The Writer’s Toolkit: Strategies for Better Creative Writing in Any Genre

“Good writing grabs our attention, compels us to keep reading, and transports us to other worlds and other lives,” says instructor Heather June Gibbons. “How can words alone make us feel so intensely, make us care so much about what happens next? When a character seems real to us, when we can smell the smoke from the fire, feel the softness of the baby’s cheek, when we are moved to tears, or to laughter, it can seem like magic.”

Whether you're feeling stuck or just getting started, this class will introduce you to strategies that will invigorate your writing practice and enhance your skills. Heather says, "Each week in this five-week class, we will cover one area of craft, such as imagery or tension, focusing on practical strategies—we might even call them tricks—to bring our stories, reflections, and worlds to life. Our time together will include interactive activities, inspiring readings, lively discussions, and in-class writing exercises."

By the end of the five weeks, you will have gained a practical understanding of core writing techniques, lots of fresh material, ideas for how to develop it, and the tools you need to practice these strategies on your own.