Youth Writers and Illustrators Group For Local Authors

Whitsunday children’s authors and illustrators are uniting, with the creation of the Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group.

Led by local author and illustrator Sofia Fortunato, the group hopes to reinvigorate children’s reading, foster a supportive community, and run skill development for local authors and aspiring authors.

“My goal is to create a vibrant and collective community of children’s book creators right here in the Whitsundays,” said Sofia.

“We will start our first meeting at the library, and when I proposed the idea to Robyn, the libraries team leader, she was so supportive.

“I want to not only gather the ones who are already authors and illustrators, but also the ones who always dream about being one.”

The group will undertake regular workshops, peer critiquing, and skills building sessions with industry professionals.

“Because we live in regional Queensland it is difficult to access the mainstream publishing houses, as well as professional development,” said Sofia.

“So I hope that a group as such will help others to build their path as professional writers and illustrators.”

Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group will collaborate with the community and deliver outreach programs to encourage youth reading and literature, including book readings, workshops, and literacy events for children.

“I believe in the power of books to shape young minds, promote empathy and foster a lifelong love of reading,” Sofia said.

WHAT: Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group

WHERE: Cannonvale Library

WHEN: Saturday, July 29, 9.30am to 10.30am

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Local children’s author, Sofia Fortunato is starting The Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group to support local authors and illustrators and encourage youth reading. Photo supplied