand epic size, full of poetry and songs. There may be sex, drugs, and rock-and-roll. It may be a graphic novel.

But whatever your choices, do not forget graceful and exciting writing, great storytelling, a landscape of the heart. Three wonderful fantasy novelists will talk amongst themselves and you can overhear their conversation: Jane Yolen, Robert J. Harris and Elizabeth Wein at your service.
elizabethwein.com
janeyolen.com

Nicola is an award-winning and best-selling writer across the age range for children and teenagers. In the first half of her seminar, she analyses the differences between writing for 10-12s and writing for teenagers, including the different ages of teenager. She will talk about different markets and how to pitch your work appropriately.

In the second half of the seminar, Nicola will use her knowledge gleaned from contact with many authors, publishers and agents to share with you what it is that will make publishers say yes - or no - to your book. There is no one better placed to give you the inside info on this tricky subject. But Nicola wants to know what you particularly want to hear about - if you can email your very brief questions or topic ideas to ra@scbwiscotland.co.uk and she will try to cover everything, and give lots of time for discussion and Q&A.

Session Three: 1.00pm - 2.00pm
Nicola Morgan (part two) - Help I need a Publisher!
Nicola's brand new novel, Wasted, will be offered as a prize for a competition
she will set.
nicolamorgan.co.uk
pen2publication.co.uk
helpineedapublisher.blogspot.com

Sara is eager to share her stories and thoughts on the construction of a picture book. She will be discussing what it means to think in pictures and the importance of understanding the rhythm of page turning.

She’ll bring along examples of her books, from first scratches to finished product
and all the stories (some funny, some heartbreaking) of everything that comes in between.

Sara will also be taking the mystery out of making a dummy, showing you step by step how to make something the publisher can really get their hands on.
www.sarapinto.com

Today she will lead a workshop on shaping a story for young adults. The emphasis will be on creating stories that work with characters that are believable. There will also be plenty of tips and suggestions about how to get a head start with the Bridge House imprints.