As formal grammar instruction has fallen out of fashion, many writers feel unsure of their grammar — or simply never learned the rules. In Session One, we will think about grammar as both “rules” and “tools,” explain the four basic sentence patterns, and address common punctuation foibles. In Session Two, we will review some commonly…

Join author Joanne Nelson as she walks you through the publication process as she lives it. Over seven months as her publishing company, Vine Leaves Press, prepares her book, My Neglected Gods, for publication, Joanne will talk about the process step by step. This month, Joanne wraps up the series with a conversation about how the…

It has sometimes been said that Character = Plot, that interesting characters on their own will drive the narrative of a story. We know that the best books make us feel deeply invested in the characters. That dull books leave you wondering, why should I care? So, how do you do it? How can you describe…

Due to a family emergency, this session has been cancelled.

DEBWE: WELCOMING OTHERS IN In the Ojibwe language “debwe” means “to tell the truth.” Writing impactful nonfiction begins with a commitment to truth-telling and having the courage and narrative skills to let others in, especially if the work is deeply personal. In this one-day writing intensive, participants who are intersted in writing creative nonfiction–memoir, biography,…

AFTER THE INITIAL DRAFT: REVISION AS POETRY PRACTICE Sometimes poems arrive as if sent from somewhere else, leaving poets to feel as though they’re lucky transcribers. Usually, our process includes revision. Revision is seen as many things — practical process, spiritual practice, a private interrogation, a community affair. In this workshop we will focus on…

Do you have a novel inside you waiting to be written? Is there a memoir you’ve felt called to create for years but have yet to complete a chapter or even a paragraph? Is there a poetry or short story collection deep in your heart that you have yet to manifest? Join us for a…

Do you know in your heart that you’re a writer but you’ve never pursued the dream? Or are you a seasoned writer who is struggling a bit, trying to rediscover your creative spark? Join us for two fun-filled days of indulging your desire to put words on paper. Participants will be given dynamic writing prompts…

All writing projects require research, but how much is necessary to prove to a reader that your story or argument is credible and trustworthy? Many writers don’t know where to start. They get bogged down in the details, which often stops them from finishing their project. Join author Lynda Drews as she talks about the…

We think our lives are interesting, but do readers? How do you make your true story resonate with an audience in 1,000 words or less? In this four-week workshop led by memoirist and personal essayist Nadine Kenney Johnstone, you will learn why it’s crucial for writers to write their truth and make readers care right…