Jumpstart Your Novel

Class Description

You’ve started out on a first novel draft—maybe you just have an idea, maybe you’ve written a few chapters, maybe you've written a lot, but have no idea how it all holds together—but you’re not sure where to go next. How do you think about plot? Character? Setting? No matter where you are in the drafting process, this class can help! Each week we will focus on one area of novel-specific craft and generate new material. Because the best way to learn to write a novel is to read novels, we will also read a novel together and discuss how it employs the skills that we're learning, and how to incorporate these same skills in our own writing. Lastly, we will offer each other feedback and support, not only on each other's writing, but on our writing process –– we'll check in each week about our struggles and victories, and discuss strategies to keep ourselves motivated, during class and after. You will come out of this course with a slew of new scenes, and the insight, inspiration, craft skills to complete your draft.

Please Note: Class Does not meet on June 19th (Juneteenth)

Class Format

This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood.

Covid-19 Update:

GrubStreet's space will be mask optional when Boston's Covid-19 Community Level is low or medium. When the Covid-19 Community Level is high, our space will require masks. Please check GrubStreet's Covid-19 page for the latest info on masking and Community Levels before visiting in-person.

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