Asian Children’s Writers And Illustrators Conference 2008
Come June, children’s books will be propelled into prominence as acclaimed Asian writers, illustrators, publishers, distributors and retailers gather in Singapore for the Asian Children’s Writers And Illustrators Conference 2008 (ACWIC).
Organised by the National Book Development Council of Singapore, the sixth ACWIC boasts a series of keynote addresses, seminars and workshops conducted by renowned speakers and industry players including Professor Shirley Geok-lin, Dr Ken Spillman, John Danalis and Selina Lee.
The theme for this year’s Conference is: popularising Asian Children’s books worldwide. “We hope to bring together even more Asian writers, illustrators, publishers, distributors and retailers for this event. It is time to give Asian children’s books the right attention and recognition that they deserve. As for friends from outside Asia, this event serves a meaningful introduction to Asian Children’s literature and books,” said Ms Serene Wee, Chairperson of the National Book Development Council of Singapore.
Professor Shirley Geok-lin Lim, recipient of the Commonwealth Poetry Prize and two American Book Awards, will kickoff the Conference Programme with an overview of children’s literature specific to the new generation in Asian cultures. She will also share her experiences in writing Princess Shawl, her latest young adult novel. Acclaimed author Suchen Christine Lim, who has had 11 of her children’s stories published as Big Books by SNP Singapore for the Ministry of Education, will provide a brief history of stories written for Singapore schools as well as tips on writing: how to play, picture and pitch stories for children.
From conceptualisation to print, there is a host of preparatory and research efforts that goes into the publication process. Kelley Cheng, Editorial Director of Page One Publishing and Creative Director of Page One Group, will offer a comprehensive overview of this process, by exploring a hitherto much neglected aspect of the publication value chain. Using the analogy of architecture, she will talk about basic fundamentals such as form, function, structure, space, rhythm, pace; and how to fuse these elements into a harmonious whole. John Danalis, of acclaimed design and illustration studio, Peripheral Vision, will build upon this and offer insights on how the illustration and design of children’s books can be improved.
Senior National Library Board (NLB) staff members Lai Kuan and Panna will also examine the role of libraries in promoting children’s books. They will discuss the history, the scope and coverage of the NLB Children’s books collection and the challenges of developing such a collection. Lai Kuan and Panna will also talk about Singapore children’s literature, such as the categorization of the collection by NLB, the influences and changing trends observed in Singapore children’s literature.
In addition, ACWIC 2008 will examine the exciting opportunities that arise with the dawn of the Digital Age. Dr Ken Spillman, one of Australia’s more prolific authors, will demonstrate how the reach and influence of different media can provide considerable leverage in the development of children’s literature. Quality children’s books can be converted into screenplays for theatre and film while attractive characters can be developed into animations and even merchandise.
Book launches and industry network sessions are some of the activities that ACWIC participants will be invited to. Cozy up with noted writers, illustrators and publishers while learning about the intricacies of the children’s book industry. Deliberate on the style of illustration most suitable for your book while establishing useful ties with industry professionals. Whether you are a budding author or seasoned industry player, ACWIC 2008 offers a host of opportunities to the fantastic world of children’s books.
