WORKSHOP FOCUS
This workshop is for those with a goal of discovering new ideas, and also for those wishing to explore many different avenues of writing for children and teens. Projects may range from picture books to poetry for middle grades to YA, both fiction and nonfiction.

Sessions will begin with reading, analysis, and discussion of books from two lists: one of edgy and “hip” lit, the other of historical-subject books, both fiction and nonfiction. Participants will brainstorm an idea list, with guidance from Linda Oatman High.

Working with ideas that ignite each student’s unique passions, she will spark each attendee’s creativity with individual prompts, questions, and leads. Special attention will be paid to strong beginnings and endings, as well as characterization, visualization, imagery, and poetic language.

Creativity sparking is achieved with such effects as writing by the light of black light and glow sticks, as well as by using music appropriate for each goal. By the end of the workshop, every student will have one of each project—one hip and one historical—either completed or well underway.