The Austin SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) is committed to providing resources and programs to strengthen the writing and illustrating skills of members and help them achieve their creative goals. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by working with a mentor – a published professional – and learning from their expertise. To support the creative endeavors of children’s book writers and illustrators, the Austin Avant Mentoring Program was designed to be a customizable, individualized, relationship-based program designed by the mentee and the mentor. The AAMP is open to members and non-members of SCBWI.

Mentors make a commitment of time and effort because they love to see people succeed. The same professional work ethic is expected from each mentee. While becoming published is the ultimate goal of any writer/artist, the intention of the mentoring relationship is to hone solid artistic and professional skills.

Mentoring Program Guidelines

Participants select a mentor from the available list of genre-specific professionals. Mentors set their own fee scale beginning at $50.00 per session payable prior to initial meeting. A session structure is determined by the mentor and the mentee. Multiple sessions can be arranged between mentor and mentee.

Qualifications

Mentor Qualifications

• SCBWI Pal Member
• Published writing or illustrations in books or magazines
• MFA graduate or academic equivalent

Mentee Qualifications

• Open to anyone 18 years or older
• SCBWI Members or Non-members

Types of Mentor Service Available

• Professional and Career Services (marketing, getting an agent, website platform, etc.)
• Critique and Craft Services (portfolio reviews, genre specific partial manuscript reviews, writing a synopsis, query or cover letters, etc.)