Call for Participation – Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop

CALL FOR PARTICIPATION – IBADAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE WORKSHOP

 

Are you a children's writer or interested in writing for children? Here’s a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of children’s literature at this month’s Free Children's Literature Workshop!

DATE: 30th November, 2024
VENUE: Oyo State Library Board, Opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State
TIME: 12:00 PM

Topics to Be Covered:

• Understanding Children's Literature: Exploring its significance and impact.
• Genres of Children's Books: Picture books, chapter books, middle-grade fiction, young adult novels, and more.
• Cultural Shaping Through Literature: The role of children's books in shaping values and traditions.
• Age-Appropriate Writing: Crafting content suitable for different age groups.
• Storytelling Techniques: Developing plot, characters, and themes for young audiences.
• Dialogue and Narrative: Writing engaging and relatable stories for children.
• Illustrations in Children's Books: Their importance and how to collaborate with illustrators.
• Addressing Sensitive Topics: Approaching issues like bullying, grief, and disability effectively.
• Incorporating Local Culture: Reflecting indigenous traditions and languages in stories.
• Publishing Options: Traditional vs. self-publishing, and tips for working with literary agents.
• Marketing Strategies: Promoting books via social media, school visits, and book fairs.
• Copyright Essentials: Protecting intellectual property in children's publishing.

BENEFIT:

• Certificate of Participation will be issued to all attendees.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and network with fellow writers passionate about children's literature.

For inquiries or registration, please contact [insert contact details].

We look forward to welcoming you to this enlightening workshop!

 

MEET OUR GUEST LECTURER/WRITER

 

Jide Ogunlana is a celebrated novelist, editor, playwright, and professional publisher whose literary contributions have earned him a place among Nigeria’s most accomplished writers. Two of his plays, Verbal Violence and Clash of the Gods, were successfully staged at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Theatre, University of Ibadan. His short story collection, From Marriage to Prison, is widely read at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and other higher institutions. Additionally, his short stories and excerpts have been featured in various editions of the ANA Review published by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

A multiple award-winning author, Ogunlana’s children’s storybook, Primrose and the Kidnappers, won the 2018 ANA Prize for Children’s Literature. In 2021, his storybook A Girl Called Corona Sofia garnered the same prestigious award, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding writer for young audiences. Many of Ogunlana’s books are also featured in the approved reading lists of Oyo and Osun States' Ministries of Education, attesting to their educational value and cultural significance.

Ogunlana’s publications reflect his versatility and creativity, spanning genres and languages. They include Esin Amope (in Yoruba), The Adventure of Three Wild Boys (published under the pseudonym Wale Adewale), The 3rd of March and Out of This World, and Awesu in a Strange House.

As an editor, Ogunlana’s career began with Evans Brothers (Nig. Publishers) Ltd, where he gained extensive experience as a Senior Editor, working with renowned local and international authors. He later founded his own publishing company, Lerato Book Publishers, where he continues to excel as a writer, editor, rewriter, and publisher. Ogunlana has also edited remarkable works by notable Nigerian authors, including the prose of Dr. Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) and former Member of the House of Representatives. His editing portfolio includes the biography of a former governor and the prose of Diipo Fagunwa, the only surviving child of the legendary D.O. Fagunwa.

Ogunlana has also distinguished himself as a biographer, authoring the autobiographies of notable figures such as High Chief Theophilus Olaleye Olutola, the Odofin of Ijebu-Jesa, and Prof. Samuel Olusegun Ayodele, a renowned professor of Language Education.

As an active member of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Ogunlana recently served as Chairman of the Electoral Committee for the 2024 elections of the Oyo State chapter of ANA. He is also a patron of the Ibadan Book Club, where his contributions to literary development are greatly appreciated.

With an impressive career spanning writing, publishing, and mentorship, Jide Ogunlana continues to inspire both readers and writers with his dedication to advancing literature and education.