8- Week Advanced Course for Young Authors ( In-Person)

Young Author Studio: From Story to Storybook

An immersive creative journey into storytelling, illustration, and book design for aspiring young authors and illustrators.

Designed for children aged 8-12

Duration: 8 weeks

Every Saturday from October 18 to December 13

Each class runs for 120 mins

Time: 14:00-16:00

Group Size: Ideal for 8-12 kids

Skill Level: Advanced

Locations: SWISS COTTAGE LIBRARY, Swiss Cottage, Central Library, 88 Avenue Road, London NW3 3HA

MORE HOUSE SCHOOL, 22-24 Pont Street, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 0AA

NORTH KENSINGTON LIBRARY,108 Ladbroke Grove, London W11 1PZ

🧠 Who This Course Is For:

This course is designed for young creators (ages 8–14) who have prior experience with storytelling and illustration—whether through a beginner course, personal projects, or classroom learning. Participants should be comfortable with developing story ideas, drafting short narratives, and creating basic character sketches.

✏️ Recommended Prerequisites:

• Completed the “How to Become a Young Author” introduction course, or equivalent

• Basic understanding of story structure (beginning, middle, end)

• Familiarity with creating characters and simple illustrations

• Enthusiasm for creativity, writing, and visual storytelling

• Ability to work independently on a multi-week project

📚 What You'll Do at This Level:

In this advanced course, students will:

• Develop a full children’s book from idea to layout

• Strengthen writing and storytelling voice

• Improve drawing, coloring, and book illustration techniques

• Create character profiles, storyboards, and polished spreads

• Gain basic experience with book design and digital tools

• Showcase their original stories and artwork at the end

Course Overview

Over 8 weeks, students will explore storytelling elements in greater depth, develop characters and worlds, strengthen their drawing and illustration techniques, and learn the basics of book layout and digital tools to create their very own picture book.

Week 1: Introduction to Storytelling – Crafting Your Narrative Voice

Deepen understanding of storytelling fundamentals and develop a unique narrative voice.

Week 2: Character Design – Creating Memorable and Dynamic Characters

Develop complex characters with depth and relatability. Create detailed character profiles including personality, motivations, and growth arcs.

Week 3: World-Building and Plot Structure – Building Immersive Settings and Engaging Plots

Learn techniques for creating immersive settings that enhance the story. Explore advanced plot structures (e.g., three-act structure, hero’s journey) and construct vivid worlds and compelling plot lines that captivate readers.

Week 4: Writing Your Story – From Draft to Polished Manuscript

Develop writing skills to craft clear, engaging, and age-appropriate text and focus on dialogue, pacing, and language suited for picture books.

Week 5: The Art of Illustration – Visual Storytelling Basics

Understand how illustrations complement and enhance the narrative and analyze different illustration styles and mediums.

Week 6: Drawing Techniques for Your Book – Developing Your Artistic Skills

Build foundational drawing skills tailored for children’s book illustration.

Week 7: Designing the Book Layout – Bringing Text and Images Together

Learn principles of book design and layout for picture books. Introduction to page composition, typography, and flow. Design sample spreads combining text and illustrations.

Week 8: Exploring Digital Art Creation and Picture Book Production

Overview of digital illustration software and tools suitable for kids. Prepare a sample picture book spread using digital or mixed media.

⭐️ Course Outcome

By the end of the course, each student will have:

• A fully written short children’s story

• Multiple finished illustrations

• A complete book layout (print or digital dummy book)

• Greater confidence in both writing and illustrating

This curriculum balances creative exploration with technical skill-building, empowering young creators to produce polished, professional-quality children’s picture books. Each week builds on the last, fostering confidence, artistic growth, and storytelling mastery. 🌟📚🎨

Here’s a video recap of the “Easter special story creation” workshop, hosted by children’s book author and illustrator Jo Rooks.
Want to give it a try? You can book a 3-hour trial workshop before joining the full course!

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about our exciting Children's Course:

1. Will parents or guardians be allowed to stay with their children?

Yes! Parents or guardians are welcome to stay during the workshop if they wish. However, it’s not mandatory. Our experienced workshop team, along with Jo Rooks, will ensure your child feels comfortable, engaged, and supported throughout the event. If you decide to stay, we kindly ask that you let your child enjoy the creative process independently, with minimal interruptions.

2.Do participants need to bring anything?

No, we’ve got everything covered! All materials, including sketchpads, pencils, colors, paints, and collage materials, will be provided. If your child has a favorite set of tools or a specific material they’d like to incorporate, they are welcome to bring it along!

3.What if my child prefers writing over illustration (or vice versa)?

That’s totally okay! The course encourages both skills but is flexible and supportive. If your child is stronger in one area, we’ll guide them to explore and grow in the other without pressure. Collaboration is also encouraged—some kids choose to pair their writing with a friend’s illustrations and vice versa.

4.What if my child misses a class?
No worries! We understand life gets busy. Catch-up resources or a quick recap will be provided to help your child stay on track.

5.Will there be homework between classes?

There will be light, creative assignments each week (like sketching or writing 1–2 pages). All activities are designed to be fun, manageable, and meaningful—encouraging progress without overwhelming the student.

6.Will children get to keep their creations?
Absolutely! All children will take home their finished storyboard or book draft, along with a mini publishing kit to inspire them to continue their creative journey.

7. How is this course different from a regular writing or arts class?
This course combines storytelling, art, and hands-on creativity, helping children develop their voice as both writers and illustrators. It's not just writing or arts—it's the full book-making experience!

8.What is the refund policy?
We offer a full refund if cancellation is made at least 3 days before the course start date. After that, refunds are not available due to limited space and preparation costs.Besides, if the booking does not reach a certain number, the class might be cancelled. Cancelled classes will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Our Autumn Term Courses are now open for booking

- Enjoy huge early bird discounts today!