Explore creativity and take your children’s book idea to the next level

Budding children’s writers are invited to develop their craft as an author or illustrator.

The Writing Children’s Literature Day event has been organised by the University of Suffolk’s English team in partnership with The Hold in Ipswich, home of Suffolk Archives, a Suffolk County Council service.

Specialist workshops, talks and Q&As with authors, illustrators and literary agents from Darley Anderson Children’s Book Agency, the largest specialist agency for children’s books in the UK, will help those attending hone skills, gain insider tips and learn more about the children’s book industry.

Lindsey Scott, Course Leader for MA Creative and Critical Writing at the University of Suffolk, said: “Children’s literature has a unique power; the right book at the right moment can ignite a curiosity in a young reader that can help shape who they become. That’s what makes writing for children so important, and so thrilling.

“Many talented writers have a story inside them but don’t know how to take it to the next level. Having the guidance of an experienced literary agent can be transformative; helping them refine their pitch, find their audience and turn that idea into a published book.

“I’ve seen so many students build their confidence and go on to achieve their creative goals. Events like this – where you can learn from published authors, illustrators and leading agents all in one day – can be the moment that everything falls into place.”

The event includes workshops on writing and illustrating picture books with New York Times best-selling children’s illustrator and author Claire Powell, and writing young adult fiction with J.P. Rose, a prize-winning and best-selling author of crime novels for adults. The final session will focus on how to find a literary agent with Clare Wallace, Managing Director at Darley Anderson Children’s Books.

It also ties in with the UK-wide campaign, the National Year of Reading 2026, aimed at helping people rediscover the joy of reading.

Emily Shepperson, Exhibition and Interpretation Officer at Suffolk Archives, said: “Suffolk Archives is delighted to be hosting the Writing Children’s Literature Day at The Hold in Ipswich.

“Archives hold a wealth of sources of inspiration for creative writing for all ages, from stories of local myths and legends to beautifully illustrated manuscripts and maps.

“We are pleased to be continuing our ongoing partnership with the English team at the University of Suffolk, supporting students, staff, and the local community to develop skills and explore the potential within Suffolk Archives' wonderful collections.”

Writing Children’s Literature Day will be held at The Hold on Saturday 2 May from 10.30am–3.30pm. Tickets cost from £18 for students.

To book tickets, visit the Suffolk Archives website here.