It’s thrilling to begin a new novel, but most writers know it’s the middle and the ending that can make or break a story. A great plot is both planned and discovered. This workshop will offer practical strategies for plotting a middle-grade or young-adult novel, while exploring the potential for discovery in drafting and revision. A combination of mini lectures, discussion, and exercises will give writers the tools to plot their novels. Work sessions and group feedback will give writers a detailed plan to take home and use as they draft or revise their manuscripts.

In this workshop you will

• deconstruct the perfect plot;
• consider novel structure in relation to narrative arc, conflict, and cause and effect;
• consider what it takes to make a great opening page and a satisfactory conclusion;
• learn strategies to help you plot your novel; and
• leave with a detailed plan to take you through a first draft or revision.

Please note: Participants will be asked to submit manuscript drafts of the first twenty pages of their novels prior to the workshop.