"Cat in a Shell Studio: My CCBF Journey"

Reporter: I had the honor to participate in the CCBF China Shanghai International Children's Book Fair from November 17th to 19th last week. This annual event is full of vitality and creativity! The whole trip was fulfilling and enjoyable. In addition, I had in-depth exchanges and learning with many industry masters, editors, and colleagues. I gained a lot!

On Friday morning, I stepped into the exhibition hall in the early morning sunshine, full of expectations. First, according to the old rules, I visited more than 20 leading publishing giants in the industry, such as "21st Century Publishing House", "Love Tree", "Popular Picture Book House", "Relay Publishing House", etc. I also greeted the editors and friends, and most importantly, I asked them to look at the inspiration and conception of the several sets of picture books I created recently, whether there were any problems in the script, and whether the composition was appropriate.

In addition, I happened to meet the industry's "big sister"! Gao Yuan, a teacher from "21st Century Publishing House", whose advice was as direct as always, and kindly pointed out the essential problems I encountered in my creation. I hope to have the opportunity to consult this mentor more often!

The entire exhibition hall felt like a big stage, with major publishers, masters, and editors in the picture book industry "showing their talents" and various activities "flourishing"! On the way to attend some master lectures, I met Qin Nan, the founder of Pineapple Circle. His "rational and straightforward" explanation and analysis, as well as his suggestions for my picture book, really benefited me a lot, and also gave me another dimension of understanding of my personal creative ideas and preferences.

In addition to visiting publishing houses, I was fortunate to attend several master lectures on the picture book industry, development, and trends hosted by industry leaders. Through these lectures, I gained a deeper understanding of the latest developments in the picture book field and saw more than a hundred creative picture book works.

To sum up, knock on the blackboard! What I have learned and gained in the past two days. Not only have I met many excellent colleagues, but I have also deeply appreciated the value and direction of the deep accumulation of the picture book and commercial illustration industry. I look forward to communicating and learning with more editors in the future. I hope that in 2024 I will have the opportunity to promote my works to more parents and children and complete a "small goal" after the transformation.

This CCBF trip has played a particularly positive role in promoting my creation and career development and has guided me to do periodic reflection and review. I would like to thank every editor for their guidance, and my peers and industry leaders for their sharing and inspiration. With the exchanges with teachers and peers, we can be full of confidence to create more surprising picture books in the future and bring more wonderful reading time to children.

Dear teachers and friends, see you at the next event!