Posted on: Sunday, December 21, 2003

Lit Beat

Advertiser Staff

SIGNINGS/READINGS

Tokie ching, author of "A Hawai'i Japanese New Year with Yuki-chan," noon Saturday, Native Books/Na Mea Hawai'i, Ward Warehouse. Also, noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 28, Waldenbooks, Pearlridge; 12:30 p.m. Dec. 29, Bestsellers, downtown.

JOSS, photographer Joss Descoteaux, photographer for "Hawai'i Outrigger Paddling," 3 p.m. Dec. 27, Barnes & Noble, Kahala Mall.

FOR WRITERS

Professional critiques of children's book illustrations are being offered by the Hawai'i chapter of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Entries will be critiqued by local professionals in the field; the best will be selected for critique by Nina Laden, illustrator and featured speaker at the March 6 winter conference of the society. Work must be suitable for picture-book publishing: in print, photo or tearsheet form (not original or slides); 15 images maximum or a single book dummy. Artwork will not be returned. Fee: $30. Include separate, stamped, self-addressed envelope. Send to: SCBWI Portfolio Critique, 2084 Young St., Suite E, Honolulu, HI 96826. Deadline: Feb. 14. Information: contactcowing@aloha.net; 373-9522.

Beachhouse Publishing seeks poetry for a children's book with Hawaiian themes. Send submissions to beachhousepub@hawaii.rr.com or P.O. Box 2926, 'Ewa Beach, HI 96706. Deadline: Jan. 2.

Star Poets 2004 is accepting submissions from students in grades 3-12 for cash prizes during National Poetry Month (April). Entry forms available at Starbucks stores on O'ahu, Maui and the Big Island, and at www.starbuckshawaii.com. Entry deadline: Jan. 15.

Send items for Lit Beat to Sandra Vahine, Island Life, The Advertiser, P.O. Box. 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802. Or fax: 525-8055. Or e-mail islandlife@honoluluadvertiser.com.