SCBWI-Michigan is one of over seventy active chapters of The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. We provide services, education and support at the local level to area members, as well as offer information to anyone with an interest in children's literature by way of our website, events, and newsletter. Our aim is to bring the best to children's literature by informing and encouraging its writers and illustrators.

Our Chapter Volunteers plan and produce a wide variety of regional events which provide opportunities to hear and meet well-known authors, illustrators, art directors and editors of children's literature, and to make friendships and share experiences with peers. The majority of events are open to all and helpful to anyone interested in writing and illustrating for children.

We offer a speakers list as a resource for schools, libraries and other institutions wishing to connect with Michigan children's authors and illustrators, and have displayed members' books and work at the Michigan Reading Association conference and at the award-winning Rochester Hills Public Library. To encourage Michigan libraries and bookstores to create displays of their own, we offer a list of Michigan Children's Book Authors and Illustrators.

As proponents of quality and diversity in children's literature, we encourage professional members to voice concerns about industry policies and issues that affect them, either by direct correspondence with SCBWI president, Mr. Steven Mooser at the main office in California, or through their area's Regional Advisor. SCBWI can be a powerful voice and has successfully lobbied for such issues as new copyright legislation, equitable treatment of authors and artists, and fair contract terms.

We urge eligible members to vote in SCBWI elections, supporting candidates who share their concerns.

The strength of SCBWI lies in its individual members. Whether you are a creator, publisher, reviewer, librarian, bookseller, educator, or simply someone with a love a literature and a desire to see the best in the hands of children, we invite you to get to know us better. Attend our events and subscribe to our newsletter. I think you'll like what we offer.

Our SCBWI chapter is led by Michigan Regional Advisors, Leslie Helakoski and Carrie Pearson. We very much appreciate their service.

This article was written by Lindy Rymill, who served as the SCBWI-Michigan Regional Advisor from 1997-1999, and on the SCBWI-MI Advisory Committee from 1996-2000. Lindy is author of GOOD KNIGHT, a picture book illustrated by G. Brian Karas.

page last updated: 12 June 2013