Graphic Novels for Elementary Kids (Chicago Park District)
Graphic Novel Workshop at Holstein Park Day Camp (Middle Grades)
Date: July 15-16, 2025
Venue/City: Chicago
Audience: Grades 3-5
This two-day immersive workshop invited 3rd to 5th grade campers into the dynamic world of graphic novels, where visual storytelling meets creative writing. Led by our founder and children’s author Rebecca Wu, students explored the key elements that transform a story into a graphic novel—developing characters, plots, visuals, and cliffhangers with spunk, flair, and originality.
Campers began by learning the roles involved in producing a book—from illustrators to editors—and quickly embraced the spirit of collaboration. While some worked in teams (complete with hype squads!), others chose to tackle their books solo, carefully crafting every frame and speech bubble.
From zines to multi-page comic books, campers brought their ideas to life through drawing, writing, and shared storytelling. Along the way, they reflected on the power of visual language and how it can elevate and expand a story that expresses their unique creativity. The workshop emphasized that every storyteller’s voice matters—and how it’s told belongs entirely to them.
Highlights included:
Team-based creative roles: storyboarders, scribes, illustrators, and editors
Lessons on pacing, dialogue, and how to end with a perfect “To be continued…”
A final showcase of camper-created books (including one valued at $2 billion Robux!)
This unforgettable workshop blended fun, skill-building, and self-expression—leaving young storytellers empowered and eager to share their voices with the world.
If you want to bring a Young Authors program to your school, organization, or community, email us and we will be glad to work with you!