How My Workshops "Work"

We don't do any reading in the workshop.  Why?

Because we usually only go for 2 hours and that isn't enough to read and have everyone get a chance to respond.

Also, responding off the top of our heads isn't usually the best, most insightful critique for the writer.  By reading in advance we have the chance to reread as often as we want, and to consider what we want to say.

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We don't do any writing in the workshop.  Why?

Because this is a workshop about craft. Some people like workshops where they write because they need a special time and place dedicated to writing, or they may not write at all.  I understand that.  But this not that kind of workshop.  By writing at home, at your leisure, you have time to consider the best way to express yourself and to rewrite as much as you want.  

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So, what do we do in workshop?  We discuss the works we already read.

Our aim is to be helpful to the writer by offering feedback.  We get to ask questions, make comments,  even make suggestions about how to make the work even better.  

I also teach techniques that all story tellers need to learn.  Memoirs, novels, plays, short stories...what they have in common is that they are storytelling.  If you take a look at my Memoir Writing booklets, you will get an idea of what I mean when I talk about "craft."

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Can I join if I haven't written anything?  Absolutely.

You may end up writing something or you may not. Your reasons for joining are your own.  You will learn a lot and if and when you do decide to write you will be better prepared.

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What if I don't feel comfortable sharing my work with the group?  You don't have to.

But if you want feedback, you can share it with only me.

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Do I have to buy your book(s) to join?  Of course not. 

But I can promise 2 things if you do: firstly you won't go broke if you do, and secondly you will learn a lot.

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Why are some workshops free and others have a fee? It depends on the venue.

Venues that don't charge for the workshop (like libraries), I usually do for free.

Venues that do charge, I ask for a fee.

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If you have other questions or concerns please feel free to email me.