Where stories for young readers come alive
Join authors, illustrators, and industry agents for a transformative week of craft, critique, and community in Salt Lake City.
WIFYR All Year Events
New workshops and community events are on the way. Browse events or join the waitlist for announcements.
A Week of Transformation
We're finalizing a stellar lineup of faculty and workshops. Join the waitlist to get full access to morning workshops and afternoon critiques the moment they launch.
Morning Workshops
Four full days of intensive craft study. Whether you write picture books, middle grade, or young adult, our faculty is selected to provide industry-level insight.
- Intensive Craft Sessions
- Expert Faculty Instruction
- Faculty Announcement Coming Soon...
Individual Consultations
Optional one-on-one sessions with agents and editors. Get direct feedback on your manuscript or portfolio from the people who shape the market.
- Manuscript Critiques
- Portfolio Reviews
- Agent List Launching Jan 2027...
Get on the List
Waitlist members get 48-hour early access to registration—essential for securing spots in our most popular workshop tracks.
Priority Registration Access
Creators already on the waitlist
WIFYR All Year
The conference is just the beginning. Stay connected through regional meetups, monthly challenges, and mentorship circles designed to keep your creative momentum going.
Prompt of the Month
A new writing or illustration prompt every month, with peer feedback and featured showcases in our community gallery.
Creative Gatherings
In-person evenings of networking, portfolio review, and guest speakers. Connect with fellow creators in your local area.
New Voices Circle
Small-group mentorship pairing emerging creators with published authors and illustrators for deep growth.
Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers (WIFYR)
Wants YOU to Publish
We know you want more than a weekend filled with classes where teachers talk AT you. Our week-long conference is filled with hands-on workshops where the faculty work WITH you on your manuscript. As a participant, you get feedback from an agent or editor on your writing, opportunities to network with writers, and five days of breakout sessions filled with craft-specific topics designed for kidlit authors.
Once WIFYR week is complete, you're not stranded. There's year-round support designed to help you achieve your writing and publishing goals.
Ready to join us?
Registration for the 2027 Annual Conference opens soon. Sign up below to be the first to know, plus receive monthly writing prompts and community news.
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