A Look at the Fiction of Elizabeth Gaskell - 0910

Victorian writer Elizabeth Gaskell was almost as well received in her day as Charles Dickens, yet she has not maintained the reputation that Dickens has. Despite her neglect by critics, this lesser-known writer explores and creates engaging characters, examines important themes, and resists predictable or easy solutions. We will read Gaskell’s biography of Charlotte Bronte, some of her short stories, and a few of her novels. Gaskell’s critique of her culture will lead us to a consideration of our own.

Instructor: Robin Colby
Audience: Retirees, lifelong learners, those pursuing teacher licensure renewal
Twelve classes: Wednesday, 10 a.m. – noon, September 9, 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18, December 2
Registration Deadline: September 2
Cost: $200

Register online | Download registration form (.pdf)

Creative Journaling: Crafting the Story - 0912

How do you turn writing prompts, exercises and freewriting journal entries into a story? This course will show participants how to craft creative journaling into stories for a non-fiction manuscript, memoir, fiction or poetry. We will discuss individual project goals and how to use writing prompts to further develop the ideas into a first draft. We will explore idea expansion and theme development.

Instructor: Megan Cutter
Audience: New and experienced writers alike
Five classes: Thursdays, 7 – 9 p.m., October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5
Registration Deadline: October 1
Cost: $100

Register online | Download registration form (.pdf)

How to Be a Freelance Editor - 0911

In this course, students will learn how they can translate their writing and editing skills into a successful freelance editing career. Experienced freelance editor Alice Osborn will discuss the different types of editing services authors may need to gain publication, along with the nuts and bolts of effective editing. She will also explore how to start with small editing projects, how to market your new editing business, how to gain referrals, and how to retain clients. All writing genres will be discussed: fiction, memoir, poetry and nonfiction as well as a review of APA and the Chicago Manual of Style.

Instructor: Alice Osborn
Audience: Writers in transition and authors who want to know the other side of the writing business
One class: Saturday, October 17, 9:30 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 9
Cost: $30

Register online | Download registration form (.pdf)

Sharing Your Story: A Memoir Class - 1257

We all have a life story inside of us, but many times we feel that what we’ve experienced is not relevant or important. In this workshop, you’ll learn how you can harness the power of your stories for future generations and that what you’ve learned over a lifetime is a treasure that must be shared! In-class writing exercises and feedback will help you generate memorable prose and you’ll also learn techniques to keep up your writing practice after the class concludes.

Instructor: Alice Osborn
Audience: Writers of all ages and all levels who want to explore their inner world
Three classes: Tuesdays, 7 – 9 p.m., October 13, 20, 27
Registration Deadline: October 6
Cost: $60

Register online | Download registration form (.pdf)