The Power of the Picture Book Spread

Name: The Power of the Picture Book Spread
Start: 2026-04-08T19:00:00-05:00
Location: Dandelion Bookshop

Schedule

Wed, 08 Apr, 2026 at 07:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

Dandelion Bookshop | Oak Park, IL

To write an unputdownable, rereadable picture book, think in terms of spreads! In this interactive discussion, Sarah Aronson will offer ideas and inspiration to help you craft a picture book, including character arc, narrative, setting, and picture book structure. With the help of mentor texts, Every Monday Mabel and Touch the Sky as well as Sarah’s picture books, we will talk about every aspect of the process, from drafting to revision.
Bring a manuscript and questions! Let’s have a picture book party!
BIO:
Sarah Aronson began writing for kids and teens when someone in an exercise class dared her to try. Since then, she has earned an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults and published a variety of books including the picture books, Just Like Rube Goldberg, illustrated by Robert Neubecker, Brand New Bubbe, illustrated by Ariel Landy, and Abzuglutely!: Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug, illustrated by Andrea D’Aquino.
When Sarah is not writing or reading (or making great soup or riding her bike along Lake Michigan), she is talking to readers about creativity, writing, social action, and of course, sparkle power! She loves working with other writers one on one or in one of her classes at the amazing Boyds Mills Foundation (formerly Highlights). Warning: When she gets really excited, she makes funny faces and talks with her hands. Don’t be shocked if she talks about the power of play.
In March 2024, Sarah was awarded the Prairie Writer Award for contributions to literature and literacy. In 2025, she joined the Board of Directors of the Jane Addams Peace Association. She lives in Chicago, Illinois.