From Specific to Universal to Acquired!

An Imprint Curator's Perspective on Picture Books with Cynthia Leitich-Smith

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What does it take to get a manuscript through submissions?

Heartdrum (HarperChildren's) author-curator Cynthia Leitich Smith offers an inside look at the journey from spark to acquisition. This session explores picture book categories, writing with both throughline and illustration in mind, the balance of fresh and familiar, and the role of research and cultural considerations. Smith will discuss poetic prose, the craft of humor, and the revision process--both independent and editorial. Using Heartdrum titles, including her own, as model-mentor texts, she highlights picture books as a collaborative art form and what makes a story a strong fit for an imprint.

This webinar purchase includes lifetime access to the 90-minute video, transcript, and downloadable audio track.



"THANK YOU so much Cynthia for a stellar session. Super useful because you provided concrete content that I can employ."

- Stacey Millett


"Such an inspiring presentation! Great insights...It was also helpful to see throughlines. Your case studies provide a great framework to keep in mind as we are reading like writers."

- Renee Bartos


Your Instructor


Cynthia Leitich-Smith
Cynthia Leitich-Smith
Cynthia Leitich Smith is the New York Times bestselling, award-winning author and anthologist of more than 20 books for young readers. She was named a 2025 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award Candidate, the NSK Neustadt Laureate, Texas Literary Hall of Fame inductee, and winner of the Southern Miss Medallion for Outstanding Contributions in Children’s Literature. She is the author-curator of Heartdrum, a Native-focused imprint at HarperCollins Children’s Books, and served as the Katherine Paterson Inaugural Chair for the children’s-YA writing MFA program at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Cynthia is a citizen of the Muscogee Nation and lives in Texas.

Course Curriculum


  From Specific to Universal to Acquired! An Imprint Curator's Perspective on Picture Books
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 14 days and we will give you a full refund.

"Thank you, Cynthia! This was super engaging and helpful! Powerful!"

- Gabi


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