Started in February 2021, Queer KidLit Creators is a free, all-volunteer-powered safe space gathering of Queer-identified Children’s and Teen Literature Writers, Translators, and illustrators. If you identify as Queer and your creative work includes kid lit, there are 7 very cool things you can do with us! If you’d like to join any (or all) of these, simply email me at leewind (at) roadrunner (dot) com to be added to the list.

#1 We have monthly zoom meetings (on alternating Saturdays and Sundays) once a month from 10am-11:30am Pacific. We do introductions, discuss pressing questions and concerns, support each other with advice and insights, and end with Queer Kid Lit book recommendations! It’s always a great discussion and gathering. (Volunteer host: me, Lee)

#2 Every weekday at 1pm Pacific, a group of us gather on a zoom meeting to write for a 12 minute writing sprint. It’s a few minutes of socializing, then we get to work! With credit to Linda Sue Park for the idea, it’s amazing how productive you can be with just 12 minutes a day! (Volunteer host: Giselle)

#3 We have a Bookshop.com booklist of “Pride Books” kid lit from our group, which we can all help promote. (Volunteer host: Federico)

#4 Critique Corner: there’s a safe space online to share your work in progress (manuscripts and/or illustrations), and get feedback from members of the community! You can specify the type of feedback you’re hoping for. (Volunteer hosts: Claire and Justin)

#5 We have a Facebook group (Looking for a second volunteer host for this…)

#6 I send out a monthly email with shout-outs to upcoming and recently released titles from the group that includes that month’s Zoom link.

#7 What else can you dream up and help make happen?

As you can see, there’s so much going on, and it’s all run by members of the community for the community. I’m grateful to be part of the group I needed, and to hold a safe space for us. Again, if you’re Queer and you create Kid Lit, you’re welcome to join – just send me an email request to: leewind (at) roadrunner (dot) com

Stay safe, all,
Lee