Back to the Basics: Writing Essentials
Thinking about becoming a writer? If you鈥檙e even considering buying a pen (or opening
a blank doc), this workshop with Teri Bayus is for you. The Writer鈥檚 Toolbox is your
essential starter kit for launching a writing journey with confidence. Perfect for
those just starting out, this session will cover: the must-have tools to support your
writing life; how to build a writing routine that actually sticks; common pitfalls
(and how to avoid them), insider tips on staying motivated and finishing what you
start. Led by a seasoned mentor who has guided numerous authors from first draft to
published book, this workshop offers both inspiration and practical guidance. Whether
you鈥檙e dreaming of novels, memoirs, or freelance work鈥攖his is where you begin.
Without a compelling theme, what鈥檚 the point? Whether you鈥檙e in the ideation phase,
drafting, editing, or even marketing, leverage your 鈥減oint鈥� by crafting a thematic
statement readers can鈥檛 help but resonate with. Join author and writing coach Sara
Roahen as she shares the importance of theme; for beginners and those wanting to learn
more about this crucial element.
In this session, international award-winning and bestselling author of more than thirty
traditionally published novels, Wendelin Van Draanen, will share writing insights
and tips that will include: character development, writing compelling dialog, protagonist
vs. antagonist, utilizing overt and hidden structures to frame your story, plotting
strategies, and the bindingvalue of theme. Suitable for writers of all genres and
age ranges.
Do you struggle to finish your story or get stuck in the middle? Getting down the
bones or architecture of plot is one of the most important parts of writing a compelling
story. Whether you consider yourself a 鈥減antser鈥� or a 鈥減lotter鈥� this class with Jordan
Rosenfeld will demystify multiple types of plot structures, help you identify the
key markers and turning points of character transformation, and break down your plot
at the scene level.
How many words should a typical novel be? What鈥檚 the difference between middle grade
and young adult? Do you need a developmental edit, a critique, or a copy edit? How
much should you expect to you pay for editing鈥攁nd at what stage should you get a professional
edit? Genres, word counts, types of editing鈥攄oes it seem like everyone knows this
stuff but YOU? When you鈥檙e a beginning writer, it can be tricky to keep it straight.
Join Dayna Bennett as she shares the skills she uses on a daily basis as a writer,
editor, and educator and reviews the nuts and bolts including genres, word counts,
types of editing, and more.