Thursday’s Pre-Conference Seminars
MASTERING THE ART OF SELF-EDITING with Ramona DeFelice Long
When: May 12, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
For: Novelist and short story artists who wish to view their work with a sharp and critical eye in order to craft marketable and readable stories.
Prerequisites: Writers need a novel opening (3-5 chapters, up to 50 pages) or a completed short story; samples sent in advance by April 25 and an identical copy brought to the seminar; limit 15 students.
Description: Participants in this hands-on seminar will first explore strategies to craft technically perfect stories through sound technique and style. Second, writers will learn revision skills that focus on characterization and consistency; central ideas and story arcs; and the depth and relevance that capture readers.
Instructor: Ramona DeFelice Long is an author and independent editor who works in fiction and non-fiction in multiple genres. She’s been recognized as an Established Artist in Fiction by the Delaware Division of the Arts, as well as the Pennsylvania State Arts Council and the SCBWI.
MANY GENRES, ONE CRAFT with various instructors
When: May 12, from 9 a.m. — 4 p.m.
For: Writers at any level interested in furthering their writing skills and business prowess.
Description: Six workshops for craft and career. The three morning sessions focus on plotting with Victoria Thompson, character with Timons Esaias, and setting with Heidi Ruby Miller and Jason Jack Miller. In the afternoon, sessions focus on pursuing publication with Natalie and Matt Duvall, building a brand with Mary SanGiovanni, and investing in your writing with Michael A. Arnzen.
Instructors: These Published Pennwriters are also contributors to the new, comprehensive writing guide Many Genres, One Craft, based on the Seton Hill University Writing Popular Fiction Graduate Program. Tuition includes a copy of the writing guide.
SOCIAL MEDIA FOR WRITERS with Jonathan Maberry
When: May 12, from 1-4 p.m.
For: A must for every writer who is published or hopes to be published. No exceptions.
Description: Social Media is the most important and powerful force in modern publishing. Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, etc. are crucial to building an audience, sustaining buzz, getting reviewed, and transforming a writing hobby into a writing profession. It’s absolutely crucial BUT it’s easier than you think. Anyone and everyone can learn how.
Instructor: Jonathan Maberry is a NY Times bestselling author, multiple Bram Stoker Award winner, and Marvel Comics writer. His recent works include The King of Plagues, Rot & Ruin, and Wanted Undead or Alive. His Joe Ledger thrillers are in development for TV. Jonathan is the founder of the Writers Coffeehouse and co-founder of The Liars Club.
CHARACTER-DRIVEN PLOTTING with CJ Lyons
When: May 12, from 1-4 p.m.
For: Novelists who have finished at least one draft of a novel and are seriously working towards publication.
Prerequisites: Must have a finished first draft of a novel, class size limited to 20
Description: Whether you’re a plotter or pantzer, you still need to tell a story. And to tell a compelling story, you need characters driven to take action. Using simple methods that students will not only remember but can also apply daily to their writing life, CJ will give you the tools you need to empower your creativity, amp up your plotting, and energize your writing! Topics covered include: building the 3-D character, understanding motivation-conflict-goals and how they propel the plot, using hooks and building suspense, understanding the classic 3 Act structure, theme as a tool, and CJ’s three secrets to success. Tuition includes a copy of CJ’s e-book on character-driven plotting!
Instructor: As a pediatric ER doctor, CJ Lyons has lived the life she writes about. In addition to being an award-winning, bestselling medical suspense author, CJ is a nationally known presenter and keynote speaker. Her critically acclaimed Angels of Mercy series is available now, and attendees receive a copy of the latest book in the series, Critical Condition. CJ’s newest project is as co-author of a new suspense series with Erin Brockovich.
QUESTIONS: Contact Julie Long at jlongwrites@mac.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 724-444-6466.
Cost for a full-day workshop: $125 for members/$165 nonmembers.
Cost for a half-day workshop: $65 for members/$95 nonmembers.
All workshops include lunch at noon.
Fees and any registration materials must be received by April 25.
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