Writing Workshop

Saturday, December 12, 2026

Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School International Division

Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School International Division is pleased to invite your students to an ACAMIS Writing Workshop led by Maria van Lieshout, author and illustrator of Song of a Blackbird (Michael L. Printz Honor 2026; National Book Award longlist 2025; Teen Choice Book Award Finalist 2026).

Event Information

Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026

Time: 9am-5:30pm

Venue: Shanghai Soong Ching Ling School, 2 Yehui Road, Zhaoxiang, Qingpu District, Shanghai

Open to: Grade 6-12

Cost: 250 RMB

Over the day, students will turn a story from their own family history into a graphic novel panel or page.

Keynote and Q&A: Maria shares her creative journey behind Song of a Blackbird.

Writing about our ancestors: students develop a story from their family's past, such as a move to a new country, starting a business or achieving a big goal, guided by Maria's prompts. Imagined stories are welcome too.

Art workshop: how to design characters that convey emotion, with examples from Song of a Blackbird. Students then illustrate scenes from their own story.

Showcase and awards: students present their work, with Maria offering feedback, followed by an awards ceremony.

Lunch and all materials will be provided.

Places are limited. Please register via the QR on the attached poster.