Writing and Designing Children's Books

Hosted by Creative Edinburgh, Creative Circles runs every month. For July, we're in-person.

This event is a casual monthly meetup for creatives, techies, makers, students, freelance folk and everyone in between who is interested in discovering more about what's happening in Edinburgh. Take a break from work, share ideas and advice, make new connections, and find your next collaborator.

July's Conversation: Writing and Designing Children's Books

In July’s event, we’ll be exploring what it takes to get your children’s book off the ground. How do you engage with publishers? How can you get your illustrations commissioned? Experienced author David MacPhail and illustrator Kate McLelland will be joining us to share their journey into the world of children’s books.

All Creative Circles in 2024 are generously sponsored by an accounting software that lets accountants, small businesses and landlords file Self-assessments directly to HMRC, saving time and reducing stress. We are excited to be working with FreeAgent and can't wait to introduce them to our members at the upcoming events.

Creative Circles is for members of Creative Edinburgh. Not a member yet? It's free to join click .

About our Speakers

David Macphail

An award-winning author of over 30 books, both fiction and non-fiction. He left school to travel the world and have adventures, working many jobs including as a pool waiter and a chicken farmer. After studying Philosophy at Aberdeen University, he worked as a ghost tour guide before he began publishing books. He now lives in Perthshire with his family.

Kate McLelland

Has illustrated over 80 books, ranging from board books with Little Tiger Press and Scholastic to Natural History books with Bloomsbury. Since completing her Masters in Illustration, she has worked as an illustrator, picture book author, designer and art director. She has a lifelong love of nature and tries to bring this passion into every project she works on. She now lives in West Lothian with her family.

Running Order

16:30 - 16:45: Welcome everyone to the session & introduction from Creative Edinburgh

16:45 - 17 :45: Discussion with speakers

17:45: Community announcements, Creative Edinburgh news

18:00: Socialising with others in attendance

18:30: Thank you and farewell

Can't make the whole event? Just join us for what you can.

Got something to shout about during our community announcements? Get in touch with us at .

How are we making sure this event is accessible?

There won't be a BSL interpreter present at the event.

There will be no amplified music or bright lights used throughout the event. If you have other access requirements, please let us know during registration or contact us directly, and we will do our very best to help.

Have we forgotten anything? Please help us learn and let us know.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our team at [email protected].

About Creative Edinburgh

Creative Edinburgh is a registered Scottish Charity (SC052838) committed to helping creatives thrive. Through events, career support and advocacy, we bring together and help grow the city’s creative community, providing a space for creation, collaboration and connection at every stage of your career. Creative Edinburgh is supported by Creative Scotland as one of the Regularly Funded Organisations (RFOs).

To become a member of Creative Edinburgh, click .

Host or Publisher Creative Edinburgh