Plan Your Novel in 4 Weeks - Remote!

Class Description

A novel is like a house. Without a basic structure, it will fall apart. All too often when writing, we fail to see this, causing our stories to lose shape and focus as they develop. In this class we will discuss classic novel structure, applying what we learn to our own works. Ahead of class, each student will send the instructor a synopsis of their novel, then share these with their fellow students. Though a combination of writing exercises, group discussion and instructor feedback, we will discover the internal dynamics of our novels to see where they're headed and what they might lack. From unstable ground situations to inciting incidents to points of attack, we will learn what it takes to set a story in motion and to keep it going until it's resolved. Once we’re done, each student will have not only an overall structure for their novel, they will have the perfect elevator pitch, the essence of their story that they can share with potential publishers and agents.

About GrubStreet Remote Classes

GrubStreet will be hosting all of our classes remotely from now through the month of April. We’ve decided as a staff that the best thing we can do for our community is to follow the advice of public health experts, and participate in the social distancing that’s recommended to help slow the spread of disease. You will be able to participate in class via Zoom videoconference from wherever you’re most comfortable. All you’ll need is a laptop or a phone! You’ll receive an email from your instructor on the day your class is scheduled with a link to join the class meeting via Zoom–no need to download anything or sign up for Zoom in advance! If you have questions about remote learning, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for more information.

For a glimpse at how remote learning works, look no further than the deep Zoom discussion of writing and literature below:

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.