workshop retreats

Workshop retreats are designed for writers and illustrators who want to create, learn, and connect with other children’s-book makers in an intimate, communal setting. 10 guests are led by 2 experienced, supportive master teachers. There will be time to rest and recharge, to explore Milkwood and the surrounding property, but the focus is on rigorous morning and afternoon workshop sessions.

In 2024, we will offer four workshop retreats: a Graphic Novel and Comics Workshop for BIPOC Creators, led Ruth Chan and Sharee Miller; an Illustrators Workshop, led by Cecilia Ruiz and Doug Salati; a Workshop for Writers of Picture Books, led by Annie Barrows and Susan Rich; and a “Things to Look Forward To” workshop, led by Sophie Blackall, and open to any and all creative adults, in and outside the children’s book community..

Mealtime is especially important at workshop retreats. Around the long farmhouse table in the dining room, or at picnic tables under dramatic sunsets, guests have the opportunity to review the day’s work, share stories, and make connections and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Each workshop retreat accommodates 10 people.

Prices for workshop retreats include accommodations and all meals from Thursday afternoon to Sunday afternoon.
Single rooms are $1,800 for workshop retreats and $2,100 for the “Things to Look Forward To” workshop.
Two bedrooms offer the possibility of double occupancy, at $1,450 per person for workshop retreats and $1,750 for the “Things to Look Forward To” workshop.

DAILY SCHEDULE for WORKSHOP RETREATS

Thursday

2:00-6:00 PM — Arrival and check-in

6:00-7:00 PM — Appetizers and cocktails in the library

7:00 PM-9:00 PM — Dinner in the dining room

9:00 PM — Introductory assignment

Friday

7:00-9:00 AM — Breakfast in the dining room

9:00 AM-12:30 PM — Workshop

12:30-1:00 PM — Free time

1:00-2:00 PM — Lunch in the dining room

2:00-5:30 PM — Workshop

5:30-6:00 PM — Free time

6:30-7:00 PM — Drinks in the open-air pole barn

7:00-9:00 PM — Cookout dinner in the garden

9:00 PM — Dessert around the fire pit

Saturday

7:00-9:00 AM — Breakfast in the dining room

9:00 AM-12:30 PM — Workshop

12:30-1:00 PM — Free time

1:00-2:00 PM — Lunch in the dining room

2:00-5:30 PM — Workshop

5:30-6:00 PM — Free time

6:00-7:00 PM — Appetizers and cocktails in the bar

7:00-9:00 PM — Dinner in the hayloft

9:00 PM — Show & Tell by guests in the hayloft

These Show & Tell presentations are short, informal, and voluntary. This is your chance to preview new work, sing a song, tell a story, entertain or amaze your fellow retreaters. We have a microphone, music stands, a projector and screen, and a sound system.

Sunday

8:00-10:00 AM — Breakfast

10:00 AM-12:00 PM — Workshop

1:00-2:00 PM — Lunch in the dining room

2:00 PM — Check-out and farewells