THE NOVELIST'S TOOLBOX
(Beginning, Intermediate)
This six-week course focuses on alternative approaches to the writing process with a distinct emphasis on craft. Each week will have a themed lesson plan and choice of exercises to be critiqued by the instructors. There will also be three hour-long chats for students to interact, ask questions, and share ideas. You will not be asked to comment on other students’ work. At the end of the course you will receive two in-depth critiques of your first ten pages, working synopsis, and query letter.
LEARNING THE LAYERS OF REVISION
(Intermediate, Advanced)
This six-week course aims to demystify revision by breaking it down into a three-layer process. Each week will cover a layer of revision and offer several methods to approaching things such as character consistency, maintaining plot and subplot threads, strengthening voice, and editing dialogue (to name a few). Some exercises may be tailored to meet individual needs. Three hour-long chats and an in-depth critique of each writer's first ten pages, working synopsis, and query letter are included.
NEW! TEENS-ONLY WORKSHOP
(All teens between the ages of 12-18)
Adapted from our popular Toolbox course, this intensive, week-long class consists of daily e-mails, each one focusing on a facet of creative writing. Extensive exercises and resources will be provided. The class culminates with a two-hour long chat where teens can ask us any and all of their questions about writing, editing, and publishing. Although we will not be commenting directly on student work, manuscript evaluations can be purchased at a rate of $25 per each ten pages. E-mail the authors to inquire about the availability of this feature.
NEW! MARKETING ON EVERY BUDGET
(Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
It’s no secret that today’s authors are largely responsible for their own promotional efforts. While there are many books, blogs, and articles devoted to author-driven marketing, few tackle the larger questions of “How much should I spend?” and “What should I spend it on?” In this six-week online course, we will discuss which PR efforts are necessary to insuring an author's success, how to capitalize on resources you already have at your disposal, and which marketing endeavors offer the biggest return on your personal investment. Not only will you receive sample marketing plan for every budget, you'll walk away with a plan specific to your needs.