Jide Ogunlana To Headline Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop

 

JIDE OGUNLANA TO HEADLINE IBADAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE WORKSHOP

 

The Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop is set to host Mr. Jide Ogunlana, an award-winning children’s writer, novelist, editor, playwright, and professional publisher, as its keynote facilitator for this month’s edition. Known for his contributions to the growth of children’s literature in Nigeria, Ogunlana will bring his wealth of experience to guide participants on mastering the art of writing for young audiences.

This was revealed in a statement issued by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan on Saturday.

Scheduled for November 30, 2024, the workshop will take place at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Ibadan, starting at 12 PM. The event promises to be an enriching experience for aspiring and established writers seeking to deepen their craft and understanding of children’s literature.

The workshop will cover a wide range of essential topics. Participants will explore the different genres of children’s books, from picture books and chapter books to middle-grade fiction and young adult novels. They will also learn about crafting age-appropriate content, creating engaging plots, and developing memorable characters and themes tailored for young readers.

Ogunlana will delve into the art of writing engaging dialogue and narratives that captivate young audiences. Emphasis will also be placed on the role of illustrations in children’s books, highlighting techniques for creating visually appealing artwork and fostering effective collaboration between authors and illustrators.

A special segment will focus on addressing sensitive topics such as bullying, grief, and disability in a manner that is both age-appropriate and impactful. Additionally, Ogunlana will discuss ways to reflect local culture, history, and traditions in storytelling, as well as the importance of writing in indigenous languages and promoting bilingual books.

For aspiring authors navigating the publishing landscape, the workshop will offer insights into the pros and cons of traditional publishing versus self-publishing. Ogunlana will also share tips on finding and working with literary agents or publishers, ensuring participants leave equipped to take their work to the next level.

Marketing strategies will be a key highlight of the event, with discussions on leveraging social media, organizing school visits, and participating in book fairs to reach a broader audience. Writers will also receive valuable guidance on copyright and intellectual property considerations for children’s books.

Organizers of the Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop are excited to offer this opportunity to writers passionate about creating meaningful and engaging content for children. The event aligns with their mission to nurture and mentor the next generation of children’s literature creators.

Participation in the workshop is open to all, with prior registration required. Writers, educators, illustrators, and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to attend. For more information and registration details, contact the organizers at [Wole Adedoyin - 08072673852].

This workshop is more than an event—it’s a movement to shape the future of children’s literature in Nigeria. Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the most respected voices in the field.

 

Call for Participation – Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop

 

CALL FOR PARTICIPATION – IBADAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE WORKSHOP

 

Are you a children's writer or interested in writing for children? Here’s a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of children’s literature at this month’s Free Children's Literature Workshop!

DATE: 30th November, 2024
VENUE: Oyo State Library Board, Opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State
TIME: 12:00 PM

Topics to Be Covered:

• Understanding Children's Literature: Exploring its significance and impact.
• Genres of Children's Books: Picture books, chapter books, middle-grade fiction, young adult novels, and more.
• Cultural Shaping Through Literature: The role of children's books in shaping values and traditions.
• Age-Appropriate Writing: Crafting content suitable for different age groups.
• Storytelling Techniques: Developing plot, characters, and themes for young audiences.
• Dialogue and Narrative: Writing engaging and relatable stories for children.
• Illustrations in Children's Books: Their importance and how to collaborate with illustrators.
• Addressing Sensitive Topics: Approaching issues like bullying, grief, and disability effectively.
• Incorporating Local Culture: Reflecting indigenous traditions and languages in stories.
• Publishing Options: Traditional vs. self-publishing, and tips for working with literary agents.
• Marketing Strategies: Promoting books via social media, school visits, and book fairs.
• Copyright Essentials: Protecting intellectual property in children's publishing.

BENEFIT:

• Certificate of Participation will be issued to all attendees.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and network with fellow writers passionate about children's literature.

For inquiries or registration, please contact [[Wole Adedoyin on 08072673852].].

We look forward to welcoming you to this enlightening workshop!

 

MEET OUR GUEST LECTURER/WRITER

Jide Ogunlana is a celebrated novelist, editor, playwright, and professional publisher whose literary contributions have earned him a place among Nigeria’s most accomplished writers. Two of his plays, Verbal Violence and Clash of the Gods, were successfully staged at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Theatre, University of Ibadan. His short story collection, From Marriage to Prison, is widely read at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and other higher institutions. Additionally, his short stories and excerpts have been featured in various editions of the ANA Review published by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

A multiple award-winning author, Ogunlana’s children’s storybook, Primrose and the Kidnappers, won the 2018 ANA Prize for Children’s Literature. In 2021, his storybook A Girl Called Corona Sofia garnered the same prestigious award, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding writer for young audiences. Many of Ogunlana’s books are also featured in the approved reading lists of Oyo and Osun States' Ministries of Education, attesting to their educational value and cultural significance.

Ogunlana’s publications reflect his versatility and creativity, spanning genres and languages. They include Esin Amope (in Yoruba), The Adventure of Three Wild Boys (published under the pseudonym Wale Adewale), The 3rd of March and Out of This World, and Awesu in a Strange House.

As an editor, Ogunlana’s career began with Evans Brothers (Nig. Publishers) Ltd, where he gained extensive experience as a Senior Editor, working with renowned local and international authors. He later founded his own publishing company, Lerato Book Publishers, where he continues to excel as a writer, editor, rewriter, and publisher. Ogunlana has also edited remarkable works by notable Nigerian authors, including the prose of Dr. Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) and former Member of the House of Representatives. His editing portfolio includes the biography of a former governor and the prose of Diipo Fagunwa, the only surviving child of the legendary D.O. Fagunwa.

Ogunlana has also distinguished himself as a biographer, authoring the autobiographies of notable figures such as High Chief Theophilus Olaleye Olutola, the Odofin of Ijebu-Jesa, and Prof. Samuel Olusegun Ayodele, a renowned professor of Language Education.

As an active member of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Ogunlana recently served as Chairman of the Electoral Committee for the 2024 elections of the Oyo State chapter of ANA. He is also a patron of the Ibadan Book Club, where his contributions to literary development are greatly appreciated.

With an impressive career spanning writing, publishing, and mentorship, Jide Ogunlana continues to inspire both readers and writers with his dedication to advancing literature and education.

 

SYNW Congratulates Farida Mohammed on Her 57th Birthday

 SYNW CONGRATULATES FARIDA MOHAMMED ON HER 57TH BIRTHDAY

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has Congratulated Hajia Farida Mohammed, the immediate past National Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), on the joyous occasion of her 57th birthday.

This message of felicitation was conveyed in a statement issued by Wole Adedoyin, the President of SYNW. In the statement, Adedoyin highlighted Farida Mohammed's immense contributions to the literary community in Nigeria, describing her as a passionate and dedicated leader whose efforts have inspired many young writers across the country.

Hajia Farida Mohammed, a seasoned educator, served as the Chairperson of the Niger State Chapter of ANA before rising to the position of National Treasurer and eventually National Vice President of the association. Her tenure in these roles was marked by her unwavering commitment to the development of literature and the support of writers at all levels.

Adedoyin commended Hajia Mohammed for her tireless advocacy for the literary arts and her instrumental role in advancing ANA’s objectives. He noted that her legacy of service continues to resonate within the Nigerian literary community and beyond.

The SYNW President also used the occasion to call on young writers to emulate Hajia Mohammed's dedication and passion for literature, emphasizing the importance of leadership and mentorship in building a sustainable literary ecosystem in Nigeria.

As Hajia Farida Mohammed marks her 57th birthday, SYNW wished her continued success, good health, and prosperity. Her contributions to the growth of Nigerian literature remain a testimony to her enduring impact on the country's cultural and intellectual landscape.

Soludo, Obi, Obaze, Others Expected at 2024 Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture

 SOLUDO, OBI, OBAZE, OTHERS EXPECTED AT 2024 ACHEBE LITERARY FESTIVAL AND MEMORIAL LECTURE 

Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, will be agog on Saturday, as top public figures, writers, intellectuals, literary activists, book lovers, and others, as young writers in the State set to host the 2024 edition of the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture.

Izunna Okafor, the State Coordinator of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), disclosed this on Wednesday in Awka while giving update on the association's preparedness for the 2024 edition of the Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture.

According to him, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, initiated in 2016 and currently in its 9th edition, is a literary event the association annually organizes in honour and memory of Nigerian literary icon, Late Prof. Chinua Achebe, in celebration of his life, works and legacies. He added that this year's event will (as usual) hold on Achebe's birthday, November 16, 2024, at the Anambra State Central E-Library (also known as the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library Library) in Awka, starting at 9AM prompt; with many dignitaries and participants in attendance.

While revealing this year's theme of the event as “Remembering Achebe... In a Time Like This”; Okafor further disclosed that the 2024 Achebe Memorial Lecture will be delivered by former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi; while the current Governor of the State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo would be the Special Guest of Honour.

He added that this year's event would be Chaired by an author and former official of the United Nations, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, who is also a former Secretary to the State Government in Anambra. Okafor further noted that award-winning writer and Traditional Ruler of Obosi, H.R.H. Igwe Chidubem Iweka; the Traditional Ruler of Achebe's hometown, Ogidi, H.R.H. Igwe Pharm. Alex Uzo Onyido; and the Traditional Ruler of Umueri, Igwe Sir Ben Emeka, an ardent promoter of education will grace the occasion as the Royal Fathers of the Day; among many other dignitaries expected at the event.

“The event will feature the 2024 Achebe Lecture, drama, spoken word poetry, announcement of the winners of the 2024 Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition (for secondary schools), special reading, award presentation, among other literary packages slated for the day,” Okafor said.

He hinted that the occasion will also feature the unveiling and presentation of the 9th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology, titled “Echoes from the Anthills”; which is the association's latest international anthology of poems and essays, published in honour and memory of Achebe ahead of the event.

The annual international anthology, he explained, is one of the writers' way of immortalizing Achebe, and contains poems, essays, and reviews written and submitted by writers from different countries of the world.

Reports have it that the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture has attracted many good legs and good heads to Anambra State, and remains one of the most popular and sustained literary festivals in Africa, since the last nine years of its inception and still counting.

Okafor, an award-winning author and journalist further revealed that this year's edition of the open-to-all event, which will also mark Achebe's 94th posthumous birthday and eleven years of his death, will equally be graced by arrays of literary icons from within and outside the country, who will be storming Awka to honour the legendary author, Achebe.

Born November 16, 1930, Prof. Chinua Achebe, who hailed from Ogidi in Anambra State, was a foremost Nigerian writer, critic, and author of Things Fall Apart. He died on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82. Since 2016, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival holds on Achebe's birthday every year till date.