FALL 2026 · CREATOR'S PRO

Your picture book doesn’t need another “someday.”
It needs a plan.

Picture Book Story Lab begins September 28.

We help aspiring children's book creators turn the idea in their head into a finished picture book manuscript.

You’ll go from stuck or unsure…
to a picture book manuscript you’re proud of.

Even if you’ve never written one before.
Even if you’re not sure your idea is good enough.
Even if finishing things has… historically not been your superpower.

Ten live sessions, real deadlines, and honest feedback, so the book stops being someday.

We help aspiring children's book creators turn the idea in their head
into a finished picture book manuscript.

You’ll go from stuck or unsure…
to a picture book manuscript you’re proud of.

Even if you’ve never written one before.
Even if you’re not sure your idea is good enough.
Even if finishing things has… historically not been your superpower.

Ten live sessions, real deadlines, and honest feedback, so the book stops being someday.

Knowing how to write a picture book isn’t usually the problem.

You can read another craft book.

Watch another webinar.

Save another post about character arcs, page turns, or endings.

And six months from now, your story can still be sitting exactly where it is today:

in your head.

Because information alone doesn’t finish books.

You need to know what to work on next.

You need a reason to sit down and do it.

And when you hit the inevitable “Wait…is any of this actually working?” moment, you need someone who can help you figure out what comes next.

That’s what Creator’s Pro is built for.

You won't just learn how to make a picture book.

You'll actually make one.

At the center of Creator's Pro this fall is Picture Book Story Lab, a guided experience with Arree Chung, Mondays from September 28 through December 14.

You'll move through your book one stage at a time.

“I would not be a published author without Storyteller Academy. I like to say that before SA, I didn’t know how much I didn’t know. Arree’s Making Picture Books class set me on the path that has led to my book launch in just a few weeks!”

– Todd Sturgell, author/illustrator of Except Antarctica

Fall Semester

Live workshops with published authors and editors. Classes built to take you from idea to finished book. These sessions are scheduled across the year at varied days and times and every one is recorded, You're never locked out by your calendar.

10 LIVE SESSIONS

Picture Book Story Lab

ARREE CHUNG

MONDAYS | September 28 – December 14

Write your picture book manuscript start to finish over ten live sessions. Each session takes the next step, from the first idea to a story that works.

Can't make Mondays? Every session is recorded. Plenty of members do the whole Story Lab on replay and still finish.

Ten Sessions to a Finished Picture Book Manuscript

01 · PREMISE: Find the story worth pursuing.

Choose and sharpen your idea so you know who your story is about, what they want, what gets in their way, and why this particular story matters to you.

02 · STRUCTURE: Give your story somewhere to go.

Learn Arree’s Story Framework and use it to shape the beginning, middle, and end of your own story, so you’re never wondering “okay…now what happens?”

03 · FIRST DRAFT: Get it out of your head and onto the page.

Use the structure you’ve built to create real pages and move toward a complete manuscript. Not perfect pages. Pages you can work with.

04 · DIAGNOSIS: Figure out what your story actually needs.

Learn to spot what’s working, where the story loses energy, and what deserves another look, so the question changes from “what do I write?” to “what would make this stronger?”

05 · REVISION: Turn the promising draft into a stronger book.

Refine the story’s voice, pacing, structure, page turns, and ending using Arree’s revision process. Revision is where you discover what the story can become.

BONUS: Where AI fits.

Get clear on where AI fits in your process, and leave with work you’re proud to show.

The secret ingredient isn’t willpower.

It’s momentum.

A lot of aspiring authors don’t quit because they don’t care enough.

They stop because they get stuck.

One confusing scene becomes a week away from the manuscript.

A week becomes a month.

And suddenly that book you were so excited about is back on the “someday” pile.

Story Lab is deliberately built differently.

You’ll have:

You still have to write the book.

We just make it much harder for the book to quietly vanish.

And when you get stuck between sessions…

You don’t have to wait until next week.

Creator’s Pro includes Story Coach AI for between-session support.

Use it to think through an idea, troubleshoot a scene, explore possibilities, or figure out your next move.

Because:

“I got stuck on Tuesday” should not become “I stopped writing until December.”

You’ll also receive your Story Diagnosis + Roadmap to help you understand where your story is now and what deserves your attention next.

And your First Draft Finish Plan breaks your progress into weekly milestones tied to Story Lab.

So instead of waking up wondering,

“What am I supposed to work on today?”

you have an answer.

“But what if my story isn’t good enough?”

Good.

Seriously.

It doesn’t need to be good enough yet.

It needs to exist.

One of the hardest parts of creating a picture book is trying to judge an idea before you’ve given it enough shape to judge.

That’s why Creator’s Pro gives you access to working authors, illustrators, editors, and other experienced professionals who can help you see what you’re too close to see yourself.

Not empty encouragement.

Not somebody rewriting the book for you.

Useful feedback that helps you make the next decision.

“I wanted to learn everything I could about creating picture books. Instructors at Storyteller Academy have introduced me to so many mentor texts. It’s like having a best friend who is super knowledgeable and just piles up your arms with good books. And I don’t just mean the books that have won awards. I mean the books that kids love.”

– Laurie Elmquist, author of City Baby

Hi, I’m Arree Chung.

I’m a published picture book author and illustrator, and the creator of books including Mixed: A Colorful Story and the Ninja! series.

I started Storyteller Academy because there were so many things I wish someone had taught me when I was learning to make picture books.

Since then, I’ve worked with thousands of writers and illustrators at different stages of the process.

Some have gone on to traditional publishing.
Some have self-published.
And some have simply finished a book they’d wanted to make for years.

Creator’s Pro is the program I wish I’d had at the beginning: structured craft instruction, working professionals as teachers, a real creative community, and feedback that helps the work move forward.

If you’re ready to stop thinking about making a picture book and start making one, I’d love to help.

Arree

Story Lab is the starting line.

Creator’s Pro keeps going with you.

Your membership isn’t over when Story Lab wraps on December 14.

Creator’s Pro gives you ongoing access to live workshops and programs designed to help you keep building your skills and your work.

This fall includes sessions such as:

MONTHLY PROGRAMS

1-DAY & 2-DAY WORKSHOPS

You don’t need to do everything.

Use what helps you make the book you’re working on now.

Join by September 17 and get an extra head start.

BONUS: From Idea to Manuscript: Structuring a Story That Sticks

You’ve got the idea.

Now comes the slightly terrifying question:

“How do I turn this into an actual story?”

In these two bonus sessions with Miranda Paul and Lydia Lukidis, you’ll explore how to begin shaping an idea into a manuscript that holds together.

It’s an extra runway before Picture Book Story Lab begins September 28.

Join Creator’s Pro by September 17 to receive the bonus.

WAITLIST BONUSWant first dibs on Story Lab?

Join the Creator’s Pro waitlist for early access, plus early access to Story Coach AI, our new storycheck tool.

See what’s working, what’s weak, and what to fix before you spend months on the wrong version.

PLUS: The first 20 new members get a personal Idea Review from Arree.

Enrollment Closes in...

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Choose the membership that fits you.

PRO MONTHLYFLEXIBLE

$75

per month

Start now. Cancel anytime.

Get the full Creator’s Pro membership:

10-week Picture Book Story Lab
Story Diagnosis + Personal Roadmap
First Draft Finish Plan
Story Coach AI
78+ live classes throughout the year
Live feedback from published professionals
40+ courses + mini-classes
Creator community

Same membership. More flexibility.The private 1:1 is reserved for annual members.

Two-Month Fit Guarantee. Do the Story Lab work for two months. If Creator’s Pro isn’t the right fit, write to us and we’ll refund you in full.

BEST VALUEPRO ANNUAL

$750

per year

Save $150 — that’s 2 months free.

Get a full year of Creator’s Pro, including:

Picture Book Story Lab with Arree. 10 live Mondays to move your story from idea toward draft.
Story Diagnosis + Personal Roadmap. See what’s working, what needs work, and what to tackle next.
First Draft Finish Plan. Clear weekly milestones so you keep moving instead of stalling.
Story Coach AI. Get help brainstorming, revising, and getting unstuck between sessions.
78+ live classes throughout the year. Keep learning, creating, and getting feedback long after Story Lab ends.
Live feedback from published professionals. Bring your real pages and get useful, specific input.
40+ courses + mini-classes. Full access to Storyteller Academy’s complete curriculum.
Creator community. Connect with writers and illustrators who are making books right alongside you.

ANNUAL-ONLY BONUSGet a private 1:1 with Arree, Nadia Salomon, or Tim McCanna.Bring your idea, your draft, or the part that has you stuck.

Two-Month Fit Guarantee. Do the Story Lab work for two months. If Creator’s Pro isn’t the right fit, write to us and we’ll refund you in full.

ONLY 2 SEATSCREATOR’S PRO VIP

$2,250

for the year

Only 2 VIP seats this semester

Everything in Creator’s Pro, plus:

6 private 1:1 story coaching sessions with Arree, spread across your year.
A personal plan for your book, mapped out together in your first session.
Direct feedback on your manuscript and dummy as your book takes shape.
Someone who knows your story and keeps you moving when life gets busy.

CREATOR’S PRO VIPEverything in Pro, plus private story coaching with Arree.

Try your first session. If it’s not the right fit, get a full refund within 14 days.

Join by September 17 and get an extra head start.You’ll also get From Idea to Manuscript: Structuring a Story That Sticks — two live sessions with Miranda Paul and Lydia Lukidis on September 19 & 20.Story Lab starts September 28. Enrollment closes September 22 at 11:59 PM PT.

Worried you’ll pay…and still be stuck?

We understand why.

So don’t decide whether Creator’s Pro works for you based on promises. Try it.

The Two-Month Fit Guarantee

Participate in Story Lab live or watch the replays.
Complete the exercises.
During your first month, our goal is to help you identify and develop a children’s book idea you’re excited about.
During your second month, you’ll begin turning that idea into your story.
By then, you’ll have enough real experience with Creator’s Pro to decide whether it’s right for you.

If it isn’t, write to us within your first two months and ask for a full refund.

Do the work. See if it works for you. Keep going only if it does.

They Took the Leap and Brought Their Stories to Life

“Storyteller has provided for me a wonderful resource for classes and professional feedback. The instructors are knowledgeable and caring. They truly do want to help us to create our best work possible. Even though Storyteller Academy is growing larger every year, it still feels like family to me. The connections I’ve made here are real and meaningful.”

– Bonnie Kelso, author/illustrator of Nudi Gill: Poison Powerhouse of the Sea

“Storyteller Academy gave me the encouragement and tools to turn my fine art background into a burgeoning career in illustration. This means the world to me, because, I have always known that I wanted to write and illustrate children’s stories since I was little girl stapling copy paper together to make my own books. However, I was lacking mentorship and direction; I never knew anyone who had walked the path before me. I am grateful to Storyteller Academy for carving a clear path that showed me that my lifelong dream is tangible with actionable steps and building supportive relationships.”

– LaTonya Jackson, Illustrator of Hair and the Holy Spirit

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Fall 2026 semester start?

Picture Book Story Lab begins Monday, September 28 at 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT) and runs ten Monday sessions through the finale on December 14. Enroll any time before the cart closes Tuesday, September 22 at 11:59 PM PT (2:59 AM ET Wednesday).

Do you have a scheduled time for the classes?

SEPTEMBER
Sat Sep 19, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM PDT (1:00–3:00 PM EDT)
From Idea to Manuscript: Structuring a Story That Sticks, Day 1 (Miranda Paul / Lydia Lukidis)
Sun Sep 20, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM PDT (1:00–3:00 PM EDT)
From Idea to Manuscript, Day 2 (Miranda Paul / Lydia Lukidis)
Wed Sep 23, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM PDT (2:00–3:00 PM EDT)
Story and Art Feedback Workshop (Nadia Salomon)
Sat Sep 26, 9:00–9:45 AM PDT (12:00–12:45 PM EDT)
Editor Versus: Illustrators and Illustrations (Melissa Manlove)
Mon Sep 28, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT)
Picture Book Story Lab, session 1 of 10 (Arree)
Wed Sep 30, 5:00–6:00 PM PDT (8:00–9:00 PM EDT)
Drawing 1, session 1 of 4 (Arree)
OCTOBER
Mon Oct 5, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT)
Story Lab, session 2 of 10
Tue Oct 6, 5:00–7:00 PM PDT (8:00–10:00 PM EDT)
Deconstruct Mentor Texts, Day 1 (Nadia Salomon)
Wed Oct 7, 5:00–7:00 PM PDT (8:00–10:00 PM EDT)
Deconstruct Mentor Texts, Day 2 (Nadia Salomon)
Mon Oct 12, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT)
Story Lab, session 3 of 10
Wed Oct 14, 5:00–6:00 PM PDT (8:00–9:00 PM EDT)
Drawing 1, session 2 of 4
Sat Oct 17, 9:00–9:45 AM PDT (12:00–12:45 PM EDT)
Editor Versus: Dialogue (Melissa Manlove)
Mon Oct 19, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT)
Story Lab, session 4 of 10
Sat Oct 24, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM PDT (1:00–3:00 PM EDT)
Holiday Story and Art Series, session 1 of 3 (Arree)
Mon Oct 26, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT)
Story Lab, session 5 of 10
Wed Oct 28, 5:00–6:00 PM PDT (8:00–9:00 PM EDT)
Drawing 1, session 3 of 4
NOVEMBER
Mon Nov 2
no Story Lab, Halloween break
Mon Nov 9, 5:00 PM PST (8:00 PM EST)
Story Lab, session 6 of 10
Sat Nov 14, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM PST (1:00–3:00 PM EST)
Holiday Story and Art Series, session 2 of 3 (Vanessa Newton)
Mon Nov 16, 5:00 PM PST (8:00 PM EST)
Story Lab, session 7 of 10
Wed Nov 18, 5:00–6:00 PM PST (8:00–9:00 PM EST)
Drawing 1, session 4 of 4
Sat Nov 21, 9:00–9:45 AM PST (12:00–12:45 PM EST)
Editor Versus: The Quiet Manuscript (Melissa Manlove)
Nov 22–28
Thanksgiving break, no new teaching
Mon Nov 30, 5:00 PM PST (8:00 PM EST)
Story Lab, session 8 of 10
DECEMBER
Mon Dec 7, 5:00 PM PST (8:00 PM EST)
Story Lab, session 9 of 10
Thu Dec 10, 5:00–7:00 PM PST (8:00–10:00 PM EST)
Holiday Story and Art Series, session 3 of 3 (Arree)
Sat Dec 12, 9:00–9:45 AM PST (12:00–12:45 PM EST)
Editor Versus: Why Editors Say No, and Why They Say Yes (Melissa Manlove)
Mon Dec 14, 5:00 PM PST (8:00 PM EST)
Picture Book Story Lab finale, session 10 of 10
Dec 15 onward
year-end break, no new teaching

What if I can’t attend the live workshops?

Every live workshop is recorded and added to the course library. Many members work through the program using the replays.

How much time do I need each week?

Most members spend about 2 to 3 hours a week: roughly an hour in the live Story Lab session and another hour or two on your own work. But it flexes to your life.

Every session is recorded, so you can watch on your own schedule, and you can put in more during a free week and less during a busy one. The members who finish aren’t the ones with the most time. They’re the ones who keep showing up, even in small pieces.

I’m a writer, not an illustrator (or vice versa), will this work for me?

You belong here. You do not need to illustrate your own book to participate in Story Lab or Creator’s Pro. Picture books live at the intersection of words and pictures. Creator’s Pro is built for both. We have writers learning illustration fundamentals and illustrators learning story structure side-by-side.

Booking your bonus 1:1 with Arree, Nadia, or Tim

After you join, you’ll get an email with a link to book your session.

Can I switch from Monthly to Annual later?

Yes. Just email support@storytelleracademy.com and we’ll switch you over and pro-rate your remaining time.

Is there a refund policy?

Yes. Try Creator’s Pro for two months. Come to the Story Lab workshops live or watch the replays, and do the exercises. If Pro isn’t the right fit, write to us inside those first two months and we’ll refund you in full.

What happens after the fall semester ends?

Your membership continues. Storyteller Academy runs three semesters a year (Spring, Summer, Fall), so when one wraps, the next begins. Annual members get all three semesters in one payment.

I’ve never written a children’s book before?

You’re exactly who Story Lab is designed to help. We’ll begin with the idea and build from there. You don’t need a finished manuscript, or even a perfect premise, to start.

I have several ideas and don’t know which one to choose.

Also normal. The opening phase of Story Lab is designed to help you clarify and strengthen your premise before you commit months of energy to it.

I’m not sure whether I’m a writer or illustrator yet.

That’s okay too. You don’t need to pick an identity before you’re allowed to create. Start with the book.

I’m busy. What if I fall behind?

You can use the recordings and work at your own pace. The live schedule is there to create momentum, not punish you for having a life.

I’ve bought courses before and didn’t finish them.

Creator’s Pro isn’t built around giving you another giant pile of lessons to consume. Story Lab gives you a defined project, dated sessions, milestones, feedback, and a cohort moving through the same process. And the Two-Month Fit Guarantee gives you time to actually experience that difference before deciding whether to stay.

Will Creator’s Pro get me published?

No program can promise publication, an agent, or a book deal. Creator’s Pro helps you develop your craft, finish stronger work, get informed feedback, and understand more about the professional picture-book world. What happens after that depends on your work, your goals, and the path you choose.

There will always be another reason to wait.

You could wait until life gets quieter.

Until you know more.

Until you find the perfect idea.

Until you feel like a “real” author.

But books don’t get written when you finally feel ready.

They get written one decision, one page, and one revision at a time.

Picture Book Story Lab begins Monday, September 28, 5:00 PM PDT (8:00 PM EDT).

If you want this to be the season your picture book finally moves from “someday” to something real, come join us.

Creator’s Pro

$750/year, save $150 and receive a private 1:1 during this Fall enrollment

$75/month, cancel anytime

Enrollment closes Tuesday, September 22 at 11:59 PM PT (2:59 AM ET Wednesday).

Join by September 17 to also receive From Idea to Manuscript: Structuring a Story That Sticks.

Your picture book doesn’t need another “someday.”It needs a plan.