 Oregon Coast at Dusk |
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Oregon Coast Children's
Book Writers Workshop
EVALUATIONS FROM JULY 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 OREGON COAST CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS WORKSHOP: (The people below have given consent for you to contact them if you seek more information or feedback about the course.)
SUMMER 2008
"This is the best workshop I have ever been to and as an elementary teacher I have been to lots. I learned so much and grew in so many areas in just a week. I am so jazzed to get to work on projects born out of ideas developed this week during the workshop… It exceeded my expectations. I learned there is so much to learn besides write, write, write. Inspires me to go on.”
Pam Pirtle
“I am wildly enthusiastic – torn between singing praises to my colleagues and keeping the whole wonderful secret to myself… I especially loved the consultations. That was the main reason I came and it is something truly unprecedented in my conference experience. I met with David Greenberg, Harold, Mel & Esther, and the wealth of what I got from all four was wonderful. A nice balance between encouragement and pushing me toward a more ambitious pursuit of excellence…. The greatest compliment I can give is this: the work ethic of the faculty was amazing – that truly exceeded my expectations. Everyone was accessible, patient, and clearly dedicated to helping us produce our best work.”
Lisa Bierman
“The course exceeded my expectations, both in the quality of the experts and in the vast amount of useful information... Since my first visit at the first workshop, it has improved a lot! More instructors! More one-on-one consults! The quality of students has also improved. Many serious, dedicated, excellent writers who both inspired and somewhat intimidated! Great!”
Barbara Bumgardner
“This was the highest quality of workshop that I’ve experienced in the nine years I’ve been writing and attending workshops/conferences.”
Patty Lausche
“This course rocks! All expectations were met and exceeded! The instructors were all extremely knowledgeable and available.”
Jenny Murray
“A++. This was the best writing workshop that I have ever attended… Way more worthwhile than any SCBWI event. The opportunity to discuss my evolving manuscripts with eight different professionals over five days was a unique opportunity…. All instructors were superb, presentations, personal critiques – right on.”
Valerie Stauffer
“Excellent. The Best in the West! This is my third year attending and I want to come again. It is difficult to have your writing sometimes torn apart. But it is done in a constructive way. It is a wonderful course that makes you think and grow as a writer… The instructors were top notch. They always are the most educational entertaining instructors.”
Ginger Curtis
“I have attended other conferences including the Children’s Writers Conference in Provo, Utah. This one is far better. I met one-on-one with almost all of the instructors. I really appreciated all of their input… I've been bragging about your conference. Two friends will join me next year. I have already reserved a room!”
Rita Christensen
“This is the first writer’s function I’ve attended, and I’m afraid you’ve ruined it for any others I might attend. How could they possibly be any better?!”
Jean Bartlin
“A+. A very heartfelt “thank you” to you all. I love this workshop. Everything from the practical feedback to inspiration lectures to meeting great people to the fantastic party and food, make this week a gift that feeds my writer’s soul. I appreciate your hard work and kind friendship. See you next year!”
Ann McCallum
mccallumah12@yahoo.com, Ann_H_McCallum@mcpsmd.org
“A+++. Really high standards in every sense… This has been a fun, funny, engaging, instructive, inspirational, thought provoking, educational, moving week – high quality throughout, totally engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable!!!!!!!!!”
Tone Fokstuen
“Wonderful setting. Mostly terrific instructors. Loved David’s energy and enthusiasm and readings. Tom was excellent was excellent help with structure – the big picture, Harold with structure that wasn’t working, Stacy with how to bring my protagonist’s voice out more clearly, and David with words that could be improved. “Make it better,” David said. I’m inspired to do just that.”
“Outstanding! I’ve been to many (25 – 35) conferences and this is one of the best.”
Grant Farley
“… i love, love, loved last week! i've been writing like a mad-woman (no surprise there!) since! i had sooo much fun at your home too. thank you so much for organizing, presenting, mentoring, cooking, and laughing with me last week… Not only have I learned how to organize and tighten up a story, I discovered I was capable of taking a good idea and through collaboration, criticism, creation, and motivation, turning it into a 1st novel… Most lectures were extremely helpful, and I was able to discover specific keys to assist in my writing process. The consultations were personal, helpful, and highly supportive of my early stages of publishing/writing.”
Erin Warbington
WarbingtonE@tillamook.k12.or.us
“This was my third time at OCCBWW and each time I’ve learned something new from both the instructors and my fellow students. Best, I always leave energized, ready to submit, patch up bullet-riddled manuscripts, and tackle the publishing world!”
Mary Boone
“A great opportunity to learn more about the craft of writing and especially wonderful to attend a workshop totally focused on children’s lit. A nice balance of instruction, work time, and consultation…. I signed up because of the promise of 1:1 work with instructors. My expectations were well met in this area… The instructors were all so generous and helpful. I received a wide range of feedback – all of it insightful and precise. They each seemed to care deeply about the success of all of us. I’m looking forward to processing all this input as part of my revision work.”
Helena Fagan
“Wonderful, talented and insightful instructors. Friendly atmosphere, inspiring atmosphere. A chance to make lasting friendships.”
Claire Berkeley
“At the beginning of the course, I would characterize myself as a good, but discouraged writer. My week at OCCBWW was just the right mix of inspiration and concrete help to take my writing to a higher level. It surpassed my expectations.”
Karen Neufeld
“Strikes the right balance between lecture and information, and honing of craft. This is one of the most well thought out, well organized, and well-run workshops I have ever attended. I got specific, practical input on my ms and expect it to be published…100% input from faculty on my specific ms was invaluable.”
George Self
“I think the course exceeded my expectations because I not only was able to get feedback on my writing, but also on my ideas for current and future projects… Overall this was a wonderful and very productive experience.”
Julie Angeli
“As authors, editors and agents, I’m sure it must have been difficult to be deluged with so man “aspiring” writers… I very much appreciated all of your comments, suggestions, patience, and availability. You were all very gentle with our fragile egos. Thanks for that!”
Jeanne Bayer
“I am leaving with all my expectations met – with a little more.”
David Peabody
“Very interesting, useful, practical. I thought it was great… Impressed by the quality of instructors and the strength of their advice, suggestions.”
Nora Hazi
“It was great. Good diversity in instructors. Good breakup of time between lectures, 1st drafts, etc… The instructors were so good!”
Elene Chamberlain
“This was an incredibly enriching week for me as a writer and a person. I received so much valuable individual feedback on my writing, but I also was caught up in the warm glow of kindredship of writers. The instructors were so generous with their time and expertise. The strength of this course was in the instructors themselves. The staff was an incredible team of caring, knowledgeable, and dedicated writers. Topics were also relevant, practical, and engaging.”
Angie Greenwood
“Very good. Very informative. Fun! Good to meet other author hopefuls and make new friends… More then met my expectations; I learned a lot of important things that will help me with my writing.”
Judith Nelson-Curtis
“Excellent as always… Very strong instructors – all were wonderful!”
Janice Yuwiler
“Inspiring, delightful, and insightful! I had extremely high expectations and the course surpassed them…. I felt it was a big splurge, but after the experience feel it was well worth it.
Liz Brigman
“This was the best one yet. This is my third year and… these were the most helpful speakers yet! I learned a lot.
Bonnie DeYoung
“Excellent. The setting is perfect. The presenters are knowledgeable and helpful. David is outrageously wonderful – It’s worth every dime. I just keep coming back. It’s fun to hear from attendees that they’re being published!”
Jane Sandquist
“I found this an engaging, productive and provocative course. It covered every aspect of writing and marketing children’s books I could wish for… I found the instructors involved, attentive, and incredibly generous with their time and expertise. I’m amazed that they are still standing after 5 days of giving us their total attention. Each person I spoke to was able to focus on my work and my needs with energy and interest…. I came to the course not knowing how to approach the business of writing for children. In the past week I’ve been given options, information, instructions, guidance and, most important, support. I have a much clearer view of how to proceed with my work. Furthermore, I now have resources to draw on. I know where to find the information I need, and how to approach ideas I want to develop. Like all good learning experiences, the course mixes real, solid information with lots of fun.”
Nancy Sans
“A+ Excellent. You run a brilliant, dynamic, meaningful, life-changing workshop. And though books must not be message driven, your workshop is. And the message is this: You will not be the same after experiencing OCCBWW. The OCCBWW virus is contagious and long lasting. If you do not wish to be exposed, stay far far away from Oceanside each July.”
Susan Andrew
“I got exactly what I needed from my week in Oceanside: the enthusiastic feedback of the instructors gave me validation that I am on the right track with my work. The remote location provided a relaxing environment free of city distractions that helped me focus on my writing. The lectures, group sharing of 1st pages, and general tone of support and encouragement allowed inspiration to blossom. The instructors, through both one-on-one sessions and lectures, were creative in presenting ideas that broadened my concept of writing. Because all of this served to open my thought to new possibilities, the problems and blocks in my work seemed to magically solve themselves as the week progressed… It was like alchemy: taking raw lumps of ideas and dreams and turning them into rich, deep work…. So many things to comment on….
I felt that the group of instructors as a whole was very strong. There was someone who could instruct in every major area of children's book writing. Each instructor brought a different style of teaching and support. I think it was really a complete experience for the attendees (or at least for me) because of this great blend of people.
My favorite thing about the whole course was my work with David Gifaldi. Right off the bat, he had specific and thoughtful criticism about my chapter book. He encouraged me to explore more deeply into my character and her world. I scheduled another session and began to research and write with that deadline in mind, which forced me to focus and "go for it" in a short period of time. Then, different lectures and conversations sparked solutions and more questions, and David continued the dialogue in random moments as we had time. I felt like I came so far with my book just on these few interactions. Then his lecture (which was wonderful!) spoke directly to the things we were working on. I would love to get a copy of the lecture. Because he was reading from a text, it was a bit faster than I could write and it would have been great to have either the lecture, or an outline as a supplement.
I found Harold kind of scary in his blunt critiques of the 1st pages. But I think he was sincere and committed, and it's good to have people who provide both soft and hard critiques. If the instructors are too careful, you might not get the hard truths you need to push your work to the next level. And his lecture was amazing – he pushed us to enter a new paradigm in thinking about and responding to reading & writing. His lecture was the catalyst for a big breakthrough in my writing, simply because it made me think in a different way, and opened my thought to new ideas.
Susan and Stacy were very generous with their information and time. After our private sessions, they both offered to meet with me in the morning before class, as we had run out of time and I still had questions. They answered every question I had (and believe me, I came with lists!) about submissions with specific information, and gave encouraging feedback about my work.
I'd be happy to recommend the course to anyone. I'm so thrilled about my experience and the deep, focused work that is coming out of it.”
Amy Rubinate
“I loved the workshop, it was brilliant. I haven't ever been surrounded by so many writers, so many people who are willing to talk and share, the camaraderie was amazing.”
Lois Strell
SUMMER 2007
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"The course was phenomenal! It was so helpful to have such great, regular access to the instructors who were top notch. The course far exceeded my expectations."
Eve Orio
eve@goldensummit.com
"This is the best course I've ever taken. I had high hopes and the course exceeded them. It's incredible to have so many experts at our fingertips, all of whom are approachable and friendly. I've attended many conferences, but I find the opportunities for feedback here to be priceless. It's so nice that all the instructors read our work before we arrived and are ready to jump in and help during consultations."
Dawn VanderMeer
"Overall I thought the course was 'beyond excellence.' I feel like I have personally made a huge leap as a writer, and, more important, I am completely inspired to write, write, write.!"
Ann McCallum
mccallumah12@yahoo.com
"It was amazing. I left feeling so much more confident about my writing and the direction in which it was going. I left feeling much more in control of my own writing process, and the conference offers a wonderful networking opportunity with not just the instructors but with all the other students who are struggling with the same creative issues as me and who hold the same hopes for their writing as me."
Heather Meloche
wordspring@wideopenwest.com
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"Excellent. Particularly valuable for both "virgins" and seasoned book writers. I felt it was strong across the board. Particularly strong was the warmth, the humor, and the emphasis on voice and heart and patience."
Teresa Gillroy
gillroy@bellsouth.net
"I thought it was a wonderful course. It was very informative, it was active - I felt it was something I participated in - not just lectured to. It was realistic and yet still empowering and inspiring. It exceeded my expectations."
Saskia VanVactor
saskiarivera@yahoo.com
"Excellent. It helped me to identify definite shortcomings in my writing and offered specific suggestions for improvement. I came with little idea of what to expect, but was delighted with what I found."
Ann McBroom
mcbroom@shentel.net
"Outstanding. This is the first time in my (long) working life that I've been to a conference where every single presenter was educational and forthright. I am an experienced writer, but new to the world of writing for children's literature publication. This program was rich with information about the craft and business of writing for children. The room was filled with serious writers, published and unpublished. There was a wonderful combination of presentations, anonymous critiques, individual consultations, and meeting with fellow writers. Every minute of this week was worth it."
Anne Carelli
anneobriencarelli@yahoo.com
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"Totally awesome! Loved the camaraderie and the wide representation of writing and people from the states. The course was above and beyond my expectations. The instructors were incredibly tireless. All were kind and made time for everyone. I liked the idea of sending in a 1st page and the reading of these. Comments from instructors about these were extremely helpful."
Glynda Shoff
gshoff@usd264.org
"I loved the accessibility of staff. Loved the 9-12, 1:15-4:15 schedule as well as the optional 8-9 segment."
Maggie Davis
maggie@downeast.net
"My goal was to have my work read by the instructors, to get feedback, and to learn from instructors and others. The course met these expectations. Great talks. Great feedback. 1st page critiques quite helpful. I liked the optional 8 AM-9 AM time with instructors. I got to see almost everyone."
Mary Dolan
dolanmary@sbcglobal.net
"The course exceeded my every expectation! The instructors were helpful, approachable, and very knowledgeable. I cannot think of anything to improve. It was wonderful."
Jenny Murray
jenny.murray@dukeschool.org
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"The course was extremely helpful. A positive experience, largely due to the generosity of the instructors. I have no suggestions. I felt that the organization hit all needs. Most beneficial were the individual consults, the 1st page reviews, and the time to work with others. I felt that all instructors were gracious and generous. Their critiques were constructive, mixing strength and weaknesses with suggestions. I never heard a single person's work ridiculed or put down in any way. It felt like a 'safe' venue to share my work. I can't say enough about the instructors! And the party was awesome! Thanks."
Mardy Cowan
mcowan@comcast.net
"This was an excellent course. A wonderful week of enlightenment, encouragement, and instruction in a beautiful setting. This course went beyond my expectations. I had no idea I would develop lovely friendships, gain such valued perspective/insight, and be so inspired in my writing. The instructors were excellent. Each brought to the table something a little different to learn/ponder. Not one of them 'dialed it in.' They were approachable and insightful."
Marty Murphy
fourmurfs@cox.net
"Really helpful & constructive. I found this a really stimulating week. All the instructors made helpful suggestions, gave good advice. Seeing/hearing other writers a plus. The added bonus: am now inspired to look into possibilities of a totally new project, in nonfiction."
Maggie B
maggieb@nyc.rr.com
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"It has been wonderful in so many ways. The structure of the workshop has allowed for lecture, first page critiques, workshopping with peers, and professional consults. The opportunities for growing our writing have been ample. The course exceeded my expectations. The instructors have been so magnificent. And their feedback has taught me to see my writing with new awareness. It has been wonderful to be listened to with such respect and careful attention to my work."
Fran Jenner
franjenner@yahoo.com
"Being an educator and having gone to many conferences, this is tops in my book. I was here last year and it was tops then, but you have topped 'tops' - No question, it surpassed my expectations. Having top instructors is one strength. Having top guest lecturers is another strength."
Louise Givens
lbgivens@ix.netcom.com
"Very informative. Great instructors. Well-structured. Gorgeous setting. It met my expectations and was, in fact, superior to a different conference I attended last year in Portland."
Mark Roughsedge
mroughsedge@wildmail.com
"Super! You changed my world. I have another path to travel, it's even better. Thanks to you!"
Jeff Mason
humole@harborside.com
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"Excellent! One of the best conferences I have attended."
Carol Murray
camurray@ourtownusa.net
"This is my second time attending the course and I intend to come again. The instructors are great. David Greenberg is marvelous. he is so inspiring and such a great teacher. At this workshop you are encouraged to keep writing. You also find out your mistakes so you can get busy correcting them."
"I learned more in this one-week workshop than from all of the writers' journals and how-to-write and how-to-market books I've read in the past year. David, inviting us into your home was the most gracious and the most heartfelt ingredient of this whole feast. Thank you and thank you."
Robert Rose
"The course exceeded my high expectations. This was really a wonderful experience. I got a lot of ideas and enjoyed all of the speakers. The one-on-one sessions with published authors and real agents were invaluable. I would definitely love to come back and would encourage all aspiring authors to attend. It's a great learning experience and an excellent chance to get to know the field of children's book writing from experts."
Randi Dalton
webdaltons@hotmail.com
"I am new to children's writing and after this week I feel as though I can move forward with my writing. I now know what I'm doing. I have never felt so encouraged as a writer."
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"Fabulous!! I've loved the 'one-on-one' time w/all the instructors. The course exceeded my expectations. It's the 1st workshop I've attended where I truly had the opportunity to comfortably address authors and editors/agents which has positively influenced my writing. The 1st page critiques have proved to be very helpful. The individual consults were extremely helpful & I love that every instructor had read everyone's work ahead of time so that they were familiar with it when you spoke to them."
Machille Legoullon
writerinside@comcast.net
"It was great! I will recommend it to everyone in my critique group. I've appreciated having feedback on my writing so I can improve it."
Lu Ross
lar1800@sbcglobal.net
"This is my first venture into this kind of workshop. So I did not have specific expectations. I decided after studying the website it would be valuable to me. I was not disappointed."
Beverly Willis
BeverlyWillis@gmail.com
"It's a beautiful setting and a very supportive group. Instructors were most generous with their time and energy. Thanks to all!"
Donna Schneider
donnajs@mac.com
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"It was just the shot in the arm I needed to get writing again! The course exceeded my expectations."
Gretchen de Castellane
"Top notch! Overall best workshop I've experienced for working on a well advanced mss with problems - that's why I'm here for the second time."
Abe Bernstein
abebern@yahoo.com
"I loved it! The combination of instruction, evaluation & writing time was perfectly spaced. The presenters were informative & interesting. They freely offered their time and expertise."
Megan Bilder
bildm@hotmail.com
"Amazing, wonderful, excellent! At every turn, I was surprised by what we did. I LOVED 1st Page critiques! Every genre, every author, the artists, the business-folk (agents, editors, publishers)... were all GREAT!"
Amy Jayne Johnson
JayneAmy@aol.com
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"Overall, it was the best conference/retreat I've attended, and I'm not just sucking up. The presenters were solid and personable, which doesn't often happen. They knew their craft and were able to be "real" people, too - a rare combination. The strength was in the personal attention given to us from the professionals. The one-on-one consults gave me so much feedback and a great deal of validation."
Linda Boyden
lboyden@charter.net
"A+, 10, Yowza!, Wowie Zowie! (there is no higher praise than Wowie Zowie.) You covered all the bases. Craft, imagination, write & write & write, tell your story, editor's job, agent's role, and lots of support & feedback. Met my expectations and beyond. Thank you for a wonderful experience."
Bob Griffith
bgriffith@kalama.com
"Great experience. Instructors were energetic, informative, and exceptionally accessible. I liked the tempo of the course, alternating lessons w/writing time. Instructors were amazing. The balance of writers, agents, editors was perfect - we were able to hear all perspectives."
Maggie Desruisseaux
maggie.dee@cox.net
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"A really great workshop!!! Once again I'll go home full of enthusiasm with my head stuffed full of useful information. I plan to attend again next summer. The course rates 10 on a scale of 1-10. I found the sharp-eyed editing invaluable in tightening up the writing. I liked the first page critiques."
Linda Martin
linmart@willapabay.org
"Love it. This was my second time at OCCBWW and it did just what I needed it to do: it inspired me, encourage me, lit a fire under me, and connected me to a terrific community of writers, editors and agents. I worried if this course would be as beneficial the second time around - it was. In fact, I think I learned more - came away with more - this time around."
Mary Boone
mary@boonewrites.com
SUMMER 2006
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"Exceptional! The course far exceeded even my wildest (highest) expecations. The energy was phenomenal throughout the entire week. The camraderie that developed among the participants was also wonderful... I loved the individual perspectives of each instructor. They were all incredible!!... I have learned more this week than I ever dreamed possible."
Norma Liburd
sarasotagirl@comcast.net
"The course was extremely helpful. I have been to the New York City and Los Angeles conferences and local chapters where they have a one day conference and this course has been the most helpful place for me. Two thumbs up!"
Stefanie Lyons
sllplatform@hotmail.com
"I loved the flow of the class I also loved the variety of styles, speakers, and activities. The class was awesome in every respect! It met and exceeded my expectations... I got so much out of this course. It is actually hard to put in words how much I appreciated all of the instructors' unique styles, gifts, and vivaciousness. Their passion shines through."
Marilyn Aron
marilynaron@hotmail.com
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"Wonderful! A week I will not forget. More than I expected!! I found such hands-on information that I can put towards crafting - it wasn't all just philosophy. The one-to-one feedback is awesome and way beyond what I thought we'd get."
Phyllis Pokela
mppokela@tds.net
"Excellent! Extremely beneficial. The course exceeded my expectations."
Laurie Bailey
Little_House@comcast.net
"For me, it was wonderful... My expectations were surpassed... The success of the program is because of dedication, devotion, and passion of the instructors. I appreciate this and thank you all very much."
Bridget Schwafel
akschwafel@hotmail.com
"This was my first children's book writing workshop. My expectation was that I would learn something. By Friday I could not process any more information. I'm stuffed and it feels great!"
Mary Miller
marmmil@cox.net
"The one-on-one evaluations and speaking to the agent and editor were very helpful. The course highly met all my expectations."
Julie Rodriguez
jagr000@aol.com
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"Excellent. Money and time well spent."
Janet Sue Rhodes
janetsue_rhodes@aol.com
"Fantastic!!! It surpassed my expectations and my expectations were high from having attended last year! I loved the enthusiasm, the professionalism, and the well rounded body of instructors who have the right knowledge and experience in their fields."
Tone Fokstuen
tfokstuen@hotmail.com
"I learned so much from the workshop. My stories aren't ready, but now I know how to fix them. The personal attention and suggestions were incredibly appreciated. The instructors worked so hard for us. Carmen really went through my manuscript thoroughly!"
Barbara Pennell
funnelli@comcast.net
"Very informative, interesting, and engaging. Particularly useful for me as a "new" writer and someone that is not familiar with the intricacies of the field. The course exceeded my expectations in every way. I really learned so much and am highly motivated to continue writing!"
No name on Evaluation Form
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"It's a dream come true! I have learned so much being among a group of people who are so enthusiastic about writing. The instructors were wonderful."
Heather Kingham
heatherk@rism.ac.th
"The course was stimulating, interesting, and creative. The interactions between all instructors and participants gave a feel of a week-long family. All instructors spoke well to many different subjects. The personal consultations were illuminating. I was thankful that there were authors for non-fiction as well as fiction and poetry."
Irene Phaksuwan
ireneph@yahoo.com
"Phenomenal. Actually exceeded my expectations."
Susan Brown
Ralphsplace@comcast.net
"Wonderful! I loved all the one-on-one between professionals and students and students and students. A warm learning environment. Met my expectations plus some. It was great."
Michelle Robbins
saundersfive@yahoo.com
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"An improvement even on last year. Superb."
Jan Norton
tchnlrn@surfbest.net
"The course was like constructing a book, exciting, scary, beginning, a roller-coaster ride with my consultations, and then a satisfying, hopeful conclusion. What a ride!"
Bonnie DeYoung
twodeys@caribsurf.com
"My first time at this workshop, but hopefully not my last. Thoroughly enjoyable - structured, but relaxed - seriously, professionally presented with humor and with consideration for personal feelings. A ++."
Karen Treharne
treharnek@yahoo.com
"I think the class was of a very high quality - the lectures were substantive, thoughtful, and a lot of fun. They covered a good range of topics and complemented each other very well."
Vanessa Miller
vanessa.lm@comcast.net
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"I had a great time. I'm leaving as a better, more confident writer than I was when I arrived. The course met my expectations 100%. Marsha and Carmen and Peter gave excellent feedback. Carmen and David's lectures were fantastic. Meeting with Susan and Nancy was definitely an eye-opening experience. I really appreciate their advice."
Ed Kline
grumo@easystreet.com
"Excellent. Make that EXCELLENT! The course exceeded my expectations. I knew it would help me, but I hadn't realized how very much it would help me to see with new eyes and get a better direction on my work."
Angela Wrahtz
Angela.Wrahtz@comcast.net
"I absolutely loved this course. Halfway through the first session I felt the entire trip and cost were wothwhile. The individual consults were excellent as were the instructors "lectures." The groups, too, were great. I learned so much from the other students, but it was definitely David and the other instructors who "made" this course fabulous.... I have to admit I had low expectations. I'd never heard of the workshop, knew no one who'd been to it, and couldn't tell from the website whether this would be fabulous or a flop.
I kind of expected to leave midway. This class blew me away. It not only far exceeded my expectation, but also suprassed my standards which is kind of hard to do. I've been to a lot of conferences: this was clearly the best."
Kristen Bole
kabole@mindspring.com
"This year surpassed last year. I really valued the diversity of authors, editors, etc."
Chris LeGrand
clegrand@wi.rr.com
"This has to be the best thing that has happened to me in my quest to be published. Surpassed excellence."
Louise Givens
lbgivens@ix.netcom.com
"Life changing. You delivered even more than advertised or expected. Personable and highly professional - a great combo - thank you! Surpassed excellence. The instructors were knowledgable, joyjful, FUNNY, compassionate - the best."
Kerri Kor
korsch@sonic.net
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"My mind is still reeling. It won't stop. My family finds me in a daze since I came home. I can't stop thinking about the workshop. I feel like I've been to bootcamp where they break you down and put you back together again stronger. Please put me on the list NOW for next year."
Ginger Curtis
happyh@centurytel.net
"As a writer who has yet to identify a subgenre within the field of children's literature which appeals to me to the exclusion of all others, your conference offered a unique opportunity for outstanding feedback and support. In no other forum have I ever had the opportunity to obtain such outstanding critiques for my various manuscripts. The Roops critique of my non-fiction work, Nancy, Carmen, Marsha, Patricia, and Susan's comments and encouragement for my picture books and novels, and your critique of my rhyming texts were excellent. In addition, I appreciated the opportunity the workshop offered to meet and make friends with so many outstanding children's book writers. You [David] and Marsha were both fabulous informal critique group leaders. I'm only sorry I was not able to sit in on more of those informal sessions."
Claudia Pearson
pearsoncrz@earthlink.net
SUMMER 2005
"Excellent - couldn't be better! This course exceeded my expectations. Whether a writer is a beginner or ready to send a manuscript, this course will push the writer to a new level."
Susan Andrew
susanandray@adelphia.net
"Best I ever took including two Institute of Children's Literature courses."
Barb Oakes
gvrnesswriter@earthlink.net
"This has been a fantastic opportunity! I've appreciated hearing the variety of experiences shared - writer, editor, agent."
D'Etta Broam
mrsbroam@yahoo.com
dbroam@lexington1.net
"FANTASTIC! The feedback is honest and encouraging. The fact that the opinions differ from instructor to instructor only strengthens the class. The course met, then surpassed my expectations."
Karla Morton
karlakmorton@msn.com
"Beyond! I came in so green around the gills I didn't even know what I wanted to know. Day One I wondered why some of the writers would even consider coming back to the same workshop again. On Day Five I know."
Terry Lewis
tlewis@midrivers.com
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"A great dissemination of accomplished author's wisdom with seriousness and humor. The personal guidance of individual manuscripts was indispensable. The lessons were a good base to learn from. The course exceeded my expectations. The group dynamics, the author consultations, the lessons given and the friendly atmosphere wre quite a package. The host/author (David Greenberg) was a perfect leader!"
Marita Ulrich
mulrich@coretek.org
"Well worth it. I have been greatly challenged and greatly encouraged."
Wayne Floyd
wpfloyd@alaska.net
wfloyd@kpbsd.k12.ak.us
"The greatest strength was the individual critiques and the willingness of the instructors to follow-up after our revisions."
Laurie Wallmark
b@bluetreebooks.com
"Excellent. What a great week! Your enthusiasm is contagious. Your encouragement and affirming comments on my manuscript were so helpful. I left with both direction and excitement. I got what I needed."
Doraine Bennett
pdbennett@knology.net
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"I liked the varied background of the instructors. I especially enjoyed David's enthusiasm and his expertise with poetry. I liked that he kept the course on track as much as possible. I liked the one-on-one meetings. That exceeded my expectations."
Jolie Castelucci
jmayonaz@sbcglobal.net
"I needed a kick in the butt and this class provided it! I'm leaving with some solid direction. Thanks!"
Mary Boone
mary@boonewrites.com
"It was very inspiring."
Rebecca Isbell
Isbell@ETSU.edu
"Warm and nurturing, especially for emerging writers. I like the limited attendance creating the open atmosphere for socializing and new friendships."
Diana Greenwood
gwood@napanet.net
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"As a beginning writer this class inspired me. I received so many useful ideas from everyone. It was a wonderful way to get started. Everyone was very supportive and sensitive to my needs."
Chris Venemon
cvenemon@comcast.net
"This was my first workshop and I feel I have learned so much. The lecture and critiques were very helpful and the fellowship and kindness of both lecturers and members made this workshop memorable."
Linda Martin
linmart@willapabay.org
"I had high, unrealistic expectations. Still the course exceeded them. There was a good balance of practical nuts and bolts along with motivating feedback."
Richard Glaubman
jasmine@olypen.com
"I found it much more useful and personal than the large seminars."
Wanda Parker
Parkwanda@aol.com
"Excellent. I was looking for a workshop that would allow me not only to receive feedback, but have the time to revise and get feedback on the revisions so I could really PUSH my manuscripts. This course did all that and more!"
Janice Yuwiler
jyuwiler@san.rr.com
SUMMER 2004
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"Better than expectations. I didn't realize how many chances we would have to meet one-on- one and with all instructors."
Donna Schneider
donnajs@mac.com
"Excellent! The course went beyond my expectations. I appreciated the expertise and focus of each presenter. As a beginner I found no weaknesses. I particularly liked hearing conflicting opinions. This allowed me to think out of the box."
Barb Thornton
barbthor10@hotmail.com
"I thought it was top-notch from the location to the guest lecturers to the instructors' guidance. It surpassed my expectations in content, personal consultations, and the experience I've gained. I appreciated the diverse talents of each instructor. Even outside of genre, they are well informed about a tough business. Exceptional!"
Todd Hagness
thagness@yahoo.com
"I loved the class and cried all of the way from Oceanside to Tillamook! It was a life changing week! Thanks again for such a fun time. I learned a ton and it was magical."
Jennifer Harlan
mikeh@dunlaptowing.com
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Ron Lukesh
RtstRon@aol.com
"This course is beneficial to serious writers wanting to improve their craft & publish their work. David has an amazing ability to create a supportive writing community. You know, I didn't have a clear idea of what this would be like. I found the format to be very satisfying: workshop, writing time, group time, and time with instructors."
J. Piper Gallucci
jpgallucci@comcast.net
"Outstanding! It exceeded my expectations. I came to it focused on one category of children's writing and was exposed to other exciting categories that would not have occurred to me but for the course. The instructors were open, insightful, frank, encouraging, and excellent editors. Their "lectures" were excellent."
Gordy Greiner
kcgreiner@rockisland.net
"It was Beyond! It met my expectations and then some!"
Elizabeth Fletcher
elizff@att.net
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"A wonderful course in a wonderful setting. I am so glad I came. The course exceeded my expectations."
Susan Berger
sueberger3@aol.com
"I thought it was excellent. I wish it could have been 10 days. The one-on-one consultations were very helpful. I was given an incredible amount of information that will certainly influence the way I write in the future."
Mark Isaac
msisaac@challengeprinting.com
"I really enjoyed the conference and got a lot out of the writing time and feedback sessions. My story is in MUCH better shape and I walked away with a desire to keep on working, so this is a good thing! Also, you specifically inspired me to pick up some old pieces I had given up on. New ideas are brewing!"
Dusty Cavaliere
dusty@microsoft.com
"It has been WONDERFUL!!" I truly did not know what to expect. The course far exceeded my expectations."
Belinda Reagan
pdxreagans@comcast.net
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"The lowest standard was excellence - THANK GOD! The course more than met my expectations. I didn't really know what to expect, but whatever expectations I might have had were blown away with the actual experience of being here."
Shelley Souza
shelleysouza@earthlink.net
"Excellent. David's generosity of spirit gave a festive tone to what became a week of celebrating creativity and children's literature."
Hilary Anthony
hilant@rio.com
SUMMER 2003
"On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a 20... The description of the course was right on... personal attention was definitely there... Constructive feedback very valuable... Loved the facility and the schedule..."
Lynette Poss
lynettep@texas.net
"It was a wonderful, life changing experience. The knowledge I received was extremely helpful... 'Overmet' my expectations... the diversity was great.... I have enjoyed this week so much. The information I received was so helpful. I feel I have the foundation needed to move ahead on my own now. Thank you!"
Angela Koenig
Angel48nj@cs.com
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"The best workshop I've ever been to - stupendous scenery helped of course, but the authors and presentations were excellent.... The authors knew their stuff! The guests were excellent too. If you are interested in writing for children you won't find a better workshop!"
Barbara Bumgardner
amberhrt1@aol.com
"It was life changing for me because I have progressed through my own process of writing in one week. I am a better writer because of this class.... I thought the instructors were BRILLIANT! ... The personal consultations were the most helpful. A group of us would LOVE to come back and do this again..."
Becky Davis
becky_davis@interact.ccsd.net
"Overall, I thought it was wonderful. I was inspired by the information we received AND the setting. I loved the mix of all three instructors... I liked how all of you worked to create a community of writers. It was a nice touch to have a potluck that first evening so people could mingle informally. The gourmet dinner was a treat. Thank you!"
Bobbie Benson
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"Just like the ocean never ceases to talk, neither did the enthusiasm and inspiration for words at Oceanside."
Kathy Spryou
spyrouk@hotmail.com
"Intense and copacetic! This class has been more helpful than anything I've taken and has propelled me further on the path to publication than any."
"I found this course very valuable, inspiring, touching, thought-provoking and, best of all, it has been the kick-in-the-pants I need... I enjoyed the different viewpoints of the instructors... The guest speakers were VERY helpful. Their perspective added a different dimension."
Susan Rodriguez
lunaazul@attbi.com
"I loved the experience. I loved hearing the personal experiences of each of the authors. It was inspiring, enlightening, and humorous. I greatly appreciated the criticism and suggestions related to my writing. I was challenged by the assignments... This workshop helped me clarify inner questions about where I really was with my writing. I came to believe that I really was an author! Patty Skelly - AUTHOR!"
Patty Skelly
pmskelly@charter.net
"Super! We received lots of information on all different levels from starting out to what to look for in a contract. Location: PERFECTION! I think the creative atmosphere - the small town, little cafes, and the ocean/beach really set the mood."
Lori Gross
LGross6763@aol.com
"It exceeded my expectations... I feel so fortunate to have this experience! Each day was non-stressful with just the right amount of information and advice. I never felt rushed nor bored. I am so motivated with confidence. I don't know where this will lead me, but know you have positively affected me for the rest of my life... Each instructor has so much to offer. Your honesty and true enthusiasm for everyone's writings and thoughts is definitely the strength for each instructor... Thank you for making this such a special week in my life that I will never forget. You have inspired me, educated me, and encouraged me. I am so very grateful to you all."
Mary Virkus
selectmary@aol.com
Instructor Panel Discussion 2005