Winter 2007 Workshops at Writers & Books

Fiction

Year-Long Novel Critique Workshop

• WA7-F01A
• 22 Saturdays, 10 a.m –12:30 p.m
• January 13 though December (second and fourth Saturdays of each month, except November, which will be second and fifth)
• $620 W&B members / $650 general public / Limit 8
• Instructor: Nick DiChario

Writing a novel is hard work. This course embraces the everyday realities of it. Students will meet twice a month for the year, bringing 10 pages per session of their novels-in-progress to read aloud in class. The instructor will guide group critique sessions focused on various elements of the novel, such as character development, dialogue, plot, pacing, style, and the “deeper meanings,” as directly related to student work. Class discussions will motivate progress, and help students to think critically, and stay on course throughout the year. By the end of the workshop, students should see significant portions of their novels completed and will have gained the confidence to finish.
Note: This class has filled early, through pre-registration of previous participants. However, we are making a waiting list to see if we can start a second section. Please contact the front desk at 473-2590 x107.

How to register

Register online

Advanced Fiction

• WA7-F02
• 6 Wednesdays, 7–9 p.m.
• January 17 through February 21
• $119 W&B members / $125 general public
• Instructor: Martin Naparsteck

This workshop is designed to help experienced writing students take their fiction to the next level. The instructor will focus on integrating character and plot, improving narration and dialogue, developing voice and theme, and generally polishing manuscripts for publication. Students will have the opportunity to critique and be critiqued in a supportive atmosphere. Participants are expected to have previous workshop experience or some years of practice at writing fiction.

How to register

Register online

Writing the "Young Adult" Novel

• WY7-F03
• 5 Thursdays, 6:30–8:30
• March 1 through March 29
• $99 W&B members / $95 general public /Limit 12
• Instructor: Jonathan Rich

Do you think you are an expert on the angst of adolescence? Well, here is your chance to put your knowledge to good use. We will survey great works of YA Fiction, such as The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Outsiders, tolearn where YA literature came from and where it is going. You will share what you find compelling about your favorite YA novels. Most importantly, you will craft a YA short story of your own. You can plumb the emotional depths and nuances you see going on in teen life through a vivid character. You can use your witty pen to skewer the ridiculous behavior of adults and other teens who make life miserable for teens. You might go on to win the Printz Award for YA! For ages: 16 through Adult

How to register

Register online

Beginning Story Writing

• WA7-F04
• 6 Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m.
• March 6 through April 10
• $100 W&B members / $110 general public
• Instructor: Steven Huff

You’ve always wanted to write fiction, but have not known where to begin. This class will examine the basic principles and techniques of fiction: Point-of-view, dialogue, plotting, and character development. Learn to dig into your own cache of memories and experiences for story material. Train your ear for authentic dialogue, and learn essential methods of character development.

How to register

Register online

Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing Workshop

• WA7-F05
• 8 Wednesdays, 7–9 p.m.
• January 17 through March 7
• $149 W&B members / $159 general public / Limit 12
• Instructor: Nancy Kress

Science fiction and fantasy stories, in bookstores and on the big screen, are more popular than ever. Whether you are interested in writing short stories or novels, this workshop will guide you through the challenges of writing tales of science fiction (that extrapolate upon existing scientific theory) and fantasy stories (that are a true departure from reality). Learn all about the genres and sub genres that make up this thriving literature, as well as how to market your work to appropriate publishers. Participants are expected to have at least a first draft of a short story or one chapter of a novel to share with the group for constructive in-class critique sessions.

How to register

Register online

Storyboarding for Fiction Writers

• WA7-F06
• Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
• March 24
• $37 W&B members / $40 general public / Limit 12
• Instructor: Len Messineo

Storyboarding is a way of visualizing and sequencing the scenic aspects of a story in the most compressed way to meet the needs of that story and the interests of the audience. It can be invaluable in constructing a work or critiquing a finished draft. The instructor will explore various ways to create a storyboard on paper or software, examine the ways to ensure that a story has a well-plotted arc, thematic coherence, clear through-lines, and adequate character development.

How to register

Register online

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