Break Out!

We call them BreakOut! Sessions because the goal is to break you out of your comfort zone, and challenge your writing knowledge and skills in a space that offers support without negative judgment or criticism.

We are here to help you move your writing career forward, not place road blocks in your way!

Here’s a list of our classes (subject to speaker availability):

Research For Writers: Good writers always do their research, it helps with believability, even if your story is set in some far-off galaxy.  This class will help you identify all of the research tools available, and how to put them to the best use.

Rejection & Your Writing Goals: Being an author comes with it's own special set of rejections and denials.  In this class, you'll learn how to maximize your best attitudes and move forward through rejection and make those courteous "not now" letters work in your favor!

The Publishing World: The publishing world can be confusing and difficult to navigate.  This class will give you some insights into writing query Letters, finding agents, traditional publishing Houses, Print On Demand, building your platform, publicity, copyright & contracts.  You will walk away well-armed to take on the publishing pitfalls and win!

Master Plots & Characters:  There are 20 Master Plots and 45 Master Characters in the world of creative writing.  These have been traced back to the beginning of written stories. Learn about their fundamental elements and how you can tweak them to enliven your project!

Memoir & Biography:  Have you had an interesting or exciting life?  Or, do you have a bit of wisdom you'd like to share?  Do you know someone else who has had an interesting life and you think the world needs to hear their story?  Well, then this class is for you!  Learn the difference between Memoir and Biography, and how to get your "life" project off the ground.

The Editing Process:  Every writer (and publisher) knows the value of a good editor.  It's important that you understand the editing process and how a great editor can help grow your fantastic story into an extraordinary novel!  In this class you'll learn why you shouldn't edit yourself, and more importantly, why you shouldn't skip the editing process.

Copywriting As A Career:  Have you ever wondered who writes all those words you hear coming out of your radio and television?  Ever wonder why some websites, blogs and print ads grab your attention while others leave you turning the page?  Copywriters have special gifts to get you to sit up and take notice.  This class will give you a little insight into this fascinating career, and perhaps help propel your writing in a new direction.

Non-Fiction and Periodicals:  In this class you'll learn the special rules and expectations involved with writing a non-fiction book or magazine (or newspaper) article.  You'll learn about the all important POV (point of view) and how it can make or break your non-fiction work; along with other important skills and writing style distinctions to help get you paid!

Poetry Workshop:  This is an opportunity for you to learn more about the various styles of poetry and how to use vivid (and sometimes minimal) language to convey strong emotions and ideas.  This is a great class to take if you are a new poet, have a bunch of musty poems you're not sure what to do with, or are interested in participating more fully in our Poetry Slam!