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Writing is more than putting words on paper, it’s an art form and a way to discover your unique voice.
This year’s conference offers exciting new sessions led by inspiring presenters, including several young adult authors who know how to make stories come alive! Students can explore creative topics such as Radio & TV Announcing, Creating a Quest, Sketch Comedy & Comic Book creations, How to Catch a Poem, Telling Your Story and even a Creative Writing Pitch session, just to name a few.
Designed to spark the imagination and build confidence, this one-day event connects students and authors in an interactive, hands-on learning experience. Together, they’ll explore how to craft stories, express ideas, and turn creativity into opportunity.
Writing opens doors, so come see where your words can take you!
We would like to highlight our amazing presenters. They use writing tools to make it fun and engaging. Their energy and excitement activates creativity and sparks ideas. They enjoy interacting with students and are impressed with the students clever imaginations. So, don't forget to check out their bios on the Meet Your Presenters page in the brochure.
The Conference for Young Writers is offered to students in grades 3-8.
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Keynote Speaker: Daniel Bernstrom, author
Daniel Bernstrom, an acclaimed picture book author, overcame early reading struggles—even repeating first grade—to become a celebrated voice in children's literature. His books have garnered numerous accolades, including nominations for state reading awards in Illinois, Iowa, and Arizona. Daniel shares his passion for storytelling and literacy as a full-time English instructor at Minnesota West Community and Technical College, where he teaches Children’s Literature, College Writing, and Developmental English.Daniel R. Bernstrom is the critically acclaimed author of seven picture books, including the beloved One Day in the Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Tree. His work has received widespread recognition, most notably winning the Minnesota Book Award for Big Papa and the Time Machine. His books frequently appear on prestigious lists such as the Banks Street College of Reading Best Books of the Year and the CCBC (Cooperative Children’s Book Center).
Further cementing his literary impact, Daniel has earned the Skipping Stones Award for Goodnight Little Man, an NCTE Notables Award, and boasts two Junior Library Guild selections. His book Song in the City was chosen as an NEA Read Across America selection and nominated for the Minnesota Star of the North Award, while Big Papa and the Time Machine was featured in the PBS virtual "Let’s Learn" program. He's also been nominated for the Cybils Award and several state awards across Iowa, Arizona, and Illinois.
Daniel holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Hamline University. He currently serves as an English Faculty member at Minnesota West Community and Technical College in Worthington, Minnesota, teaching Literature and English Composition. He lives in Worthington with his wife, Heather, and their six children.
To find out more about Daniel and his books, check out his website. https://www.danielbernstrom.com/
