Workshops
Learn how to turn your ideas and inspirations into engaging stories for middle grade and young adult readers in this interactive writing workshop.
There are no available registration dates at this time.
Choreographer Twyla Tharp wrote, “One idea does not make a story. You need a second idea to rub it against in order to make a fire.”
Guided by award-winning author Anica Mrose Rissi, in this interactive, generative writing workshop, we’ll explore how to feed the sparks of your initial ideas and inspirations and grow them into layered, complex stories that will burn bright in the eyes of editors and the minds of young readers.
We’ll discuss strategies for approaching both first drafts and revisions, with special attention paid toward developing compelling plot and character arcs, and crossing external tensions and conflicts with internal ones. We’ll parse the differences between the middle grade and young adult markets, discuss the nuances of structuring and revising your book with its ideal reader(s) in mind, and go deep on voice and character development. And, of course, we will write. Daily writing exercises will help you build the sturdy scaffolding you need to get through a first draft or approach a major revision.
Bring your questions about writing, revising, and publishing; a pen and notebook; an open heart; and a love of story. Open to writers of all experience levels.
Reviews of Anica’s titles
“Exceptional pacing creates a breathless, adrenaline-filled chase through Kayla’s memories.” — Publishers Weekly
“Stack Wishing Season next to Bridge to Terabithia. Anica Mrose Rissi paints a picture and sings a song with a tremendous, unforgettable voice. As emotionally healing as it is ultimately joyful.” — Rita Williams-Garcia, Newbery Honor Author of One Crazy Summer
“Anica Mrose Rissi masterfully conveys the irresistible power of physical attraction and how that intoxication can unexpectedly turn toxic. I’m afraid too many readers will relate to this unflinchingly honest portrayal of an abusive first love, which is precisely why Always Forever Maybe is an essential book.” — Megan McCafferty, New York Times bestselling author of the Jessica Darling series
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Instructor: Anica Mrose Rissi
Anica Mrose Rissi is the award-winning author of more than a dozen books for kids and teens, including the Anna, Banana chapter book series; the picture books The Teacher's Pet, Watch Out for Wolf!, and Love, Sophia on the Moon; the middle grade books Hide and Don’t Seek: And Other Very Scary Stories and Wishing Season; and the young adult novels Always Forever Maybe and Nobody Knows But You. Her essays have been published by The Writer and the New York Times, and she plays fiddle in and writes lyrics for the band Owen Lake and the Tragic Loves.