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Writing Children's Picture Books

Julia Donaldson

Writing Children's Picture Books

Do you dream of writing children's picture books? Learn from the author of The Gruffalo, who's sold more than 100M books.

27 video lessons
Course notes
  • For new writers and professionals

  • Self-paced, no deadlines

  • Downloadable writing exercises

The Course

Julia's industry secrets and creative tips will guide you from initial idea to final manuscript and how to get your children's picture book published.

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What to expect writing a picture book with author, Julia Donaldson

Your Maestro

You couldn’t ask for a more qualified teacher. Julia’s books have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide, won too many awards to list and been adapted into eight award-winning animated films. And she’s a former Children’s Laureate to boot. So soak up the wisdom and insight from this formidable writer and her frequent collaborators – including her agent, her editor and The Gruffalo illustrator, Axel Scheffler.

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Course Notes

Course notes

97 pages

A downloadable PDF packed full of tricks, tips, and exercises to get you thinking and writing like Julia.

Course Notes

What people are saying

I felt so motivated taking this course. It covers everything from initial idea inspiration, story development, language patterns and then finally on to the publishing processes.

- Kara Bee

I loved Julia’s presentation of the course. It was full of tips and ideas and gave a real insight into what it takes to be a successful writer of children’s picture books.

- Gabrielle Mccallion

Julia offers so many fascinating insights into her writing process. I could listen to her forever!

- Joanna

I absolutely love it! Thanks @bbcmaestro. Julia is super inspiring. The course is very clear and informative. I'm loving learning all about picture books from the Queen of rhythm and rhyme! Julia's books are firm favourites in our house and it's an honour to be her student.

- Sidra Ansari

Thinking of writing a children's picture book? Honestly, I can't praise this @bbcmaestro course highly enough. 25 modules, 6+ hours of learning from the very best in the business. I've learnt so much and come away with 3 exciting book ideas. Highly recommended.

- Tony Walsh

I'm enjoying the course. Lots of practical information with worksheets to print out to help with story-telling and characterisation and much more.

- Carol

I have almost finished the course would definitely recommend to anyone who is becoming a future illustrator or a children's book writer. Julia is such an inspiring coach and her voice is just music to my ears.

- Monika Kelly

Absolutely loved the videos. Easy to listen to, she is the perfect person to host this kind of presentation. Very informative and natural. Worth every penny.

- Keva Connolly

Julia is a wonderful instructor, the course is informative and challenges me to think in different ways that I had never considered. I just wish I had more free time to focus on it!

- Homera Khan

I really enjoyed this course and I was pleasantly surprised about the depth and usefulness of the content. Julia is a very engaging speaker and her experience and tips helped to round out a very informative course.

- Trevor Boyle

Julia was so generous with her tips and suggestions. She was absolutely brilliant, a pleasure to listen to. She gave me so many useful ideas for writing.

- Frances Mackay

I feel like I’m opening a treat cupboard and indulging. Every day I look forward to stealing some time for another class and am finding Julia totally enchanting.

- Marisa Lassman

Start writing today

Find out how to write and publish a children’s picture book, with one of the most successful children’s authors of all time as your teacher. 

Learn what makes a picture book come alive in the minds of young readers, and find out the best ways to collaborate with an illustrator. 

Watch the course at your own pace, on any device, and rewatch as many times as you like.  

27 video lessons, 6.25 hrs
Course notes
Writing Children's Picture Books

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What to expect writing a picture book with author, Julia Donaldson