Children’s Book Concept Developer

General Information

Job Type:

Volunteer

Team:

Publications Team

Contract type:

Volunteer

Location:

Remote

EAP Level:

Increasing

Description

We are seeking a volunteer to fill the role of Children’s Book Concept Developer. The volunteer will be responsible for brainstorming, outlining, and storyboarding engaging children’s book concepts inspired by the life of Gautama Buddha and other great sages and yogis. This is an exciting opportunity to translate Buddhist teachings and wisdom into accessible and entertaining narratives for a young audience. The volunteer will have creative freedom to explore various Buddhist schools and traditions, drawing upon a rich tapestry of stories and teachings. The volunteer can develop their concept in any language.

Responsibilities

Research & Concept Generation: Explore various Buddhist sutras (from any school of Buddhism) to identify themes, characters, and narratives suitable for children’s literature. A prime example for inspiration is the Jataka Tales, which recount the previous births of Gautama Buddha, the historical Buddha.
Storyline Development: Create original and captivating storylines that convey positive messages, ethical values, and relatable experiences for children aged 3-8 (or a target age group of your choosing).
Character Development: Envision engaging characters that resonate with young readers.
Storyboarding: Develop visual storyboards (can be simple sketches or detailed descriptions) to outline the flow of the narrative, key scenes, and potential illustrations.
Theme Integration: Thoughtfully integrate Buddhist principles and wisdom in an age-appropriate and accessible manner, without being didactic or overly complex.
Language Flexibility: Concepts can be developed in any language the volunteer is proficient in.

Skills & Qualifications

Strong creative writing and storytelling skills; imagination and a strong sense of visual storytelling.
Familiarity with or a genuine interest in Buddhist philosophy, teachings, and sutras (e.g., Jataka Tales, Dhammapada, Lotus Sutra, etc.).
Ability to translate complex ideas into simple, relatable concepts for children.
Prior experience in children's literature, education, or visual arts is a plus, but not required.
Good organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines; diligence; able to work through obstacles and challenges.
Excellent written/verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and collaborate with the review team, staff members and/or volunteers to fully support the project.
Flexibility and patience to adapt to changing requirements.
Openness to learn new technical skills and procedures; willingness to follow given standards, guidelines.
Technical: Ability to use Google Workspace, Drive, Docs (text editing/formatting functions) and Slack.

Why This Role Is Important

This role directly supports Rinpoché’s vision to create the Golden Age of peace and harmony on earth through the Kalachakra Tantra. Your work helps Dzokden to inspire transformative experiences that cultivate deep inner realization through a strong compassionate and devoted heart. The virtue generated through your Dharma service is dedicated to the accumulation of merit which is essential for the path to enlightenment. You have the opportunity to practice the path through a mundane, samsaric role and see how it is possible to transform ordinary work into extraordinary opportunities. This will help you learn to walk the real tantric path.