Copyright on material throughout this site belongs to Maria Lavis, all rights reserved, June 2008.
Class Information
Classes are designed to walk kids through the process of authoring and illustrating their own book in the same simplified
steps that a real author/illustrator would take. Emphasis on creating memorable characters, gripping plots and illustrations
that best draw out story elements will be accentuated. Highlights of the class include:

Having Fun!
- Writing and illustrating one's own book is just about the most fun
one can have (aside from playing with kittens)
- Imagination--how to make it your new best friend
Writing
- Discover the elements that make for a great story
- Plot: learn the tricks of the trade of crafting a page turning yarn
- Character: Delve into creating heart warming protagonists and
antagonists that will get your goat
Illustrating
- Create initial sketches that highlight and balance story elements
- Develop sketches into final illustrations in publishable format
Publishing
- Make one quality keepsake hard copy book.
- Have the opportunity to electronically "publish"
- Real world publishing resources will be provided