Expert advice on how to write for kids

Lafayette - The Northwest Jersey Reading Council held its 18th Annual Young Authors’ Conference on Saturday, April 24 at Lafayette Township School. The Council is a professional organization for teachers, administrators, and parents interested in promoting literacy. The Young Authors’ Conference offers an opportunity for budding writers to share their work with other students and friends, and to expand their skills by participating in hands-on workshops conducted by literacy educators. It’s also a chance to hear a professional children’s author and illustrator share their own creative process, path to publication and creative inspiration with up-and-coming writers. This year’s featured presenter was Author-illustrator Trinka Hakes Noble, a nationally-recognized author/illustrator. Her latest book, The New Jersey Reader, pays homage to the Garden State, the state Trinka calls home. It showcases the state’s rich heritage and natural charms as well as its prominent place in American history. In addition, local writer Dr. Raymond Frey addressed the adult session, and former Lafayette School teacher and author, Dorothy Callahan spoke to the younger attendees. This year, Ashlee Campbell, a sophomore in the Graphic Arts shop at Sussex County Technical School, designed the conference’s T-shirt.