Creating Compelling Picture Books: A Workshop for Aspiring Author-Illustrators

Step into the magical world of picture book storytelling in this immersive workshop, where words and images come together to create something truly special. Guided by award-winning picture book creator, J.H. Low, participants will explore the unique language of picture books—from crafting compelling manuscripts and designing memorable characters to mastering the art of visual storytelling.

Through engaging activities, hands-on exercises, and lively discussions, participants will develop essential skills in story structure, illustration techniques, and narrative flow. With a blend of theory and practice, and peer and trainer feedback, participants will gain the confidence and expertise to bring their ideas to life.

Participants will leave with a complete picture book concept and the confidence to captivate young readers.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Cancellation:

The programme can be cancelled or postponed two weeks before the programme date if the minimum number of 8 participants is not met. Participants will be fully refunded for workshops cancelled by us.

Participants who are unable to attend a workshop they have registered for are to inform us of the reason two weeks before the workshop date. They will be fully refunded in the event of extenuating and mitigating circumstances (E.g. illness, bereavement, accidents) . Those who inform us up to 5 working days before the workshop date will receive a 50% refund. Those who did not turn up at the workshop will not receive a refund.

Upon registration, you are deemed to have read and understood the cancellation and withdrawal policy and accept the terms contained therein.

Sat, 16 & 23 Aug 2025

9:30am - 5pm

Singapore Book Council Training Room

VIEW MAP

Course Fee: $192 - $320

Eventbrite Registration Fee: $6.31 - $9.80

Promotions

Request promo code via email to [email protected] to enjoy:

40% off for students and seniors*
20% off buddy tickets (min. 2 tickets)
20% off past participants of SBC Academy
10% off for Kinokuniya Privilege Card members

* Please be prepared to present your student pass or senior citizen card on the day of the talk for verification purposes.

Course Objectives:

Gain an understanding of the narrative language of picture books and how text and images work together
Create interesting storyboards that reflect their creative ideas
Design memorable, expressive characters that bring the story to life
Exercise your imagination and create interesting storyboards that narrate your creative ideas of the picture book.

By the end, participants will have the confidence and skills to create their own picture book, from concept to finished art.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

Analyze and apply the principles of picture book storytelling, integrating text and images effectively.
Develop and write an engaging picture book manuscript tailored for young readers.
Design unique, expressive characters that enhance and support the narrative.
Complete a storyboard of their own picture book concept, demonstrating a full understanding of the picture book creation process.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

J. H. Low

J.H. Low is an award-winning author-illustrator of picture books. His book Lemonade Sky (2021) is featured in the prestigious White Raven catalogue 2021 and also won him the Hedwig Anuar Children's Book Award 2022. His recent publications include two graphic novels: Mr Goodchild (2021)and The Visitor (2022). Through these two books, J.H. Low explores existential issues with the picture book form and challenges conventional notion that the picture book is only for children’s consumption.

J.H. Low has a BA (Hons) in Fine Art, a MA in Children’s Book Illustration, and a PhD in Art.