“I could never thank the Highlghts Foundation enough for setting me on my writing career!” (Julia Wilder Banta)

Crash Course alumni Julia Wilder Banta doesn’t mean to speak in hyperbole, but she is also adamant:  “The Highlights Foundation and The Crash Course in Children’s Publishing changed my life,” she says.

We asked Julia to answer a few questions about her experiences, her goals, and how she’s using what she’s learned at the Highlights Foundation to inspire kids through story.  We hope you enjoy this Q&A, and then consider whether The Crash Course in Children’s Publishing is right for you!

What made you choose The Crash Course in Children’s Publishing as your first course with the Highlights Foundation?

Well, 2020 was the beginning of change for most of us, with the onset of the pandemic. Having recently retired from teaching, I was ready to fulfill my dream of being an author. I had written stories for my students with autism, helping them navigate their world, and I wanted to continue writing.

A friend told me to look into Highlights Foundation; that I might find my answer there. I did!

The Crash Course in Children’s Publishing taught me the necessary fundamentals of writing children’s books. I learned about agents, editors, publishing and resources. And it was online!  Because of The Crash Course in Children’s Publishing, I found my critique group, and eventually an agent.  My agent helped me land three picture book publishing contracts.  We’ve also got two more on submission, and I’ve got nine more manuscripts waiting in the wings.

What types of courses are you taking now, and how are they still helping on your journey?

The courses I took after Crash were two online picture book workshops with Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, Picture Book Plotting A-Z and Picture Book Character A-Z.  Those really helped me hone in on the craft of writing picture books, and 1:1 feedback with Sudipta was also invaluable.  Now I continue to take Highlights Foundation courses and webinars that match areas of skills I want to build, and for inspiration.

Plus, it’s great to know that an amazing staff is always there with support and encouragement.  While skills are so important, a staff member (Rona Shirdan) gave me courage and inspiration to put those skills to work and not give up.  I will forever be indebted to her for taking time with me over the phone. She made me brave!  One day I’ll visit the Highlights Foundation campus to (hopefully) meet Rona in person, with the rest of the staff that is so dedicated to helping children’s book writers and illustrators thrive.

What do you hope kids take away from your books when they’re out in the world?

I love writing, and the thought that my books will soon inspire young dream seekers and creators with new perspectives, humor, and mystery—that is just amazing to me. Books should be the path for a child navigating their world, and I’m so excited to be a part of that.

“Thank you Highlights Foundation for helping me write my own story!  Hopefully it will be a very long and meaningful one.” (Julia Wilder Banta)