Ahead of her two courses at the centre, we spoke to Aleesah Darlison about writing children’s books and promoting your work as an author.

1) The writing scene can be a little intimidating from the outside — what’s the children’s writing community like? 

Any scene or group can seem intimidating at first, but really, the children’s writing community is very welcoming, warm and friendly. Everyone shares their knowledge and skills with others. That’s how we learn from each other, because there are many things about being an author that aren’t taught at schools or universities. We learn on the job. If you’re an aspiring or emerging writer and feel intimidated, the best thing to do is attend a workshop or networking event and get to know others who are at a similar stage in their journey to you. That way, you can be confident together and share the special journey that you’re beginning. It’s always nice to have a friend to share these things with.

2) What advice would you give to someone who’s just started writing for children? 

Attend as many workshops and courses as you can. Immerse yourself in the industry. Write every day and, when you’re ready… take the plunge and start submitting your manuscripts. You’ll never know until you try!

3) What are a couple of key tips for successful book promotion? 

Promote your book before it comes out. Don’t wait until actual release date. You can use social media very effectively to ‘warm up’ the market about your impending release. Be really aware of themes, issues or events that you can tie a launch into. Attend loads of launches and events to support other authors (who will in turn support you) and to see how to conduct these kind of events.

Aleesah’s Book Promotion Essentials seminar will take place on Thursday 8 March from 6:30-9:30pm. Her one-day workshop, The Inside Scoop: Writing for Children, will take place on Saturday 10 March from 9:30am-3:30pm.