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Kindling Words is a retreat designed for published children’s book professionals. We cultivate a warm, supportive, non-competitive environment, where everyone feels part of the group. The village of Kindling Words is working hard to welcome all published creators to our intentionally diverse community of children’s book professionals. Below are some answers to questions that have been asked by prior attendees.
Kindling Words is a retreat for professional writers, editors, and illustrators in the children’s book industry. As the publishing world changes, we’ve found that we need to be more specific about what we define as the “industry.”
If you are an author or illustrator you must have at least one book published or under contract with a publisher that meets all of these criteria (check list below). If you are an editor you must currently work for a publishing house that meets ALL of these criteria, or if you are currently an editor whose prior work history matches these criteria, you are also eligible (and please check all five boxes on the email signup form).
Please contact the hotel to let them know your restrictions. Following up with that person by email would be appreciated.
None. Rosters of speakers are published in good faith, and courtesies are extended to faculty who may at the last minute be unable to meet their obligations.
That said, the workshops are only 90 minutes out of each day. The real wonder of attending Kindling Words is the deep intimate time we have getting to know each other and joining in spark-space discussions. The workshops are the wrapping on the package, but the gift is being there, with your colleagues, for the whole weekend.
We set up a library space at Kindling Words for everyone to share their newest (or favorite) work. Please feel free to bring a copy of your latest book to share. Editors should also bring a book they have recently worked on (and please remember to add a note including your name, so we know who edited it)!
You are welcome to take your book back home with you at the end of the weekend, but if you would rather leave it behind, it will be donated to a local library or literature organization.
Please do not bring promotional materials.
We’re sorry, but that is not possible as it would be unfair to the other people who have registered through the lottery.
No, we’re sorry, but every person must register for the lottery separately so that we ensure a fair process for all registrants.
For Kindling Words East, if you drop out before the 12/1 deadline, you will be able to receive a full refund. Due to our commitments for the costs of running the event, we are not able to make refunds after that date. If you drop out after 12/1, your fees will be redirected to our scholarship fund and you will receive a receipt for a charitable donation.
For Kindling Words West, the tuition, room and board deposits are not refundable, but can be transferred to another person, and they can reimburse you.
We understand that last minute crises can arise. Unfortunately we are unable to reserve spots for future years when someone needs to cancel.
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