Crafting Picture Book Magic in a Weekend

Your Quick Guide to Creating a Captivating First Draft

What if you could craft a complete picture book manuscript that you feel good about in one weekend, from developing an idea to revising and editing?

This tutorial is no nonsense, no fluff, just concrete tips for getting a solid draft done quickly. Drawing from my years of trial and error, I've condensed the essential steps into a helpful guide that will empower you to craft magic in your picture book writing journey.

Who This Tutorial Is For:

It's for beginner picture book writers who are looking for direction as they aspire to write a solid first draft. Primarily designed for fiction picture book writers, the concepts and approaches presented may resonate with those crafting narrative nonfiction picture books, including PB biographies. Experienced writers seeking a more efficient drafting approach may learn valuable insights too.

Meet the Creator:

I’m Ryan Bani Tahmaseb, and I’m an author, K-12 learning coach, and curriculum developer. My debut picture book, Rostam’s Picture-Day Pusteen, will be published by Charlesbridge in summer 2024. As a published author and educator, my insights are rooted in real-world experience and a passion for helping aspiring writers succeed. I started writing picture books by carrying around a single idea from a story my dad told me years ago until I learned how to write a picture book manuscript. That very story idea became Rostam’s Picture-Day Pusteen.

Product Walkthrough:

Embark on a weekend journey with step-by-step guidance:

1. Choosing Your Weekend: Pick the perfect time to focus on your writing.

2. Pre-Writing Exercise: Generate ideas and clarify your vision.

3. Developing Your Idea: Find a story idea that genuinely excites you.

4. Committing to Your Idea: Understand why commitment is crucial.

5. Character Development: Explore your main character's desires and transformations.

6. Plot Outline: Craft a solid foundation for your story.

7. Drafting in Manuscript Format: Tips for a successful drafting process.

8. Productivity and Knowing When to Stop: Balancing progress and perfection.

9. Encouragement, Motivation, and Ruthless Editing: Stay inspired and cut ruthlessly.

10. Efficient Proofreading and Sharing Your Work: Polish your draft and confidently share it.

Bonus Resource List: Gain access to a carefully curated list of resources that I strongly endorse based on my own experience.

Optional $50 Add-On Critique: Receive personalized feedback on your work from an experienced author and educator.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long is the tutorial? The tutorial is approximately 40 minutes.

How to access support? Simply contact me for any assistance or questions.

Writing my first picture book manuscript changed my life. The journey from a mere concept to a solid first draft is a transformative experience. Through this tutorial, I aim to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration needed to embark on your own writing journey. Crafting a picture book is not just about typing or writing words—it's about creating magic, and your unique story deserves to be brought to life. Your journey to crafting picture book magic starts here. Let's bring your story to life!