Gear up to meet your writing goals for the new year. Winter class schedules are out and registration is open for writing classes offered January through April in Naples. Fla. This year I'm offering workshops and classes at THREE venues--The Renaissance Academy, Adult and Community Education (ACE), and at the Jewish Federation of Collier County through the Women's Cultural Alliance. Please note, there are NO CLASSES for a week March at ACE due to Spring Break. Remember, class cost is set by the venue and based on the number of class meetings:

Guided Revision/Collaborative Critique—5 weeks
Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. | January 9, 23, 30, February 6, 13 (No class January 16 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Making time to improve your writing is important. This collaborative workshop allows writers to receive feedback and guidance on their works-in-progress--poems, short stories, memoir, novels, or articles. Learn as we discuss what works and what needs reworking. Time and length limit to excerpts are dependent on group size. Click for details. 


Writing Short Stories—6 weeks    
​Wednesday, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | January 11, 18, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
No time to write a book? Write a short story! Learn from published examples while crafting short stories. Explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length, structure, and genre details are covered. Click for details. 


Writing, Memoir, Personal Experience, and Family Stories—6 weeks
Thursdays, TIME CORRECTION--3:30-5:30 p.m. | Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Have you led an exciting life? Have a rich genealogy? Enjoy sharing past experiences? This class will help you navigate through the islands of your memory as you learn to select and develop key events from your past, focus on the people and drama, and incorporate description for reader engagement. Click for details. 


Writing Short Stories—4 weeks
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.-noon | February 2, 9, 16, 23
Renaissance Academy (FGCU Naples Center, 5th Ave S & 10 Street)
Do you enjoy reading short stories? Would you like to write fiction but do not have time to devote to a novel? Write a short story! In this class, designed for beginners or anyone wishing to explore short stories, participants will learn from published examples while applying short fiction techniques to their own writing. We will explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length and structure, will be covered. Click for egistration details: NC9148  


A Novel Experience—4 weeks
Mondays 1:30-3:30 p.m.  | February 6, 13, 20, 27 
Renaissance Academy (FGCU Naples Center, 5th Ave S & 10 Street)
Have you always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin? Then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages in the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. Click for registration details:  NC9151  

Guided Revision/Collaborative Critique (REPEAT)—6 weeks
Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. | February 27, March 6, 20, 27, April 3, 10 (No class March 13 for Spring Break)
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Making time to improve your writing is important. This collaborative workshop allows writers to receive feedback and guidance on their works-in-progress--poems, short stories, memoir, novels, or articles. Learn as we discuss what works and what needs reworking. Time and length limit to excerpts are dependent on group size. Click for details.


Story Elements: Character, Plot, POV--3 weeks
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | March 1, 8, 22 (No class March 15 for Spring Break)
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Get started on your story with these important elements. Through writing exercises learn to engage readers by crafting 3-dimensional characters then creating an exciting plot with a realistic point-of-view. We’ll share in-class writing to learn from different story options. This short course is perfect for all levels of writers. Click for details. 


Story Elements: Dialogue, Scene, Theme--3 weeks
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | March 22, 29, April 5
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Focus on specific story elements in this short course perfect for all writing levels. Engage readers using dialogue, action, and setting to establish strong scenes and then deepen the story by considering story theme. We’ll explore options for each writing element and share in-class writing to learn from each other. Click for details. 


Focus on Your Book Project--6 weeks
Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. | March 2, 9, 23, 30, April 6, 13 (No class March 16 for Spring Break)
ACE Program (Barron Collier H.S., Cougar Drive & Airport-Pulling—north of Pine Ridge)
Have you thought of writing a book? Discover the process of drafting both fiction and nonfiction books from planning and layout, chaptering and organizing, to the importance of different writing elements. Students will have time during each session to share excerpts of their works-in-progress for feedback. All writing levels encouraged. Click for details.


Writing Craft: Become a Better Writer — 3 weeks
Thursdays – 10 a.m. – noon  3 weeks --DATE CORRECTION-- (March 9, 16, 23)
Renaissance Academy Naples Center (5th Ave S. & 10 St, Downtown/South Naples)
Participants may register for the entire series (NC9159) or for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of craft workshops and in-class writing exercises. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. All writing levels are welcome. Click for registration details: NC9159 (series) 

Writing Craft: Character Development —single session 
Thursday, --DATE CORRECTION-- March 9 – 10 a.m. – noon
Renaissance Academy Naples Center (5th Ave S. & 10 St, Downtown/South Naples)
Enrollment is limited. Having trouble creating characters that the reader believes could be real? In this class, we will focus on how to turn cardboard characters into well-rounded personalities that will engage readers. Participants will also learn how to incorporate these essential parts into a story or novel. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvement. All writing levels are welcome. Click for egistration details: NC9160 


Writing Craft: Plot—single session 
Thursday, --DATE CORRECTION-- March 16 – 10–noon
Renaissance Academy Naples Center (5th Ave S. & 10 St, Downtown/South Naples)
Enrollment is limited. In this class, we will complete several fun in-class activities to demonstrate how to add intriguing plot twists and turns to a story or novel. We will discuss story arc and pacing plus the essential details for plotting: character motivation/desire, action, and temporary resolutions. Time is allotted to share in-class writing for feedback and discussion. All writing levels welcome. Click for registration details: NC9161 

 
Writing Craft: Dialogue—single session 
Thursday, --DATE CORRECTION-- March 23 – 10–noon
Renaissance Academy Naples Center (5th Ave S. & 10 St, Downtown/South Naples)
Enrollment is limited. In this class, we will focus on how to properly punctuate and format dialogue, use it to craft scenes that show rather than tell, and provide story and character background. Balancing dialogue with narrative and incorporating actions and thoughts while maintaining viewpoint will also be covered. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvements. All writing levels are welcome. Click for registration details: NC9162 


A Novel Experience (REPEAT)—4 weeks
Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | March 6, 13, 20, 27
Renaissance Academy (FGCU Naples Center, 5th Ave S & 10 Street)
Have you always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin? Then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages in the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. Click for registration details:  NC9151 

New classes begin through the ACE program in Naples, Fla. the week of April 18, 2016. I'm teaching 3 writing classes. Stay tuned for summer offerings (I just turned in an exciting variety of classes)!

GENERAL CREATIVE WRITING
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24
Love to tell stories?  Then this class is for you!  Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts.  Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory details to show scenes.  Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Click to register

GUIDED REVISION
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25
Making time to improve your writing is important.  This workshop allows writers to receive feedback and guidance on their works-in-progresss--poems, short stories, memoir, novels, or articles.  Learn as we discuss what works and what needs reworking.  Time and length limit to excerpts are dependent on group size. Click to register

ARE YOU READY TO SELF-PUBLISH?
Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26
Have you thought about self-publishing but don't know where to begin?  In this class we'll explore the options to discover the best route for your needs and project.  Learn about all the steps involved and the decisions you'll need to make to wear the many hats of self-publisher. Click to register.

I'm offering classes at several locations in Naples. Note the location provided after the day/time. All require advance registration, so follow the "click to register" for cost and additional details. 

WRITING SHORT STORIES
Mondays, 10 a.m.-noon at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
Feb. 29, March 7, 14, 21
Do you enjoy reading short stories? Would you like to write fiction but do not have time to devote to a novel? Write a short story! In this class, designed for beginners or anyone wishing to explore short stories, participants will learn from published examples while applying short fiction techniques to their own writing. We will explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length and structure, will be covered. Click to register

GENERAL CREATIVE WRITING
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
March 1, 8, 22, 29  April  5, 12 (No class on March 15 for Spring Break)
Love to tell stories?  Then this class is for you!  Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts.  Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory details to show scenes.  Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Click to register

REVISION DECISIONS
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
March 1, 8, 22, 29  April  5, 12 (No class on March 15 for Spring Break)
The real work of writing happens during the revision stage in the writing process.  Learn different techniques to rethink pacing and development of your work-in-progress.  Particpants work with their own manuscripts to complete in-class revision exercises and then share excerpts.  Bring a short 2-page writing sample to the first class. Click to register

WRITING SHORT STORIES
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
March 2, 9, 23, 30 April 6, 13 (No class on March 16 due to Spring Break)
No time to write a book?  Write a short story!  Learn from published examples while crafting short stories.  Explore conflict, charactization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot.  Tips on using viewpoint and sensory details to engage readers, as well as story length, structure, and genre details are covered. Click to register

WRITING CRAFT SERIES 
Thursdays, 1:30-3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
March 3, 10, 17
Participants may register for the entire series (NC7144) or for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of workshops and in-class writing exercises. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. Click to register

Writing Craft: Character Development (1 week) 
Thursday, March 3: 1:30–3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
Having trouble creating characters that the reader believes could be a real person? In this craft class, we will focus on how to turn cardboard characters into well-rounded personalities that will engage readers. Participants will also learn how to incorporate the essential parts into the story or novel. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvement.

Writing Craft: Plot (1 week) 
Thursday, March 10: 1:30–3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
In this craft class, we will complete several fun in-class activities to demonstrate how to add intriguing plot twists and turns to a story or novel. We will discuss story arc and pacing plus the essential details for plotting: character motivation/desire, action, and temporary resolutions. Time is allotted to share in-class writing for feedback and discussion. All writing levels welcome.

Writing Craft: Dialogue (1 week) 
Wednesday, March 17: 1:30-3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
In this craft class, we will focus on how to properly punctuate and format dialogue, use it to craft scenes that show rather than tell, and use it to provide story and character background. Balancing dialogue with narrative, incorporating actions and thoughts while maintaining viewpoint will be covered. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvements. All writing levels welcome. 

MARKETING FOR WRITERS 
Thursdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
March 24, 31, April 7, 14
Have you finished your manuscript? Hope to pitch your idea to editors? Now you're ready to embark on a new writer's journey – overcoming all the hurdles of getting published. In this course, we will explore how to find and select markets and then pitch manuscripts to editors. We'll work on crafting strong submission letters, learn the difference between proposals and query letters, publishing terms, and the details of basic contracts.
Click to register

A NOVEL EXPERIENCE: Start Writing Your Book
Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
March 28, April 
If you have always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin, then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages of the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels are welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. Click to register 

GENERAL CREATIVE WRITING
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24
Love to tell stories?  Then this class is for you!  Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts.  Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory details to show scenes.  Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Click to register

GUIDED REVISION
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25
Making time to improve your writing is important.  This workshop allows writers to receive feedback and guidance on their works-in-progresss--poems, short stories, memoir, novels, or articles.  Learn as we discuss what works and what needs reworking.  Time and length limit to excerpts are dependent on group size. Click to register

ARE YOU READY TO SELF-PUBLISH?
Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Barron Collier High School
April 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26
Have you thought about self-publishing but don't know where to begin?  In this class we'll explore the options to discover the best route for your needs and project.  Learn about all the steps involved and the decisions you'll need to make to wear the many hats of self-publisher. Click to register.

Upcoming Classes scheduled in Naples, Fla. beginning January 12 through April 18
A NOVEL EXPERIENCE
Mondays, 1:30-3:30 at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22     Click to register
OR Mondays 1:30-3:30
March 28, April 4, 11, 18  Click to register
Have you always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin? Then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages in the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. 

WRITING SHORT STORIES
Mondays, 10 a.m.-noon at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
Feb. 29, March 7, 14, 21
Do you enjoy reading short stories? Would you like to write fiction but do not have time to devote to a novel? Write a short story! In this class, designed for beginners or anyone wishing to explore short stories, participants will learn from published examples while applying short fiction techniques to their own writing. We will explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length and structure, will be covered. Click to register

WRITING CRAFT SERIES 
Thursdays, 1:30-3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
March 3, 10, 17
Participants may register for the entire series (NC7144) or for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of workshops and in-class writing exercises. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. Click to register

Writing Craft: Character Development (1 week) 
Thursday, March 3: 1:30–3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
Having trouble creating characters that the reader believes could be a real person? In this craft class, we will focus on how to turn cardboard characters into well-rounded personalities that will engage readers. Participants will also learn how to incorporate the essential parts into the story or novel. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvement.

Writing Craft: Plot (1 week) 
Thursday, March 10: 1:30–3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
In this craft class, we will complete several fun in-class activities to demonstrate how to add intriguing plot twists and turns to a story or novel. We will discuss story arc and pacing plus the essential details for plotting: character motivation/desire, action, and temporary resolutions. Time is allotted to share in-class writing for feedback and discussion. All writing levels welcome.

Writing Craft: Dialogue (1 week) 
Wednesday, March 17: 1:30-3:00 p.m. at Renaissance Academy Naples Center
In this craft class, we will focus on how to properly punctuate and format dialogue, use it to craft scenes that show rather than tell, and use it to provide story and character background. Balancing dialogue with narrative, incorporating actions and thoughts while maintaining viewpoint will be covered. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvements. All writing levels welcome. 

MARKETING FOR WRITERS 
Thursdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Renaissance Academy
March 24, 31, April 7, 14
Have you finished your manuscript? Hope to pitch your idea to editors? Now you're ready to embark on a new writer's journey – overcoming all the hurdles of getting published. In this course, we will explore how to find and select markets and then pitch manuscripts to editors. We'll work on crafting strong submission letters, learn the difference between proposals and query letters, publishing terms, and the http://bit.ly/RA-WrtgCraft-M16details of basic contracts.
Click to register

FOCUS ON YOUR BOOK PROJECT
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier HS
Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16
Have you thought of writing a book? Discover the process of drafting both fiction and nonfiction books from planning and layout, chaptering and organizing, to the importance of different writing elements. Students will have time during each session to
share excerpts of their works-in-progress for feedback. All writing levels encouraged.
Register online 

GENERAL CREATIVE WRITING
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Barron Collier HS
Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16
Love to tell stories? Then this class if for you! Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts. Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory detail to show scenes. Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Register online 

MEMOIR & PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Barron Collier HS
Jan. 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 17
Have you led an exciting life? Have a rich genealogy? Enjoy sharing past experiences? This class will help you navigate through the islands of your memory as you learn to select and develop key events from your past, focus on the people and drama, and incorporate description for reader engagement. Register online 

Registration is now open for writing workshops offered at Renaissance Academy, Naples Center (1010 Fifth Ave S--corner of Fifth Ave & 10th Street S). Click for online registration.

With a Writer's Eye
Mondays: 10–11:30 a.m. October 12, 19, 26, November 2
Improve your writing by learning to analyze successful stories. How do the authors pull together story elements (character, plot, dialogue, and scene) to engage readers? We will dissect and discuss a variety of stories plus TV programs and movies with a writer’s eye, then apply what we have learned to our own writing. A perfect class for beginning writers or those interested in discussing stories and a great refresher for intermediate and advance writers.
NC7142 Cost: $49 (member) | $59 (nonmember) Click for details.

Writing Craft–Become a Better Writer
Thursdays 1:30–3:30 p.m. November 5, 12, 19
Participants may register for the entire series (NC7144) or for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of workshops and in-class writing exercises. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue.
NC7144 Cost for series: $49 (member) | $59 (nonmember) Click for details.

Writing Craft: Character Development
Thursday, November 5 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Having trouble creating characters that the reader believes could be a real person? In this craft class, we will focus on how to turn cardboard characters into well-rounded personalities that will engage readers. Participants will also learn how to incorporate the essential parts into the story or novel. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvement.
NC7145 Cost for single session: $24 (member) | $29 (nonmember) Click for details.

Writing Craft: Plot
Thursday, November 12 at 1:30–3:30 p.m.
In this craft class, we will complete several fun in-class activities to demonstrate how to add intriguing plot twists and turns to a story or novel. We will discuss story arc and pacing plus the essential details for plotting: character motivation/desire, action, and temporary resolutions. Time is allotted to share in-class writing for feedback and discussion. All writing levels welcome.
NC7146 Cost for single session: $24 (member) | $29 (nonmember) Click for details.

Writing Craft: Dialogue
Thursday, November 19 at 1:30–3:30 p.m.
In this craft class, we will focus on how to properly punctuate and format dialogue, use it to craft scenes that show rather than tell, and use it to provide story and character background. Balancing dialogue with narrative, incorporating actions and thoughts while maintaining viewpoint will be covered. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvements. All writing levels welcome.
NC7147 Cost for single session: $24 (member) | $29 (nonmember) Click for details.

A Novel Experience: Start Writing Your Book
Thursdays/Mondays: 10 a.m.-noon December 3, 7, 17, 21
Have you always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin? Then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages in the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. NC7149 Cost: $65 (member) | $80 (nonmember) Click for details.

ADDITIONAL FALL CLASSES Begin October 27 & 28 through ACE:
TUESDAYS: Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17 Dec. 1, 8 -- 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Writing Short Stories (6 weeks)
No time to write a book? Write a short story! Learn from published examples while crafting short stories. Explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length, structure, and genre details are covered. Cost: $84 Registration details: click here.

TUESDAYS: Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17 Dec. 1, 8 -- 6:30-8:30 p.m.
General Creative Writing (6 weeks)
Love to tell stories? Then this class if for you! Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts. Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory detail to show scenes. Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Cost: $89 (6 weeks) Registration details: click here.

WEDNESDAYS: Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 18, Dec. 2, 9, 16 3:30-5:30 p.m.
[NOTE: no class meetings on Veteran's Day (Nov. 11) and Thanksgiving week (Nov. 25)]
Revision Decisions (6 weeks)
The real work of writing happens during revision. Learn several techniques for rethinking and improving works-in-progress. After in-class revision time, participants will share excerpts and insights to learn from each other. Bring a short 2-page writing sample to each class. (NOTE: These techniques do not work well for poetry.) Cost: $89 (6 weeks) Registration details: click here.

With children and grandchildren returning to school, it's the perfect time to take a writing class. Get inspired or find help to continue work on your writing dreams. New classes begin September 8 and 10 through Collier Adult & Community Education (ACE). You must now pre-register for all ACE courses. (Classes with insufficient enrollment cancel 48 hours ahead of start date.) Call 239-377-1234 or click on the links below for register online.

Focus on Your Book Project
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 – September 8, 15, 22, 29, October 6, 13 (6 weeks)
Have you thought of writing a book? Discover the process of drafting both fiction and nonfiction books from planning and layout, chaptering and organizing, to the importance of different writing elements. Students will have time during each session to share excerpts of their works-in-progress for feedback. All writing levels encouraged. $89 Click to register.

General Creative Writing
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 – September 8, 15, 22, 29, October 6, 13 (6 weeks)
Love to tell stories? Then this class if for you! Explore different types of writing using a variety of prompts. Learn to create captivating characters, weave intriguing plots, and use sensory detail to show scenes. Writers of all levels will learn from each other through the sharing of in-class writing. Click to register.

Writing Memoir, Personal Experience, and Family Stories
Thursdays, 3:30-5:30 – September 10, 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15 (6 weeks)
Have you led an exciting life? Have a rich genealogy? Enjoy sharing past experiences? This class will help you navigate through the islands of your memory as you learn to select and develop key events from your past, focus on the people and drama, and incorporate description for reader engagement. Click to register.

Additional classes forming in October. Fall 2 session through ACE begins the week of October 26 and writing workshops offered at Renaissance Academy begin October 12. Watch this space for details.

Registration begins May 18, 2015 for summer courses at The Renaissance Academy. Click here to see the course listing.  Register soon for special summer rates (non-members for member fee + special discount for members).

I’m offering the following writing courses from mid-June through the end of August: 

With a Writer’s Eye
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Thursdays: 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (4 weeks) Dates: June 18, 25, July 2, 9
Improve your writing by learning to analyze successful stories. How do the authors pull together story elements (character, plot, dialogue, scene) to engage readers? We will dissect and discuss a variety of stories plus TV programs and movies with a writer’s eye, then apply what we have learned to our own writing. A perfect class for beginning writers or those interested in discussing stories and a great refresher for intermediate and advance writers. 
Course: NC6867 $60 member | $75 non-member | Pre-registration required. Click here. 
 
Writing Craft – Become a Better Writer (the 3-week series of writing craft sessions)
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Dates: July 16, 23, 30 
Participants may register for the entire series (NC6872) or for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of workshops and in-class writing exercises.  The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. 
Course:  NC6872 | $50 member / $65 non-member  | Pre-registration required. Click here. 

Writing Craft: Character Development (1 week)
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Thursday, July 16 – 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Having trouble creating characters that the reader believes could be a real person? In this craft class, we will focus on how to turn cardboard characters into well-rounded personalities that will engage readers. Participants will also learn how to incorporate the essential parts into the story or novel. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvement. 
Course:  NC6873 | $24 member / $29 non-member | Pre-registration required. Click here. 

Writing Craft: Plot (1 week)
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Thursday, July 23 – 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
In this craft class, we will complete several fun in-class activities to demonstrate how to add intriguing plot twists and turns to a story or novel. We will discuss story arc and pacing plus the essential details for plotting: character motivation/desire, action, and temporary resolutions. Time is allotted to share in-class writing for feedback and discussion. All writing levels welcome. 
Course:  NC6874 | $24 member / $29 non-member | Pre-registration required. Click here. 

Writing Craft: Dialogue (1 week)
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Thursday, July 30 – 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
In this craft class, we will focus on how to properly punctuate and format dialogue, use it to craft scenes that show rather than tell, and use it to provide story and character background. Balancing dialogue with narrative, incorporating actions and thoughts while maintaining viewpoint will be covered. Students will complete several in-class exercises with time to share and discuss for improvements. All writing levels welcome.  
Course:  NC6875 | $24 member / $29 non-member | Pre-registration required. Click here. 

A Novel Experience: Start Writing Your Book 
Naples Center (1010 Fifth Avenue | corner of Fifth Ave & 10 St.) 
Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12 noon (4 weeks) Dates: August 6, 13, 20, 27
Enrollment is limited to 12 participants. Have you always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin? Then this workshop is for you. You will learn the stages in the writing process as you plan and organize your book, and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction will learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams, and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. 
Course:  NC6876 | $75 member / $95 non-member  | Pre-registration required. Click here.