Jide Ogunlana To Headline Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop

 

JIDE OGUNLANA TO HEADLINE IBADAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE WORKSHOP

 

The Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop is set to host Mr. Jide Ogunlana, an award-winning children’s writer, novelist, editor, playwright, and professional publisher, as its keynote facilitator for this month’s edition. Known for his contributions to the growth of children’s literature in Nigeria, Ogunlana will bring his wealth of experience to guide participants on mastering the art of writing for young audiences.

This was revealed in a statement issued by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan on Saturday.

Scheduled for November 30, 2024, the workshop will take place at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Ibadan, starting at 12 PM. The event promises to be an enriching experience for aspiring and established writers seeking to deepen their craft and understanding of children’s literature.

The workshop will cover a wide range of essential topics. Participants will explore the different genres of children’s books, from picture books and chapter books to middle-grade fiction and young adult novels. They will also learn about crafting age-appropriate content, creating engaging plots, and developing memorable characters and themes tailored for young readers.

Ogunlana will delve into the art of writing engaging dialogue and narratives that captivate young audiences. Emphasis will also be placed on the role of illustrations in children’s books, highlighting techniques for creating visually appealing artwork and fostering effective collaboration between authors and illustrators.

A special segment will focus on addressing sensitive topics such as bullying, grief, and disability in a manner that is both age-appropriate and impactful. Additionally, Ogunlana will discuss ways to reflect local culture, history, and traditions in storytelling, as well as the importance of writing in indigenous languages and promoting bilingual books.

For aspiring authors navigating the publishing landscape, the workshop will offer insights into the pros and cons of traditional publishing versus self-publishing. Ogunlana will also share tips on finding and working with literary agents or publishers, ensuring participants leave equipped to take their work to the next level.

Marketing strategies will be a key highlight of the event, with discussions on leveraging social media, organizing school visits, and participating in book fairs to reach a broader audience. Writers will also receive valuable guidance on copyright and intellectual property considerations for children’s books.

Organizers of the Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop are excited to offer this opportunity to writers passionate about creating meaningful and engaging content for children. The event aligns with their mission to nurture and mentor the next generation of children’s literature creators.

Participation in the workshop is open to all, with prior registration required. Writers, educators, illustrators, and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to attend. For more information and registration details, contact the organizers at [Wole Adedoyin - 08072673852].

This workshop is more than an event—it’s a movement to shape the future of children’s literature in Nigeria. Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the most respected voices in the field.