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.