Overview

In-person 4-Day/3-Night Working Retreat

Novelists and Graphic Novelists, join Julie C. Dao and Wendy Xu for time to create and connect during a retreat built just for you.  A Working Retreat is lightly structured with one lecture each day, informal conversations, optional consultations with faculty, and plenty of time to create in the comfort and care of the Highlights Foundation retreat center.

• This is an in-person retreat for novelists and/or graphic novelists who are looking for light instruction and ample time to work on their novels.
• Lodging and meals are included.
• Begins at 5:30pm Eastern on Sunday, May 19
• Ends after lunch on Wednesday, May 22
• 20 participants max

From the Faculty Hosts:

“Something else that I’m interested in and really, really excited and looking forward to is just connecting with other writers because it’s just very isolating to create in solitude most of the time. So getting to talk to other people and share experiences and just share, share some vibes. You know, I think, I think it’s going to be really, really fun and inspiring.”—Julie C. Dao

“Well, I’m hoping that people remember how amazing it is to be artists and to be able to create art…What I care about most is the art. That’s what brought me into this. My passion for writing. It’s something that keeps me going, so I hope that the attendees will come and just remember how amazing it is to write stories and to tell stories.”—Julie C. Dao

Feedback Expected

• Optional consultations can be scheduled with one of our faculty mentors. These opportunities are available at an additional cost, and can be added at the time of registration or during your retreat stay. No submissions will be required or accepted for these 1:1 consultation opportunities, but you will fill out a questionnaire in advance (in our virtual classroom) to prepare.  Consultations will include time to discuss where you are in your stories, and ideas for moving forward with drafting, revisions, and/or submissions.
• There will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises, and as you connect with fellow attendees.

It’s a Great Fit If…

• You are a novelist and/or graphic novelist, at any level, in any style. This workshop is open to those beginning their creative journeys, to those who have more experience. Of most importance is having a project that you would like to work on during your independent, creative time.
• You enjoy discussing stories and your journey with fellow storytellers. You’ll gather ideas and informal feedback about your story in a supportive environment.
• You’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture.  It’s time to work on your own projects, with the added immersive experience of presentations, generative writing exercises, and time to connect with fellow novelists over meals and informal gatherings.

Detailed Agenda

All Times are Eastern Standard Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail.

Pre-Workshop

• You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Highlights Foundation related resources (including our Community Standards).  You can also fill out a questionnaire if you opt for a 1:1 consultation with a faculty mentor (at an additional cost).
• We encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress, as you will have time to draft, revise, and polish your work during independent time. This retreat is not filled with lecture.  At its heart, this retreat is time to work on your project.

How It Impacts Kids

Your novel or graphic novel can make a real difference in a kid’s life.  This Working Retreat gives you time and space to work on your projects, in a supportive environment.

Testimonials from Our Community

“It really gave me the focus I needed, to sort out my stories and make a strategy for submissions.”

“The cottage was perfect, the surroundings peaceful and relaxing. I was able to find a balance of work and play. So much thought and consideration has gone into providing an inspiring, rejuvenating environment.”

“This retreat was wonderful. There was so much positive energy, and it really gave me the momentum to keep working toward my goals.”

Related Resources

• 3 Questions With Julie C. Dao and Wendy Xu About Novels and Graphic Novels
• Outlines, Roadmaps, Goals & Accountability: Strategies That Work for Writers (Faculty Q&A)
• 10 Essential Steps to Convert a Graphic Novel Script Into Compelling Panels
• Your Book’s First Editor Is You: Is It Too Soon for Line Editing?
• Julie Dao and Anna-Marie McLemore on Reimagining Fairy Tales
• #HFGather Illustrator Chat: Pat Cummings, Dan Santat & Mike Curato on Graphic Novels