Impressions of SCBWI

I just returned from the four day children's writer's conference in LA, held annually by SCBWI. My first time going, and worth it, I think. It's hard to quickly sum up four days, but here are my impressions:

A good way to hear what editors are looking for (and a great way to submit to closed markets, for those without an agent)

I picked up some very useful tips regarding school visits.

It was interesting to be on the published authors track and see that male authors for children (and male editors) are a great rarity. Also, I found it somehow encouraging that among published authors, I was always one of the youngest in the room.

Interesting to hear the various opinions about whether the picture book is dying, having a hard time, about to pick up again, or actually thriving.

Met a lot of nice people, mostly writers, mostly unpublished, but all nice.

Met Verla Kay. I mention that in particular because she has an amazing message board located at http://www.verlakay.com

Overall, worth the trip. And worth the money, I think