workshops

Workshops 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 2025, we will offer four Workshops: an Image Making Workshop, led Sophie Blackall and Deborah Stein; a Picture Book Editing and Design Workshop, led by Sophie Blackall, Martha Rags, and Anne Schwartz; an Illustrators Workshop, led by Cecilia Ruiz and Doug Salati; and a Workshop for Writers of Picture Books, led by Annie Barrows and Susan Rich.

Mealtime is especially important at Workshops. 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 accommodates 10 people.

Prices for Workshops include accommodations and all meals from Thursday dinner to Sunday lunch.
Single rooms are $1,800 for Workshops.
Two bedrooms offer the possibility of double occupancy, at $1,450 per person for Workshops.

The Picture Book Editing and Design Workshop is endowed by Anne Schwartz and there is no cost to attend. Accommodations and all meals are included.

DAILY SCHEDULE for WORKSHOPS

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 projector, a screen, and a speaker.

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