Workshops
For many years, I taught English and Creative Writing at Colorado Mountain College. My book, Soul Sunday, won seven national awards, and I now write memoir and middle grade fiction. I’ve run various workshops for almost all age groups, so please don’t hesitate to contact me if you are interested in hosting an event. I’ve worked in public and private schools, park and recreation centers, at libraries, bookstores, and for many community groups. Classes can be arranged for home-school groups. Contact me for more information.
Some previous classes include:
Write Together: Parent/Child Workshop
Crack the Code: College Essay Writing
Stretch the Soul: Yoga and Writing
Splat: Art and Words
Journal Juice: Journaling and Creativity
Publishing 101
Imagination Engine: Creative Writing Workshop
Writing Classes
Writing Tips
Want to become a better writer? My three best pieces of writing advice…
1. Write.
That's the best thing I can tell you. If you want to be a writer, you need to write. Make lists, create stories, chart your day, design a poem, and write a song. There are lots of ways to write. Just do it.
2. Read.
That's the next best thing I can offer. Reading gives you ideas, helps teach technique, and encourages imagination. Read books, poems, recipes, letters, magazines, or newspapers. The more you read, the more you'll grow. And, it will help your writing.
3. Edit.
That's the last best thing I can say. Practice scratching. Learn to cut your words. It's not easy, but the more you do it, the better you'll get. Read people's work and edit what they've written. Without even realizing, it will help your own writing. Promise.
If you are interested in publishing, keep writing. Follow submission guidelines exactly and be professional. However, don't focus too much on getting published. It's not as important as you think. Just write. The rest will come when you are ready.
Listen to your teachers and find more teachers. If possible, find a writing workshop, a library's book club (some even have writing groups), or a community class. It's good to be surrounded by other people who want to write well. Ask people to edit your work and then rewrite. Remember, it's all a process.
The last thing I'll say about writing is this: have fun! It's a great way to use your imagination. Certainly, it can be frustrating and hard at times, but don't give up! Believe in yourself and follow your heart.