For the past few months I’ve been on the lookout for conferences or seminars focused on researching and writing biographies or other nonfiction. And so far, it’s been slow going.

A handful of folks have suggested one of the Highlights Foundation‘s Founders’ Workshops, such as this one, and while I’m glad to have that option, I’d much rather have a range of choices.

For teachers, the JFK library has a conference each spring that sounds appealing. Rather than have you crane your neck to read this sideways and upside-down PDF, I’ll share the description of their most recent one:

Writers have played a vital role in the life of our country. They have celebrated the richness and diversity of the land and its people, and fashioned the stories and myths that helped define and redefine what it means to be an American. Writers have stirred the conscience of the nation concerning injustice and penned verses sung by those who marched for freedom at home and abroad. They have made people laugh, weep, think, and wonder about the times in which they are living and about times past.

This conference examines how biographies of writers can be used to enhance the teaching of history and language arts. Spend the day with outstanding authors of nonfiction for young readers, attend workshops led by classroom teachers and museum educators, and take away a wealth of great ideas and resources to enrich your curriculum.

I’m not even necessarily looking for conferences, workshops or seminars focusing on children’s writing, so long as I’d come home invigorated and toting sharper skills for my nonfiction and biography projects. A reasonable price and manageable schedule for someone with a salaried job and two young children would be nice, too.

I’ve tried to find something close to home, at UT Austin or St. Ed’s, but no luck. Heck, I’d even go to College Station.

Any ideas?