The kids may be heading back to school this month, but Seattle children’s book writers and publishers can find plenty of fun things to do in September.

On Saturday, September 9, 11am to 12pm, the National Nordic Museum marks World KidLit Month by offering a free panel discussion “Bringing Nordic Children’s Literature to an English Readership.” Four publishing professionals cover the aspects that make Nordic children’s literature unique as well as the challenges and opportunities for bringing these stories to an English-speaking audience. Tickets for this event are free and can be reserved in advance at nordicmuseum.org. The museum is located at 2655 NW Market Street in Seattle. Walk-ins are welcome.

Each September World Kid Lit Month celebrates world literature and translation for children and young adults. At the museum, the panelists will be Laura Simeon, Young Readers’ Editor at Kirkus Reviews and former school librarian; Mia Spangenberg, who translates fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature from Finnish, Swedish, and German into English; Lotta Gavel Adams, Professor Emerita of Scandinavian Studies, University of Washington in Seattle, and Barbro Osher Chair Emerita of Swedish Studies; and Dr. Elizabeth DeNoma, the founder of DeNoma Literary Services. They will delve into the world of Nordic children’s literature including such popular characters as Pippi Longstocking and the Moomins. Expect discussion of the current publishing climate and how it impacts translation for children and young adults.

On Saturday, September 23, starting at 8am, SCBWI Western Washington presents a Zoom webinar with Holiday House editor Elizabeth Law. In “We Don’t Talk About Cash Flow (No, No),” Law demystifies parts of the publishing process that can particularly thwart both not-yet-agented writers and artists as well as those with more experience. It’s also designed to provide a few concrete tools to help with submitting and following up. Tickets are $15 for SCBWI Premium Members and $20 for Registered Users. Register for this virtual event at scwbi.org.

In a second virtual seminar that afternoon, Law and author author Lisa L. Owens also will discuss a variety of business topics, including the acquisitions process, the editor-author relationship, and their best advice for creating and sustaining a career as a children’s book creator. “Crafting a Kidlit Career: A Conversation with Elizabeth Law” takes place at 1pm on Saturday, September 23. Tickets are $15 for SCBWI Premium Members and $20 for Registered Users. Register at scwbi.org.

All times given are Pacific Time. Find out more about World KidLit Month at worldkidlit.org including tools for social media, reading lists, and more! SCBWI Western Washington is a regional chapter of the Society of Book Writers and Illustrators International. Learn more about their activities at scbwi.org/regions/wwa.