Whether you’re on a trip around the world or across town, you have the chance to bring back experiences that people will enjoy reading about. But, how can you turn a good vacation story into great travel writing? Learn how domestic and international travel guides are put together and how the Internet has opened possibilities for you to publish your own travel writing and photography.
 

Libby Fischer Hellmann — 20-20-20: Dialogue-Plot-Setting

Three of the "tentpoles" of fiction writing are dialogue, plot, and setting. These crucial elements can make or break your novel. Libby Fischer Hellmann, an award-winning suspense writer, will discuss the basics of each element and how to make them work in your own fiction.
 

Every person has a unique story. Don’t be forgotten in two generations. Learn how to motivate yourself and organize your stories into a written legacy for your family. Receive guidance and inspiration to begin or continue writing your life reflections under the direction of memoirist Rosanne Gulisano. Leave behind more than just "the money." Leave a part of your spirit, too.
 

Craig Hickman— Research for Nonfiction Writing

Craig Hickman is the author of more than a dozen business books—among them such bestsellers as The Oz Principle; The Strategy Game; Mind of a Manager, Soul of a Leader; and Creating Excellence—and is also the author of a new fiction thriller, The Insiders. Mr. Hickman will speak about the process of doing research for nonfiction writing and his experience with traditional publishing and self-publishing.

Ilene Cooper — The Ins and Outs and Ups and Downs of Writing for Kids   

Ilene Cooper, author of more than 30 books for children, will talk about different aspects of writing for young people, including what’s hot and what’s not; what publishers today are looking for; and ways to improve a manuscript. As well as being an author, Ms. Cooper is the Children’s Books Editor at Booklist, the review journal of the American Library Association.

Sharon Woodhouse — What a Publisher Wants to See

I finally made it this far—now what? Sharon Woodhouse is the founder and publisher of Lake Claremont Press, a local, independent publisher specializing in books about the Chicago area and its history. She has counseled over 300 new college graduates, aspiring authors, and career changers on book proposal writing, book publishing, and careers in publishing.