KONNECTION | May 2025

 

Calabash Literary Festival (Jamaica) The Calabash International Literary Festival is a distinguished cultural event offering a unique blend of literature, music, and storytelling. Free and open to the public, it features readings, author interviews, and open-mic sessions, drawing an impressive lineup of both established and emerging literary voices from around the world. Dates: May 23-25, 2025 Location: Treasure Beach, Jamaica FESTIVAL DETAILS Calabash Literary Festival (2023) The BLK Book Lounge: A Literary Experience The BLK Book Lounge: A Literary Experience is taking place on May 31 from 3pm to 8pm at D’Or (10 Gatineau Dr., Thornhill, Ontario). "Expect a lounge-style atmosphere with a touch of opulence featuring book readings, a curated bookshop, special guest speakers, a book launch, appetizers & drinks, and meaningful connection. Dress to impress and come ready to celebrate Black literature in style." TICKETS Submitting Your Story Idea for Publication Are you thinking about submitting your middle grade or young adult story idea for publication? If you're a new writer or considering making a move from self-publishing to traditional publishing, understanding the process is key. We've put together a clear, step-by-step overview (from idea generation to publication) to help guide you. If you'd like a free PDF copy of our overview, please email us at konnection@kyapublishing.com. Writing About Social Issues for Youth When creating stories for middle grade and young adult audiences, exploring contemporary social issues can create relevant and engaging books and also encourage dialogue, empathy, and critical thinking. Here's a list of themes and challenges that affect young people, and can serve as powerful inspiration for your next manuscript: Mental Health and Well-Being: Mental health awareness, anxiety and depression, suicide prevention, substance use and addiction, body image and eating disorders. Economic and Housing Challenges: Economic disparity and poverty, affordable housing and homelessness, youth employment, and financial insecurity. Identity, Equity and Inclusion: Racism, anti-Blackness, and discrimination, Indigenous identity and reconciliation, LGBTQ2S+ inclusion and gender identity, cultural identity, diaspora and immigration, sexism and gender equity, disability, and accessibility. Social Pressures and Digital Life: Bullying and cyberbullying, social media and self-image, digital privacy, and online behavior. Community, Family and Belonging: Family dynamics, divorce, caregiving, foster care, friendship, loyalty, peer pressure, education inequity and access, youth activism, and civic engagement. Environment and the Future: Climate change and environmental justice, urban development and green spaces, sustainability, and youth-led solutions. If you'd like to chat about your potential story development, contact us at services@kyapublishing.com!  Re-introducing Author Kamilah Haywood A Toronto-based author and advocate, Kamilah Haywood (aka KWoodZ) is known for their powerful urban fiction that delves into the realities of inner-city life. Through their writing and activism, they amplify marginalized voices and speak to the struggles and triumphs of modern-day Toronto. Kamilah is deeply involved in community work and serves with several organizations, including: Elizabeth Fry Society Prison Transparency Project Rittenhouse: A New Vision Canadian Coalition for Children with Incarcerated Parents Grand Valley Institution for Women, facilitating the Find Your Voice Workshop (founder) supporting incarcerated women through literature W.A.R. Productions (founder), producing music videos to raise awareness about social issues For the People By the People and Get it Dun Inc., amplifying community concerns through music Visit website to learn more and order books by Kamilah Haywood. Submission Opportunity for Authors Canadian publisher Lorimer Kids is currently accepting children's and teen fiction proposals from experienced Canadian writers--contemporary stories that engage with real-world issues and inspire young readers to think critically. Visit the James Lorimer & Company Ltd., Publishers website for their submission guidelines. The U.S. Book Show in New York City A conference on publishing and the business of books, now in its fifth year, the U.S. Book Show "brings the publishing world together for a day of insightful conversations, expert panels, and invaluable networking. From the direct-to-reader revolution to AI, digital marketing, streaming, Hollywood, audiobooks, career growth, and more, the program tackles issues shaping the industry’s future." Taking place on June 3 in New York City, the keynote address will be presented by Joy Bivens. "Bivins, who has led the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York since 2021, will be in conversation with Randy Winston, creative director for fiction at the Black List." EVENT DETAILS Schomburg Centennial Festival "Join the Schomburg Center for Black Literature at 135th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem for the official Schomburg Centennial Festival on Saturday, June 14! It will combine elements of the Schomburg’s Literary Festival and its Black Comic Book Festival. Come for readings with your favorite authors and comic creators, cosplay, panel discussions, a marketplace, and more; stay for our block party—featuring musical performances from hip-hop legend Slick Rick and others." FESTIVAL DETAILS Are You Looking for a Copyeditor? Kya Publishing Inc. welcomes new clients for editing services. If you’re working on a creative project and require experienced support, we’d be happy to connect with you for an assessment. Manuscript editing (children's books, teen/adult fiction) Resume or bio editing (job applications, grant submissions) Contact us at editing@kyapublishing.com or visit our website for details. The Canadian Children's Book Centre AGM The Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 1-2:30pm EDT. "Join us for a year in review, learn about our current programming for 2025 and meet our incoming board members." Members and the public are welcome to attend: REGISTER HERE

KONNECTION | April 2025

 

KEVIN HERONJONES // Writer in Residence Kevin heronJones is Brampton’s first Writer in Residence. This exciting new initiative is co-presented by Brampton Arts Organization, Brampton Library, and the FOLD Foundation. Kevin will be in-residence at Gore Meadows Branch Library from February 24 to April 25, 2025. AUTHOR SUPPORT NETWORKS For Canadian authors, navigating the literary industry can be overwhelming without the right support. Thankfully, there are national and provincial organizations that exist to champion author rights, provide professional resources, and help fund creative growth. These networks help writers protect their work, build careers, and connect with a literary community. Here are a few organizations and how they assist authors: The Writers’ Union of Canada - advocates for the rights and interests of published authors, offers professional development, contract advice, and a collective voice in the industry Editors Canada - supports editors with training, certification, networking, and resources to maintain high standards in the profession Access Copyright - ensures creators and publishers are fairly compensated when their work is copied or used; manages licensing and royalty distribution Ontario Creates - funds and promotes the growth of Ontario’s creative industries through grants, industry research, and marketing support EDITORIAL FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY Teachers & Writers Magazine is currently accepting applications for their Editorial Fellowship. The fellowship is intended to provide students, recent graduates, and teaching artists with editorial experience, working closely with their editors and contributors to produce their free, online magazine dedicated to the art of teaching writing. The fellows will receive a stipend of $3,000, and there is potential to renew for a second year upon review. This is a remote position, and applicants across the country [U.S.A.] are welcome to apply. You can find more information about the fellowship and how to apply on their submittable page. Applications are open until April 30th. For questions about the Fellowship, contact Joshua Garcia, jgarcia@twc.org. via Center for Black Literature SUBMIT YOUR CONTEMPORARY STORY FOR KIDS/TEENS Canadian publisher Lorimer Kids is currently accepting children's and teen fiction proposals from experienced writers--contemporary stories that engage with real-world issues and inspire young readers to think critically. Visit Lorimer's website for full submission guidelines. 45 BOOKS ABOUT DANCEHALL MUSIC We've curated a list of 45 books on Jamaican dancehall music from the past 25 years. These titles document the culture’s history, explore its trends, and share insights on its values, creativity, and international impact. VIEW & DOWNLOAD BOOK LIST EDITING SUPPORT AVAILABLE Kya Publishing Inc. welcomes new clients for editing services. If you’re working on a creative project and looking for experienced support, we’d be happy to connect. Manuscript editing (children's books, teen/adult fiction) Resume or bio editing (updates for grant submissions) Contact us at editing@kyapublishing.com or visit our website for details. PARTICIPATE IN U OF T RESEARCH PROJECT If interested, please contact k.simms@mail.utoronto.ca or visit the project website for additional information.

KONNECTION | March 2025

BOOK REVIEW PLATFORMS // Young Adult & Middle Grade Literature Whether you're submitting a YA or MG book review on behalf of a friend or favourite author, or seeking one from an established platform or peer, reviews offer valuable insight and critique for your writing. They can also enhance your visibility, strengthen your credibility, and contribute to increased book sales. Here's a list of some influential book reviewers and platforms for youth literature: KIRKUS REVIEWS | Offering in-depth reviews on all genres; known for their honesty and often critical reviews. BIBLIOVIDEO | For young readers, librarians, teachers, parents, authors, illustrators, researchers, and those who want to learn more about great Canadian books. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL | Key resource for librarians and educators; recommendations are trusted for school and library collections. CANADIAN REVIEW OF MATERIALS | Published weekly with reviews from teachers, librarians, and professors. NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW | Highly regarded for thoughtful critiques and discussions on notable YA books, showcasing the latest trends and movements. GUARDIAN CHILDREN'S BOOKS | UK-based, with reviews from professional critics and young readers, offering unique insights into the YA genre. COMMON SENSE MEDIA | Reviews media with a focus on appropriateness for children and teens. CBC BOOKS | Recommendations, seasonal previews, and articles. YA BOOKS CENTRAL | Reviews from teens and adults; a popular platform for discovering new and upcoming YA releases. GOODREADS | A large community of book lovers, including reviewers who are influential within the platform. EPIC READS | From HarperCollins, a go-to source for YA book recommendations, offers a mix of professional reviews, author interviews, and community-driven content. NOVELIST | A subscription source for booklists and reviews, available in school libraries. CANLIT FOR LITTLE CANADIANS | Blog of reviews to help discover links to Canadian authors and publishers. If you'd like to share a book review platform with us, please email konnection@kyapublishing.com!  KEVIN HERONJONES // Writer in Residence Kevin heronJones is Brampton’s first Writer in Residence. This exciting new initiative is co-presented by Brampton Arts Organization, Brampton Library, and the FOLD Foundation. Kevin will be in-residence at Gore Meadows Branch Library from February 24 to April 25, 2025. ELEVATED WAVES PUBLISHING // New Titles Congratulations to Cleveland Author Jameel Davis for being recognized with an International Impact Book Award for Men's Health, for his book Completely Naked! Coming soon from Elevated Waves Publishing, Not All Hands Feed You from M.E. Robinson, and The Skeletons Within from Anne O'Kaye! WRITERS DAY // Conference on March 22 The 2025 Writers Day Conference is designed to inspire and educate writers of all levels. It offers a unique platform for networking with like-minded individuals and industry professionals, providing valuable opportunities to forge new connections and collaborations. Participants will gain exclusive insights into the writing world from seasoned experts and thought leaders to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their craft. For more information or to register, please contact oliverose29@yahoo.com or visit the event page. EDITING SERVICES // Support for Writers Kya Publishing Inc. is dedicated to elevating diverse voices through professional writing and editing services, including: Copyediting your article, manuscript, paper, or document Copyediting your children's book or novel Resume writing/updates Biography/profile writing Promotional content writing Learn more at kyapublishing.com/editing NATIONAL BLACK WRITERS CONFERENCE // Honoring Black YA & MG Literature The Center for Black Literature's National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium (#NBWC2025) returns Thursday, March 27 to Saturday, March 29, 2025 held in-person and virtually at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. "Come immerse yourself in the wonders of Young Adult and Middle Grade literature. These genres serve as energizing forces for cultivating and nurturing the critical reading and writing habits of a cross-generation, and helps to affirm issues of self-esteem, literacy, identity, and fosters awareness of the contributions to literature by Black writers." Registration is now open; for more information and symposium details, visit the Center for Black Literature website. REFLECTION & REASON BLOG // The Digital Diaspora "Black youth innovate and cultivate joy while using social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, as they express their cultural identities, explore new ideologies, and build community with one another through Direct Messages, engaging in commenting, and by subscribing and supporting the creativity of others. They are also becoming lucrative as the model involves financial support for creators, who are rewarded for the entertaining content they curate..." READ FULL POST SUBMISSION OPPORTUNITY // Canadian Young Adult & Middle Grade Manuscripts Canadian Publisher Lorimer Kids is currently open for children's and teen fiction proposals from experienced writers. Visit their website for complete details and submission guidelines, and join the growing list of diverse authors who are guiding and entertaining youth through fiction! RESEARCH // University of Toronto Project To participate, please contact k.simms@mail.utoronto.ca or visit the project website. DANCEHALL REBEL // A Toronto Teen Story In the novel Dancehall Rebel (Lorimer Kids, 2024) a Caribbean-Canadian teen with big dreams and a love for reggae music navigates family expectations and cultural traditions.

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