July 21-23, 2025
In this three-part workshop for teens, Bram Stoker-nominated young-adult and middle-grade author Sarah Henning will share tips, tricks, and insider knowledge on how to spin an idea from “just vibes” into a story readers can sink their teeth into.
Please note that this series of workshops is intended for teen writers, not adult writers of teen literature. Registrants will be enrolled in and expected to attend all three parts. This class will be held in person as well as virtually via Zoom simultaneously. Please indicate whether you will be attending in-person or virtually when registering. An email address is required when registering to attend on Zoom.
From Vibes to Pitch
Monday, July 21
1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Taking the squishy mass of an idea and molding it into a clear and concise pitch is one of the best ways writers can set themselves up for success in a manuscript. Participants will learn techniques to spin an idea into something with enough substance to become a story.
From Pitch to Plot
Tuesday, July 22
1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Using the ideas from part one, the group will expand their pitches into longer form “back of a book jacket” descriptions. Participants will explore ways to sketch out characterization and plot, whether they’re a “plotter,” “pantser,” or somewhere in between.
From Draft to Publishing
Wednesday, July 23
1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
In the final part of the workshop, participants will learn tips and tricks about the revision process. Then, they’ll get a peek behind the curtain to see how a book is traditionally published by the “Big Five."