Workshop: Writing Novels for Children and Young Adults with Shirley-Anne McMillan

“You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if the book will be too difficult for grown-ups, then you write it for children.” Madeleine L'Engle

In this relaxed writing workshop you will explore various aspects of writing for children age 9 -18+. Learn about voice and characterisation in modern children’s literature, tips for keeping your young reader interested, and how to get involved in the local children’s writing community in Northern Ireland.

This workshop is suitable for beginners and those who have been writing for some time. Bring a notebook, pen/pencil and your questions. Inspiration provided!

Shirley-Anne McMillan is the author of four contemporary YA novels, including Grapefruit Moon, published by Little Island in 2023. She is the current Children’s Writing Fellow based at the Seamus Heaney Centre at Queen’s University. Shirley-Anne lives in South Down and teaches writing at the Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast.