On October 4th, 2026, we are pleased to present writing & illustrating picture books with Emma FitzGerald, author and illustrator (“Hand Drawn Halifax,” “EveryBody’s Different on EveryBody Street”), for a hands-on exploration of what makes a great picture book!

Whether you are a published author, illustrator or aspiring to be one, you will have the opportunity to connect with fellow creatives and gain valuable insights into both the creative process and the business aspects of picture book making.

Your time with Emma will include:

1. Structured exercises

Through a "reverse storyboard" activity, participants bring a favourite picture book and create thumbnail drawings of the overall page layouts, all on one big piece of newsprint. This exercise is designed for all levels, even those who may not feel comfortable with drawing. Emma will guide participants through the activity, focusing on how the overall patterns, text and image relate to each other, and ways that reptition/patterns might be used throughout the book.

2. Q&A sessions

Emma will give a presentation to share wisdom and knowledge gained from working with 6 different publishers across Canada, and how she makes her career work from a business point of view.

3. Discussion and feedback

Opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance!

Emma FitzGerald brings 10 years of experience in writing and illustrating books, having collaborated with many esteemed Canadian publishers, including Nimbus Publishing, Formac Publishing, Owlkids Books, Groundwood, Penguin Random House Canada, Gaspereau Press, and Conundrum Press. We are so pleased to bring this workshop to Wonder’neath!

📍 2482 Maynard St

⏰ October 4, 2026, 10- 4 pm

🎟 $145, ticket link in bio

👥 min. 7 and max. 12 participants

Image credit: Emma FitzGerald