Jumpstart Your Novel

Class Description

You’ve started on a first draft of a novel—maybe you have a good idea, a few chapters, or you're somewhere in the middle--but you're not sure where to go next. Which character should the novel follow? What type of narrator is best for the story you want to tell? What is point of view and how can you use it to your story's advantage? No matter where you are in the drafting process, this class can help you find some answers. Each week we will focus on one area of novel-specific craft--character development, scene building, conflict, narrative arc, etc.--and generate new material through a series of in-class prompts and exercises. We'll also read a novel together and discuss how it employs the tools, techniques, and skills that we're learning and how we might incorporate these elements in our own writing. We will also offer each other feedback and support, not only on each other's writing, but on our writing process. You will come out of this course with new scenes, skills, and insights to help you complete your draft.

Please note: Class does not meet November 27th.

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.