Program Topics
Auditorium Sessions
Magic on the page: An Overview of Writing and Publishing Fiction
E. L. Doctorow famously said, “Writing a book is like making a long car trip at night. You can only see as far as the headlights reach. But you can make the whole trip that way.” In this session, I discuss how writing a novel is different from writing a term paper. I answer frequently-asked questions about the writing and publishing process including where authors get their ideas, how a novel progresses from idea to finished work, what do to with a first draft, what common problems to look for in revision, and how to get feedback on your work. Moving into the publishing process, I discuss the roles of agents, editors, illustrators, and book designers, using examples of preliminary and final covers from my books.
Worldbuilding: Writing Your Own Fantasy Fiction
In this session, I discuss elements of fiction, including character, setting, and plot, plus the element of magic that makes it fantasy. We discuss how character desires drive conflict, and review rules, tools, and limitations of magic with examples from popular fantasy novels.
Writing Workshops
Worldbuilding: Writing Your Own Fantasy Fiction (longer workshop)
In this session, I discuss elements of fiction, including character, setting, and plot, plus the element of magic that makes it fantasy. We discuss rules, tools, and limitations of magic with examples from popular fantasy novels.
Students develop and share viewpoint characters, settings, plot problems, and magical schemes for their own fantasy stories. Participants leave with a template for their own fantasy fiction.
Creating Compelling Characters
Characters are critical in engaging readers and driving story. In this interactive writing workshop, participants learn to develop compelling viewpoint and oppositional characters, identify what their characters want, and use those desires to drive plot and conflict. Effective techniques for delivering character and allowing readers to participate in story are discussed.
Conferences (Writers, Teachers, Librarians)
I can speak on any of the topics above for conferences. I have also done presentations on specific craft topics such as Using Dialogue Effectively, Elements of Fantasy Fiction, Writing for Young Adults, and Using Cinematic Techniques for Engaging Young Readers.
Contact Cinda to discuss other possible topics or combinations of topics. |
