Back to All Events

Writing the Personal

A 5 Week Online Fiction Workshop

Mondays, April 8-May 6, 6-9 PM

ALL LEVELS

No matter how hard writers try, we cannot separate ourselves from our stories, and the truth is that we shouldn’t. The best narratives draw from the experiences, beliefs, and cultures of their authors. Imparting these elements cultivates authenticity. Even though our lives are full of fodder for stories, however, it can be difficult to determine what parts of ourselves will contribute to a compelling novel. Do we start with character?

This course will serve as a launching point into writing the right stories based on the wealth of inspiration that is you. Whether starting a new project or revising an existing one, we will dig deep into the heart of our novel and work outwards, exploring how to write personal stories as fiction. We will also dive into critical craft lessons around subjects like characters, dialogue, point of view, plotting, and eventually traditional publishing.

Whether you prefer to meticulously plot out novels or write from the seat of your pants, the mix of workshops, lectures, and independent study you will engage in will impart a fresh perspective on writing for children, but also just writing in general. No matter your areas of interest, this course is where you belong. You don’t have to navigate writing a book alone.

 + PLEASE NOTE This workshop will occur ONLINE via Zoom. Students do not need to create an account to participate, but should test out Zoom before their class if they are first-time users. The week of the workshop, students will be emailed a link that they may click to enter the class.

+ REQUIRED EQUIPMENT A reliable, fast internet connection (broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE), speakers & a microphone (built-in or USB plug-in), and a webcam (built-in or USB plug-in).

If you would like to quickly and easily test your internet connection and your computer’s compatibility with Zoom, click HERE. Full details on supported Operating Systems, internet browsers, and more can be found HERE. To download and familiarize yourself with Zoom, click HERE.


George Jreije is the Lebanese-American author of the Shad Hadid children's series (HarperCollins), the upcoming graphic novel, Tarik’s Bazaar Adventure (HarperAlley), and more. He has also written short stories published in collaboration with UNICEF and various educational publishers.  

When not writing, George enjoys teaching through the Gotham Writer’s Workshop, Highlights Foundation, SCBWI, and more. He also enjoys scouring the world for delicious food and messing with new yoga poses. 


ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
All MWPA workshops require advanced registration. We accept registration by phone, mail, and online via our website. We cannot guarantee registration in the final 24-hours before a workshop, and can rarely accommodate day-of registration.

PAYMENT & CANCELLATION POLICIES
If you need to withdraw from a class after registering for any reason, please email or call the MWPA immediately. You may be eligible for a partial refund or credit, depending on how far in advance you cancel. → MORE INFORMATION

QUESTIONS
For any questions regarding this workshop, please contact programs@mainewriters.org.

REGISTER BY PHONE
Call 207-228-8263 and register with your VISA or MasterCard.


$275 Members/$475 Nonmembers


REGISTER BY MAIL
If you prefer to pay by mail, please print this registration form (downloadable PDF) and mail it to the MWPA with a check or credit card information.

SCHOLARSHIP
The MWPA is proud to offer one partial scholarship to this workshop for members-only. Scholarships are awarded on a combination of need and merit. Email programs@mainewriters.org to see if the scholarship is still available. Application Due by March 12 at 9:00 a.m.
→ MORE INFORMATION

MWPA WORKSHOP POLICIES
Registration in any MWPA workshop, program, or event constitutes your agreement to our terms and conditions. → MORE INFORMATION