“I learned that I can, and should, step out of my boundary and do more free writing. I particularly liked the idea of letting a character speak for him/herself, and the specific steps that can be taken to achieve that. The diversity of opinions, interests and styles was enriching. Reading how others use specific techniques made me more aware of how I write and how I can apply those techniques to my writing.”
Alba, September 2, 2014
“GOOD FUN…the most inspiring and amusing and knowledgeable teacher. I don’t know how she musters that special wonderful energy; it is a huge pleasure to be on the workshop.”
Karen, September 2, 2014
“I found it very helpful to spend time looking at what genre resonated with me as a novelist and why. I feel like I’m defiantly in the right place for my values and needs as a writer. I learned some good techniques and tools to start writing and get the creative process moving. I also enjoyed testing myself to write in different styles and am looking forward to experimenting with this more. There is so much value in writing something every day—even if it’s just 5 minutes of messy uninhibited rambling. I’m a writer so I’d better just write!”
Rebecca, September 2, 2014
“I understood where to look for concrete examples that can help at certain stages—and how to build credible characters as well as a consistent conflict. It made me realize I’m ready for it; I have the capacity to dive into the chaos.”
Elena, September 2, 2014
“It was very beneficial to me to be able to see that I’d actually achieved quite a lot already– and to meet people who were totally passionate about writing. I’m not sure I’ve ever met such a large group of passionate, articulate and interesting people.”
Susannah, June 7, 2013
“I can’t recommend this course enough to aspiring novel writers. It’s a wonderful mix of practical tips and tricks, hands-on writing and constructive feedback. It’s taken me to a place where I not only know I can write that novel but I’m actually doing it!
What did it feel like to get live feedback on my fiction writing? I was terrified by the whole idea. But the way it was done was extremely sensitive and well thought-out. The feedback I got was amazing and spurred me on to do even more writing that day. I feel helped by the feedback and energized by it; it’s helped me define where my writing goes next.”
Julia, April 25, 2013
“Although I was initially daunted by the idea of sharing my work with the class, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed listening to my own contribution. It was also wonderful to listen to everyone’s work; this was a very special experience because everyone was involved and engaged in the process.
I enjoyed the positive reinforcement and the experience of getting live feedback on my fiction wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be. I was also satisfied because my text was deliberately designed to mislead the reader, and the feedback from the group confirmed that I had achieved my goal.”
Ellie, April 25, 2013
“What was the highlight of the class? Discovering that the material reveals itself…. Writing talks back 🙂 It was great to meet everyone and spend time with other creative people interested in the same thing.”
Yuliya, April 25, 2013