Writers & Illustrators of the Future Workshop Week
2026 – Day 2

How to Start a Story (and Not with Toast): Writer Workshop Highlights

Contributed by Leah Ning

The writer winners kicked off their first workshop day with a tour of the Author Services building, including the banners in the windows for their volume, the library, the stage—where they’ll see a live radio play later in the week—and the library of L. Ron Hubbard’s works.

Jody Lynn Nye and Tim Powers then took the stage to begin imparting their wisdom. They started off by pairing the winners up in advance of their 24-hour stories, and then dove straight into speaking about the advice they can take from L. Ron Hubbard’s essays on writing. This included balancing the research rabbit hole with trusting your subconscious, and tools for focusing and honing in on their upcoming stories. On the flip side of the research rabbit hole, they also talked about how to avoid, as Jody put it, “cold, indigestible lumps of exposition.”

Before a short break, the writers received their random objects to include in their 24-hour stories, and spent some time talking with each other about how they could incorporate their objects. Tim and Jody then spoke about plot, including how to write an opening—and how not to (hint: do not wake up and eat toast), how to use conflict, and the components of a satisfying ending.

After lunch, they jumped straight back in by talking about how to craft a great first line that hooks readers without overwhelming them. They also talked about creating characters, and the characters’ responsibilities and worths within the confines of the story. Finally, before the winners went to their tux and dress fittings, they heard about the mechanics of creating magic systems. Their last activity of the day before dinner was to be sent out to Hollywood Boulevard to talk to a stranger in further preparation for their 24-hour stories. Stay tuned for day two of the workshop!

Where the Week Begins: Illustrators Meet and Prepare for What’s Ahead

After a busy period of travel, the Illustrators of the Future Volume 42 winners from around the world arrived in Los Angeles and came together for the first time to begin their workshop week. Contest Director Joni Labaqui welcomed each illustrator at the hotel, while teams from Author Services and Galaxy Press ensured everyone arrived smoothly and got settled in.

The evening’s official activities began with a meet and greet, where the illustrators were introduced to key staff and organizers, including John Goodwin, President of Author Services, and Coordinating Judge and workshop leader Echo Chernik. John opened with words of encouragement, emphasizing the significance of the artists’ achievement and the opportunities ahead—both during the workshop and in their future careers. He also highlighted the legacy of the Contest and the exposure winners will receive, including interviews on the Writers and Illustrators of the Future Podcast.

Following introductions, each illustrator had the opportunity to introduce themselves, helping to break the ice and begin forming connections. Echo Chernik concluded the evening with a brief overview of the week ahead.

Tomorrow, Echo will begin with a deep dive into the business side of illustration—covering essential skills rarely taught in art school.