Author: Sarah

That’s not a REAL book. Whether you write teen romance like Sara, create graphic novels like Stan, or explore storytelling through another vehicle that people routinely look down their noses at, join our conversation about how to reach reluctant readers by creating accessible books. Participants will learn how to win over the naysayers, become the gatekeepers’ go-to creator, experiment with new guerrilla marketing techniques, and–most importantly–connect kids with their perfect books!

To put this theme into practice, Franklin Taylor, founder of Our Future Reads, will speak about how his organization puts books into the hands of curious readers. Attendees are invited to bring along a book to donate at the event.

Sara Fujimura (Foo-gee-moo-rah) is the American half of her bicultural Japanese-American family and spends about a month each year in Japan. She started as a journalist, so it is no surprise that Sara’s young adult books contain a lot of facts to go along with the fiction. Whether you want to know about Japan (TANABATA WISH), the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 (BREATHE), what it’s like to be an Olympic-caliber skater (EVERY REASON WE SHOULDN’T), or how unscripted television works (FAKING REALITY), Sara takes readers on swoony journeys to unusual places. She is a creative writing teacher and literacy advocate who is excited to support the next generation of authors. If you go to anime cons, you may also see Sara as her alter ego, The Obento Lady. She is an active member of SCBWI and the Chicago-North Romance Writers.

Stan is an award-winning, first generation American-born-Chinese, Denver-based writer, illustrator, caricature artist and instructor.

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 7:00 PM
Dandelion Bookshop,
139 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL

For our second book club, we’ll be discussing The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang by Stan Yan, about a girl born on a day considered unlucky in Chinese superstition who starts to wonder if she really is cursed…

School Library Journal’s starred review describes this debut graphic novel as “unique, amusing, and compulsively readable.” Come along to share your thoughts, questions, and musings. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the author-illustrator, Stan Yan, at our July network event!

Bonus: Purchase your copy of The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang from Dandelion Bookshop for store pickup or delivery to your doorstep and receive a 10% discount.

In this interactive discussion, Sarah Aronson will offer ideas and inspiration to help you craft a picture book, including character arc, narrative, setting, and picture book structure. With the help of mentor texts, Every Monday Mabel and Touch the Sky as well as Sarah’s picture books, we will talk about every aspect of the process, from drafting to revision.

Bring a manuscript and questions! Let’s have a picture book party!

Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 7:00 PM, at Dandelion Bookshop,
139 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL

During Valentine’s week, we’re thrilled to welcome Jenna Satterthwaite of Storm Literary Agency for a discussion on MG/YA publishing, life as a literary agent, and what she looks for in a submission. She is also a published author and will share views from the writer’s perspective as well.

Attendees of the event will have the opportunity to submit their work. Join us for the conversation and bring your questions!

The equivalent of the Oscars for American youth literature took place this morning: the American Library Association Youth Media Awards 2026.

Braving a Chicagoan winter cold snap, I was thrilled to attend alongside librarians, authors, illustrators, and lovers of literature. It was wonderful to hear the roar of applause for kidlit creatives. What a treat to fiercely celebrate these valuable contributions to the world.

Congratulations to the nominees and winners, listed here!

In November, I was thrilled that our network co-hosted a conversation with New York Times bestseller, Michelle Jabès Corpora, about her current highly acclaimed Ancient Egyptian-inspired trilogy: The Throne of Khetara. As well as learning about her journey, we gleaned writers’ tips and a glimpse into her process.

If you’re interested in learning more, recordings of both events are available until December 24. Click here to listen in.

When?      Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 7:00 PM,

Where?      Dandelion Bookshop, 139 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL

No matter which holiday you celebrate, join our SCBWI Illinois Near West Suburban Network  to toast the festive season, the milestones and achievements of our respective creative journeys, and connect with our kidlit community in our new network home, Dandelion Bookshop. All are welcome! Please bring along a beverage of your choice plus a dessert or appetizer to share. RSVP to attend.

Click here for parking and transport links.