While the parchment in Eori Tokunaga’s illustration is blank, the scene is bursting with possibility. From the mouse hefting pen to paper to the caterpillar munching an impressionistic pattern to the ants marching in to make their own mark, each critter seems poised to create in its own way. So, it’s no surprise that this illustration was selected as the winning entry in the contest to create the theme art for SCBWI-L.A.’s upcoming Writers & Illustrators Day.
The winning image represents an experience “bursting with possibility.”
Read on to learn more about Eori, her process, and what inspired her winning entry…
Sketch Crawls kicked off with a meet-up at the downtown Los Angeles Public Library
Los Angeles area kid lit creatives have a new, fun way to gather. Hosted by illustrator Laura Burris, the SCBWI-Los Angeles Sketch Crawls are free events open to all, SCBWI members and the general L.A. community alike.
The library atrium captured the artists’ imaginations
Jessica Cooper, illustrator coordinator for the region, shares her impression of last month’s inaugural event.
“We had such a fun time at the first SCBWI-Los Angeles Sketch Crawl, hosted by illustrator Laura Burris.
“We went to the Central Los Angeles Library where we sketched and explored the exhibits and beautiful architecture. The library was built in 1925, so they have a 100-year anniversary exhibition inside the library, complete with an opened 100-year-old time capsule.”
Upcoming Sketch Crawls are planned for later this spring and in the summer. They’re great opportunities to sketch, socialize, and soak up inspiration at some iconic spots around the city.
Jessica, Laura, and the entire L.A. regional team extend a warm invitation to all. “If you’re in the LA area and you’re a children’s book illustrator, writer or creator, come join us for our next Sketch Crawl event. Check out the SCBWI-L.A. homepage for more details.”
For more fantastic content, community, events, and other professional development opportunities, become a member today! Not sure if there is a chapter in your area? Check here.
Photos and graphics by Laura Burris; Artwork courtesy of Sketch Crawl participants.
“There’s nothing quite like sitting on the edge of your seat at the SCBWI-L.A. Writer’s Day, holding your breath as the winners of the contest are announced,” says author-artist Rilla Jaggia. “I’d done this before, never expecting to hear my name. But in March 2024, as the judge’s description was read, I knew the winning YA manuscript was mine. And there it was, the title of my work and my name on the giant screen. Surreal!”
Rilla Jaggia accepts Writers Day 2024 award from SCBWI-L.A. Contest Coordinator Brenda Scott Royce
As a previous winner myself (and our region’s Contest Coordinator), I can echo Rilla’s sentiments. The thrill is real, and to me, the morale boost that comes with winning (or placing) in any contest is more precious than the tangible prizes. Just entering can be a reward in itself, providing the motivation you need to polish your manuscript and send it out into the world.
So, I’m happy to announce that the contest is back! After a year’s hiatus, SCBWI-L.A. is hosting Writers & Illustrators Day in May 2026. And this year we are offering TWO contests: 1) The writers contest we’ve come to know and love, and 2) a brand new competition for illustrators.
SCBWI members’ publishing news is something to celebrate here at Kite Tales! Check out whose book is coming to a platform near you or around the world. Horn-tooting and digital high fives welcome in the comments!
I’ve been a proud member of SCBWI since the mid-1980s. I was a young, unpublished writer who met other dreamers at a National Convention in Southern California. Forty or so years later, we remain best of friends, with children’s books that cross age groups and genres. I was thrilled to be selected as the mentor for the 2025 SCBWI-Los Angeles Mentorship Contest for Middle Grade Authors. Giving back is a rewarding way to honor the many mentors who helped shape my career.
“Ask an Editor” is a forum wherein SCBWI members submit questions that are answered quarterly as part of our Kite Tales blog.
Hi Christine – I keep hearing about “literary citizenship.” How does this apply to authors?
– KD, Redondo
Hello KD – For me, literary citizenship means establishing and maintaining relationships. It also means giving throughout our careers without expecting something in return; relationships aren’t a 50-50 thing. But, just wait; those relationships will pay off, guaranteed.
Art by Trish Heully, winner of the 2026 retreat logo contest
by Ann Rousseau Smith, SCBWI CenCal News Liaison
Join us for a weekend of adventure, pursuing creativity at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort in San Simeon along the beach – March 6-8, 2026. You decide how much you want to participate. Choose to do as much or as little as you wish.
The Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, San Simeon
The early-bird price of $350 includes all meals, a short introductory talk by literary agent Kayla Cichello of Upstart Crow, inspirational critique groups, plenty of time to write and create, and evening campfire fun – perfect for those who just want to get away and concentrate on writing or illustrating.
January is not just right around the corner—it’s tomorrow! But don’t panic. We still have time to make our resolutions or More/Less lists (see below and linked), and to dream big for 2026. Hopefully, revisiting some of the ideas and insights in Kite Tales’ 2025 posts through the quotes and article links below will provide a fresh sprinkle of information and inspiration to help you get started. Write on. Draw on. Read on!
by Kim Wildman, Regional Advisor, SCBWI Los Angeles
As the year wraps up, we hope you remember that your words and pictures to the children of the world matter. They play a vital role by planting seeds of hope, building courage, and lighting up young minds to the endless possibilities in front of them.
Please join us in our 2026 programming as we continue to grow, learn, and challenge ourselves to reach new heights, finish more projects, and touch more hearts with wonder.
Happy Holidays! From the CenCal Team
May the spirit of the season spark your creativity in new ways. Los Angeles Regional Team
Wishing you joy, time with loved ones, and inspiration this holiday season. Warmly, The SCBWI SoCal Regional Team
For more fantastic content, community, events, and other professional development opportunities, become a member today! Not sure if there is a chapter in your area? Check here.
SCBWI members’ publishing news is something to celebrate here at Kite Tales! Check out whose book is coming to a platform near you or around the world. Horn-tooting and digital high fives welcome in the comments!
Kite Tales 