Whether you're looking for examples of quality writing or exploring new genres, here at Whale Rock we regularly turn to mentor texts as part of our curriculum. In January 2026 we're going to take mentor texts to a whole new level. Join Gary Schmidt as he brings his many years' of experience teaching literature to both undergraduates and to MFA students to explore the history of children's literature through your lens as children's authors.

Originally aimed at teaching and educating young people, children’s literature has also often been subversive in fascinating ways, undercutting adult power and expectations. Incorporating readings, prompts, and writing assignments, writers participating in this seminar will explore questions about how it was that children’s literature responded to cultural claims and patterns in given periods, AND they will consider how contemporary writers might respond to similar claims and patterns.

Participants will look at the major figures in children’s books in a given period, their writing, and consider the ways these authors and illustrators saw their work in relationship to their child readers and their larger culture. We'll use these conversations to inform ourselves about our own work as authors (and illustrators) at this moment in time.

You will complete this workshop with:

A more academic overview of the history of children's literature.
A deeper understanding of the purpose children's literature has served both for young readers and for the culture as a whole.
More personal insight into your role as a children's author at this moment in time.
New story ideas and inspiration

This workshop is for you if:

You are passionate about children's literature, either as a reader, a writer or illustrator, or both.
You are an author or illustrator who is excited about an academic and creative writing workshop.
You are an author or illustrator seeking inspiration, trying to find your stories in these complex times.

A Writer’s History of Children’s Literature