Courses
A full library of writing and illustration courses. Everything you need to know at your fingertips.
Do you dream of writing a children's book?
You have one (or a million!) story ideas that continue to pester you. You think, "Someday I'll write this."
Maybe someday is today.
What We Offer
Coaching
Take your storytelling to the next level with direct coaching from an industry professional.
All the courses. In your time. On your terms.
With Makers Plus, you have access to our courses 24/7 for the duration of your membership.
Your Story Coaches
Published professionals help you achieve your creative goals
Arree Chung
Award-winning author/illustrator of Mixed and the founder of Storyteller Academy.
Jim Averbeck
Author/illustrator. His first book, In a Blue Room, was a Charlotte Zolotow Honor book.
Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Illustrator of around 90 children's books who is dedicated to including children of all ethnic backgrounds in her stories and artwork.
Julie Downing
Award-winning author/illustrator noted for her jewel-like illustrations. She has illustrated over 50 picture books.
Laurie Keller
Award-winning author/illustrator of 2017 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award for We Are Growing and many picture books.
FEATURED
How to Write Children's Books in 7 Steps
Everything from idea generation to publication, we'll tackle all your questions and help you take that first daring step toward your creative dream.
Member Success Stories
Every student follows his/her own path to writing a children's book. Explore their journeys to success.
Nadia Salomon
Author, Goodnight Ganesha
READ STORY
Todd Sturgell
Author/Illustrator, Except Antartica
READ STORY
Lily LaMotte
Author, Measuring Up
READ STORY
Charlotte Watson Sherman
Author/Illustrator, Brown Sugar Babe
READ STORY
Member Success Stories
Every student follows his/her own path to "Yes!" Explore their journeys to success.
Latest Videos
Everyone has a story to tell.
"Storyteller Academy has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams even when I thought they were impossible. Also, my critique group is an amazing rag-tag group of authors/ illustrators that I adore.”
Tracy Ramey
Author
“Thanks to Storyteller Academy, a group of really nice people with differing backgrounds but similar heartfelt aspirations meets twice a month to share stories. Using principles of Storyteller courses, our writing is progressing and we appreciate belonging to Storyteller Academy!”
Cindy Leopold-Ritsko
Author/Illustrator
“I am very privileged to have worked with amazing authors for my illustrative projects. Doing Storyteller academy has been my highlight – learning a lot from all the classes and fellow friends here who have the same struggles and joy as me.”
Lisa Wee
Author/Illustrator
"Storyteller Academy has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams even when I thought they were impossible. Also, my critique group is an amazing rag-tag group of authors/ illustrators that I adore.”
Tracy Ramey
Author
“Thanks to Storyteller Academy, a group of really nice people with differing backgrounds but similar heartfelt aspirations meets twice a month to share stories. Using principles of Storyteller courses, our writing is progressing and we appreciate belonging to Storyteller Academy!”
Cindy Leopold-Ritsko
Author/Illustrator
“I am very privileged to have worked with amazing authors for my illustrative projects. Doing Storyteller academy has been my highlight – learning a lot from all the classes and fellow friends here who have the same struggles and joy as me.”
Lisa Wee
Author/Illustrator
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Learn the picture book basics from an award-winning author/illustrator.
free guideS
Storytelling Guide for Picture Books
If you have story ideas and want to learn how to make a picture book, click below!
Free Guide: How to Draw and Invent
Learn how to draw and invent out of your imagination. This step-by-step guide makes drawing simple, easy and fun.
Submission Ready?
Get Ariel's and Melissa's (editors at Chronicle Books) submission checklist so that you can query with confidence!