Workshop Descriptions

Classes for the Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Writer

CANDY ARRINGTON
Candy Arrington is a contributing writer for Focus on the Family’s Focus on Your Child parenting publications. Additionally, her publishing credits include: Marriage Partnership, Today’s Christian, The Upper Room, Christian Home & School, Encounter, Discipleship Journal, War Cry, The Lookout, Deacon, Christian Communicator, Advanced Christian Writer, CBN.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy is a contributor to numerous compiled books, including the Chicken Soup series, and is co-author of AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B & H Publishing Group). She is also on staff with The Christian Communicator Manuscript Critique Service.

•  Tackling Tough Topics (Workshop)
Suicide, divorce, infertility, terminal or chronic illness, and abuse—life often involves difficult circumstances. The challenge is to write about painful experiences in a way that ministers to others rather than promotes a pity party. Do you have a desire to help others overcome their pain and move on? Learn to deal with tough topics in a manner that provides hope, healing, and encouragement, while catching an editor’s eye. Determine which publishers to target for niche topics and how best to structure your proposal and manuscript.

• Six Nonfiction Markets Worth Pursuing (Workshop)
Writing opportunities are plentiful.  However, some opportunities require more time and effort than they are worth. Is it just about the money? Should you ever write for no pay? Is contributing to compilation books a good idea? Are there other considerations when deciding which opportunities to pursue? Learn six writing markets worth pursuing, and why, in this discussion.

• Self-editing for Success (Workshop)
Sometimes, writers have the attitude that an editor’s job is to clean up their mistakes, when in fact your writing may be consistently rejected because you’ve overlooked obvious errors. Don’t brand yourself as a novice. In this workshop, learn the secrets of self-editing your way to publication success.

JANET BENREY
Janet Benrey brings an unusually diverse background – including experience as editorial director of a small press, executive recruiter, and a novelist – to book development.  She and her husband Ron have co-authored three mystery novels published by Broadman & Holman, two cozy mysteries published by Barbour Books, and four cozy romantic mysteries for Steeple Hill. The fourth will be published in December.  Janet is an independent literary agent; she operates her own agency: Benrey Literary.  Janet earned her degree in Communication (Magna cum Laude) from the University of Pittsburg.  She is also a graduate of York House College in Kent, England, where she studied commerce and languages. Janet will be co-teaching some of her workshops and classes with Ron Benrey (see bio below).

• Winning the Fiction Genre Game (Workshop)
Writing in a recognized—and popular—genre is essential if you want your first Christian novel to be published. Janet, a literary agent, frequently has to reject well-written manuscripts because their genres make them impossible to place with publishers. This workshop will examine the various Christian fiction genres, describe their specific characteristics, compare their popularity, and help you decide which genre is the right one for your work in progress.

• Plotting? Plodding? (Continuing Class)
One of the most challenging aspects of writing a novel is telling a compelling story — one full of dramatic conflict that keeps readers (starting with agents and editors) turning pages. Alas, too many first novels have “plods” rather than plots. Happily, the elements of a good plot have been known for 2,500 years. This continuing class will teach you the most effective plotting “models” and how to apply them to your novel(s). Ron and Janet have left time to analyze student stories, so bring plot summaries with you.

• Fiction After Fifty (Workshop)
Ron and Janet Benrey started writing fiction later in life—they sold their first novel—“Little White Lies”—to Broadman and Holman when both were past 50. They have subsequently sold six more novels and two novellas (to Broadman and Holman, Barbour, and Harlequin) and have established “midlife careers” as inspirational novelists. This workshop will focus on the special requirements of writing after 50, including understanding the odds (what’s possible and what’s not); bonehead mistakes that middle-aged writers don’t have time to make (Ron and Janet made most of them); and hurry-up strategies for success.

RON BENREY
Ron Benrey is a highly experienced writer who has written more than a thousand bylined magazine articles, seven published non-fiction books, and scores of major speeches for the CEOs of Fortune-100 companies. He and his wife Janet have co-authored three mystery novels published by Broadman & Holman, two cozy mysteries published by Barbour Books, and four cozy romantic mysteries for Steeple Hill. The fourth will be published in December. Ron holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master’s degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a juris doctor from the Duquesne University School of Law. He taught advanced business-writing courses at the University of Pittsburgh. Ron is the author of the recently published Complete Idiot’s Guide to Writing Christian Fiction.

• The Five Aspects of Publishable Fiction (Continuing Class)
In today’s tough marketplace, your manuscript must by “publishable” when you submit it—or else the agent or editor will almost certainly reject it. Ron and Janet Benrey made a careful study of publishability after six years of novel-writing failure. The lessons they learned—and applied—enabled them to rewrite and sell their first novel to Broadman & Holman less than 18 months later. Ron’s workshop will examine the five key requirements of publishability and give you the skills you need to make your manuscript “ready for prime time.”

• The Magic Paragraph: From Tragedy to Success (Workshop)
An essential requirement of fiction is that it engage the reader’s imagination in what John Gardner has called “the fictional dream.” Ron and Janet Benrey developed a simple approach—the Magic Paragraph—that “automates” the process of creating a fictional dream. They call it the Magic Paragraph because: 1) it works every time; and 2) it “magically” propelled them from unpublished to published writers. This workshop will describe the Magic Paragraph and provide numerous examples. Because the Magic Paragraph is closely connected to Point of View, the workshop will also review the most common POVs used in fiction today.

JONATHAN CLEMENTS
Jonathan Clements is a 13-year veteran in the areas of career consulting, brand development for individuals, public relations, and management – with concentrations and work experiences in a variety of fields, including the literary, speaking, music, and entertainment worlds.  These distinctive experiences combine for unique perspectives, as it relates to the development and placement of ideas and intellectual properties.  Relationship driven … he prides himself as a true “connector” of people.

ATHENA DEAN
Athena Dean and Carla Williams will co-teach the following workshops which are a continuing series, but also work as stand-alone sessions.

Monday: Self Publishing: Last Resort or Starting Point?
Does it make sense to self publish? What is the difference between royalty publishing, self publishing, and print on demand? We’ll answer these questions and demonstrate the benefits of publishing with a reliable “custom publisher." The last thing you want to do is look “self published.” Come and learn the top ten fatal flaws to avoid.

Tuesday: Tootin’ Your own Horn: Building an Effective Platform
Whether you decide to self publish or go with a royalty publisher, you need a platform. Learn how to find your target audience and to effectively and consistently reach them with your message. Discover the power of “branding” and how to position yourself in the market.

Wednesday: Market Your Book: How to Build a Shining Publicity and Advertising Campaign
Explore the various promotional tools and venues for effectively marketing your book. Develop a specific plan to reach your target audience and get the most for your advertising dollars. Discover how to implement publicity, media, and internet in your unique marketing plan.

CARLA WILLIAMS
Carla Williams, author, speaker, and workshop leader, has writing credits in curriculum, devotions, short stories, and numerous articles. She has authored or co-authored 24 books (11 with traditional publishers and 13 self-published), including As You Walk Along the Way, My Bible Dress-Up Book, and Ears to Hear: Hearing the Voice of God by Way of the Cross. She enjoys helping writers and editors through her position as Editorial and Publicity Director for WinePress Publishing Group.

Self Publishing Gets an Extreme Makeover (Continuing Class)

(Co-teaching with Athena Dean. See class descriptions under Athena Dean’s bio)

JESSICA DOTTA
Jessica Dotta is a former fiction publicist with experience handling new authors as well as best-selling campaigns. She currently serves as the director of marketing with Watermelon Ministries and a freelance editor for Glass Road Public Relations. In her free time, she helps her local bookstore by writing their newsletter and setting up book clubs. She is also co-owner of the popular literary blog, Novel Journey and editor of their E-zine, Novel Journey Monthly. Jessica resides in TN with her husband and daughter.

• Platform is Queen: Building an Audience before Publication (Workshop)
In the court of publishing, if story is king, platform is queen. You’ve written a great novel, but so have a lot of folks. How do you sweeten the deal to increase your odds of earning a publishing contract? By having a ready-made readership before you’re published. The ladies of Novel Journey and Novel Reviews will show you how to build a web presence and bring in a readership that will have publishers taking notice.

EVA MARIE EVERSON
Eva Marie Everson is the author of both fiction and nonfiction books including the award-winning The Potluck Club series, the award-winning Sex, Lies and the Media, Sex, Lies and High School; and Oasis; A Spa for Body & Soul. Summer 2008 will see the release of her highly anticipated Falling Into the Bible, a book written for Thomas Nelson/Nelson Bibles. It is, as Eva describes it, a photographic, educational, and tour of the heart into the land of the Bible, Israel. She has written for numerous periodicals and ezines, speaks at writers and women's conferences both nationally and internationally, is a seminary graduate (and is back at it again), past resident of Word Weavers, past president of AWSA's Steering Committee, and a member of a number of organizations for writers and speakers. Eva Marie enjoys reading, walking and raising her "little one" with her hubby of lots and lots of years. In her spare time - she has no spare time.  www.evamarieeverson.com

• Fiction 101: At the Movies (Continuing Class)
If you are a new novelist or are wanting to get your feet wet in the Land 'O Fiction, join Eva Marie as she explores fiction's various elements. Using the 1991 TNT original film Crazy From The Heart, Eva Marie guides her students scene by scene for an often zany and never boring study of character, plot, theme, dialogue and other elements of the genre. BYOP&C!

• Advanced Non-fiction Clinic (Continuing Class)
This class is limited to 10 students. You will be helped with the overall outline of your book, the openings, how each chapter points back to the issue of the book, titles (for proposals and editor eye-catching!), references, getting quotations, using Scripture properly…and more. If you have material ready for an advanced workshop, contact Eva Marie at PenNhnd@aol.com

ALTON GANSKY
Alton Gansky is a fulltime writer. He is the award winning author of 17 novels and 6 nonfiction works. In addition to his own writing, he consults with publishers and writers. He has also written scores of videos, radio and television ads and other business productions. Prior to turning to fulltime writing, he was the senior pastor of a Southern Baptist church. In addition to his writing, he speaks to writers groups and church organizations.

• Writing the Tough Scenes - fight scenes, love scenes, arguments, point-of-view from the other gender, and more (Continuing Class)

• From Idea to Story: the care and feeding of an idea (Workshop)

LINDA GILDEN
Linda Gilden is the author of the Love Notes series: Love Notes in Lunchboxes and Love Notes on His Pillow, both from New Hope Publishers. Mommy Pick Me-Ups, her newest book from New Hope, will be released in April, 2008. Linda is an award-winning author who has written numerous articles, contributed to many books and speaks regularly at writers conferences around the country. As a freelance editor, Linda enjoys helping people discover and improve their writing talents and experience “aha” moments in their writing journeys.  Linda and her husband enjoy family time where she finds lots of inspiration for her writing and speaking! Visit www.lindagilden.com.

• Glimpses into the Writer’s Glossary (Workshop)
Is your head spinning from new words you’ve heard at the conference? Words like first rights, work for hire, query letter, kill fee, ghostwriter, etc. Join us to explore key words that need to be part of every writer’s vocabulary. And if you have specific questions about a word, be prepared to ask them in this information-packed workshop.

• Networking and Connecting the Dots in Your Writing Career (Workshop)
We need each other! Writers spend a lot of time working alone. Therefore, it is important for us to have a network of others who understand. Networking also provides a way to do quick and accurate research for writing. A marketing network can help you spread the word about your book. Make the most of your contacts and make them part of your writing team.

• Writing Articles That Sell (Workshop)
Learn the basics of magazine article writing in this information-packed continuing class. Topics addressed include how to break in to the magazine market, where to find marketable ideas, how to study the markets to find a perfect fit for your manuscript, making the most of your interview time, using the Internet in your writing and much more. Find out how to give editors what they want so that your work stands out from other submissions.

SUZANNE HADLEY
Suzanne Hadley lives in Colorado Springs, Colo. and has served as associate editor of Focus on the Family Clubhouse and Clubhouse Jr. magazines since 2000. During that time she has written hundreds of articles for periodicals, including Boundless Webzine, Focus on the Family, Brio, Brio and Beyond and Breakaway. She is also a regular contributor to the Line, a blog for Christian young adults. Suzanne’s passions include children, performing arts, theology, coffee and the church. 

• Kid Friendly: Writing with Kid-appeal (Workshop)
Children are honest, fun, energetic and silly. Unfortunately, the writing for  this age group is often the opposite. Writing for kids can be a lot like  speaking another language. Get inside their heads and find out what works  and what doesn’t with a young audience.

• Begin and End with a Bang (Workshop)
In “Alice and Wonderland” the mock turtle tells Alice, “Begin at the beginning, and when you get to the end—stop.” Telling a children’s story  isn’t that easy. Beginning at the beginning isn’t always the best thing to do.  Learn to craft engaging leads and powerful endings to make your stories  sparkle.

NICK HARRISON

DENNIS HILLMAN
Dennis Hillman has served as senior editor and now publisher at Kregel Publications for the past 15 years. His academic background includes degrees in English, history, and theology, and he also served as a pastor for some 14 years. Kregel Publications publishes book on spirituality, theology, fiction, family and parenting, and is actively looking for fresh ideas that will make God's truth a living reality in life.

GINA HOLMES
Gina Holmes is founder and senior editor of the popular literary site, Novel Journey, where she has interviewed the gamut of popular authors such as Jerry Jenkins, Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker and Noah Lukeman. By day Gina is a mother, novelist, and freelance writer who has contributed to publications such as Epiphany’s and The Roanoker magazines. Originally from New Jersey, Gina now makes her home in Southern Virginia where she’s learned to forgo bagels for biscuits and “yo’s” for “y’alls.”

• Best Writing Advice – from Novel Journey (Workshop)
Running the popular literary site Novel Journey has afforded Gina Holmes, Ane Mulligan and Jessica Dotta special opportunity to pick the minds of the greatest writers of our times, from NYT best –seller, Nicholas Sparks to celebrated literary agent, Noah Lukeman, to Pulitzer winner, Geraldine Brooks. As a result, they have compiled priceless tidbits of writing and publishing advice, which when taken, can help make a good writers great, a great writer sell better, and assist writers to more effectively navigate the road to and through publication.

STEVEN JAMES
Critically acclaimed author Steven James is one of the nation’s most innovative storytellers. Since developing his skill as a performer at East Tennessee State University (MA in Storytelling), he has spoken more than 1500 times throughout North America, Europe and Asia. Now harnessing his ability to build suspense with his vivid imagination and evocative writing, Steven is launching his first series of high-octane thrillers, the Bowers Files. Steven lives with his wife and daughters in the hills of Tennessee.

• How to Write Thrillers, Action, and Suspense (Continuing Class)
This eye-opening seminar will reveal subtle secrets to crafting better fiction, improving the flow and pace of your story, and writing clearer, more vivid scenes. We’ll focus on writing high-octane thrillers, suspense, and gripping action. Come prepared to participate in writing exercises that will help you develop better overall structure for your novel, handle flashbacks, and plot your novel through understanding the casual nature of fiction. This seminar will be most helpful for people with some fiction writing experience, although all writers are welcome.

• Dusting Off your Memories: Four Steps to Crafting Personal Experience Stories (Workshop)
Learn  how to foster poignant memories, search for connections, develop structure and write yourself out of the spotlight. Writing personal experience stories is a process of editing your life—shaping, shifting, crafting and piecing together seemingly unrelated events into meaningful stories. The best personal experience stories have a character we can relate to, an intriguing problem or struggle, vivid details that help us envision the story and emotion that impacts our lives. As you unclutter your memories and use these four steps to share your stories, you will help others discover the lessons God has woven into their lives as well

• 2008 Reinventing yourself: Breaking Into New Genres and New Frontiers (Workshop)
Is your writing in a rut? Are you looking for ways to take your career in a new direction, re-envision your writing, or break into new markets? If so, this workshop is for you! With a lively interactive format, we’ll explore ways to chart new courses for your career while continuing to nurture those areas where you’ve already found success. Steven James has written 20 books of creative non-fiction and fiction including educational resources for children’s ministry, drama books, novels, and inspirational books for adults and teens. Over the last two years he has been turning a corner in his writing career and will share his insights of what he’s learned along the way.

• 2008 Storytelling Skills for Speakers (Workshop)
Learn how to make your talks and speeches more gripping, attention-getting, and impactful. Gain confidence in your ability to tell stories effectively. Seven secrets to successful storytelling. Develop storytelling skills (such as voice, gesture, and pacing) and sharpen the storytelling and listening skills you already have. Your instructor, Steven James, has a Master’s Degree in Storytelling and speaks hundred of times each year around the country. A handout will be provided.

BILL JENSEN
William (Bill) Jensen has worked in book publishing for over 30 years. He has discovered, launched, and championed the publishing careers of numerous best selling authors. He has acquired and worked with authors such as Stormie Omartian, Michelle McKinney Hammond, Kay Arthur, Greg Laurie, Tony Evans, Pat Robertson, Lisa Whelchel, Jill and Stuart Briscoe, Erwin Lutzer, Dr. James Dobson, Shaunti Feldhahn, Joni Eareckson Tada, and a host of others. When he’s not working he’s likely fly-fishing or listening to classical music or opera. Bill makes his home in Eugene, Oregon with his wife Shelia and three daughters.

WILLIAM K. JENSEN LITERARY AGENCY INFORMATION
For years, many authors and friends in publishing have encouraged Bill to start his own literary agency. In October 2005 he opened the William K. Jensen Literary Agency. Currently, Bill is representing 26 authors, such as D. James Kennedy, Mark Hitchcock, Allison Pittman, Christian Ditchfield, Tammy Maltby and Lenya Heitzig. In his two years of business he contracted 50 books with publishers such as Waterbrook, Multnomah, Thomas Nelson, random House Children’s Books, Harvest House, Bethany Publishers, and many more.

Bill is presently working on growing his agency. Bill is interested in most types of Christian books, including but not limited to: fiction, Christian living, devotional, marriage, family life, apologetics, biography, children’s, gift books, cookbooks, prophecy, humor, health, inspirational, political, social issues, women’s issues, and men’s issues.

• Book Proposals that Make an Impression: How to Get a Publisher to Take Notice (Workshop)
William Jensen has reviewed thousands of book proposals and has participated in publishing committees for 25 years. In the incredibly competitive world of book publishing it takes a great proposal to get noticed. Book proposals should be designed to meet the needs of the publisher and the dynamics of the publishing committee. Often they are not. Bill will bring his knowledge and experience to teach you what it takes to create a professional proposal that will be taken seriously by publishers.

• The Changing World of Book Publishing: What it Means to Writers (Workshop)
This class will discuss the significant changes in the book world in recent years and the impact it has on publisher’s decisions. Writers need to know about these trends, both current and emerging, and adapt to the changing environment. The future world of publishing will be only for “the survival of the fittest.”

• The Role of Agents in Publishing: What Now, That You Have an Offer? (Workshop)
Most writers are focused on just one thing, getting published. However, what takes place once a publisher makes an offer for your book is critically important. This class will discuss what is to be expected regarding; advances, royalty, editorial processes and expectations, manuscript due dates, release date, author’s involvement in critical publishing decisions, and more. The long range impact on an author’s career from this process is significant.

• Book Proposals that Make an Impression: How to Get a Publisher to Take Notice (Workshop

• The Changing World of Book Publishing: What it Means to Writers (Workshop)

• The Role of Agents in Publishing: What Now, That You Have an Offer? (Workshop)

TERRI KALFAS
Terri Kalfas has been with Hensley Publishing for 20 years. Before that she worked as a journalist, and as a freelance writer and editor. Her goal is to publish Bible studies that convince people they should be reading the Word and not only reading books about the Word.

• Writing Bible Studies for Publication (Continuing Class)
If you’re thinking of writing a Bible study, or if you’re already writing your own studies for your church or small groups, this session is for you. While you don’t need a doctorate in order to get your study published, you do need to know certain principles and concepts before you pitch your project or send off your manuscript. Learn what to include in your study, how to put your message on paper, who your market really is, and what editors consider as they evaluate your work.

CINDY KENNEY
Cindy Kenney is an award-winning writer, editor and international speaker. She has published over 50 of her own books, 8 curriculum programs, and numerous scripts, articles and other materials. During the last ten years, Cindy worked as the Publishing Director and Senior Managing Editor/Writer for Big Idea Productions (VeggieTales). Today, Cindy continues to serve as an editorial consultant for Exclaim and is thrilled to be pursuing her dream as a freelance writer and editor. Cindy has worked with over 20 publishers in the industry and continues to pursue excellence in all she does by creating fresh, new and innovative materials that help readers discover and develop a relationship with the Lord.

• Show and Tell – Children’s Track (Continuing Class)
Show and Tell – something every child delights in participating. In this ongoing teaching track for children’s picture and chapter book writers, we’ll dig into new ways to provide readers with fresh, new stories as we learn how to bring out the best in our writing by doing some innovative show and tell. In this course we will:

1. Discuss the new trends in children’s publishing and how to address them
2. Find creative ways to develop ideas and turn them into page turners
3. Work through ways to show while we tell God’s stories to children and create stories that kids don’t wan to put down
4. Learn how to create book dummies and learn some resourceful and imaginative ways to edit a children’s manuscript for presentation

• Top Five Characteristics for a Career in Writing (Workshop)
So you want to be a writer? The truth is that anyone can write a book and self publish it in today’s world. If you are looking for a CAREER in writing, it’s going to take a lot more. In this workshop we’ll take a careful look at the top five characteristics needed to obtain and maintain a successful career in writing. You will receive a step-by-step process for how to achieve each of those characteristics, along with ways to overcome stumbling blocks. By the end of the workshop you will have known how to develop a solid plan for achieving your own career in writing.

• Gotcha! Capture and Keep Reader Attention (Workshop)
Have you ever wondered how to capture the attention of your reader and keep it? How many times have you heard that you have to do an outstanding job at seizing the reader’s attention right fro the start of your manuscript? The fact is, if you don’t captivate your reader (or editor) the moment they begin to read, your story will never be read by anyone. This workshop will delve into ways to create strong beginnings in writing fiction. We’ll look at some innovative, fun, and attention-getting ways to reach out and grab your reader and keep them reading until your story is done.

• Making SENSE of Your Story (Workshop)
This workshop will help you to incorporate each of the five senses into every fiber of your story from beginning to end. You’ll discover new ways to weave sight, sound, touch, smell and taste into your plot, your description, your dialogue, your character development, the tone and pace of your writing. One of the biggest mistakes writers make is to create a story that jumps back and forth from description/set-up to action. Make your writing come alive by utilizing these sensory images to blend your words into a seamless stream that make readers anxious to read your next story.

SUSAN KING
Susan King, assistant editor of The Upper Room daily devotional guide, also teaches English at Lipscomb University and functions as a seminar facilitator in leadership and group dynamics.  Formerly she taught English and feature-writing classes at Biola University, served as book editor for The Institute of Scriptural Psychology, and wrote magazine features as a freelance writer.

• Turning Personal Experience into a Devotional Message (Continuing Class)
Because devotional writing requires the highest level of writing skill, this class will focus on advanced writing.  Participants will come away with not only specific requirements for writing devotionals, but also concrete tools for self-editing to produce polished works for any genre.

GINGER KOLBABA
Ginger Kolbaba is editor of Marriage Partnership magazine, a publication of Christianity Today International. She's also worked as an associate editor of Marriage Partnership sister publication Today's Christian Woman and as an assistant editor of Preaching Today. Ginger's been a columnist for Let's Worship, has published more than 150 articles, and is author or coauthor of six books including the Gold-Medallion nominated Refined by Fire, and her most recent Surprised by Remarriage. Earlier this year, Ginger published her first novel, Desperate Pastors' Wives (Howard Books of Simon and Schuster), the first of a three part series. The second novel, A Matter of Life and Death, releases March 2008. Visit Ginger at www.GingerKolbaba.com.

• Magazine Writing: From Queries to Re-writes (Continuing Class)
In the course of its lifetime, a book will sell an average of 7,000 copies. Some more—if you’re Jerry Jenkins or Rick Warren. Most will sell less. Contrast that with magazine writing in which your article could be read by more than one million people. But there’s an art to magazine writing—and magazine publishing is a difficult field to break into. What’s the secret? This class will tell you everything you need to know to break into the field and thrive. You’ll learn all you need to know from how to write successful query letters, to understanding what rights a magazine is purchasing, to handling rewrites successfully.

• Magazine Writing Tips Every Editor Wants You to Know (Workshop)
Have you ever wondered why an article you wrote, which in your estimation was award-worthy, was rejected? Do you wonder what editors are really looking for in articles? This class will tell you the secrets to getting your query letters and articles to the top of an editor’s manuscript pile and will put you ahead of the competition. A great start for beginners or a good refresher course for pros.

CARMEN LEAL
Carmen Leal is a frequent and popular presenter at writers conferences nationally and internationally and the author of WriterSpeaker.com and You Can Market Your Book. As her husband's caregiver for twelve years, Carmen knows first hand the stresses and the joys of caregiving. Out of her experiences God birthed a ministry to families with Huntington's disease and those in caregiving situations. She is the founder of SomeOne Cares, a Christian caregiver conference sponsored by LifeWay, and the author of, among others, The Twenty-Third Psalm for Caregivers, The Twenty-Third Psalm for Those Who Grieve, and Faces of Huntington's. Her writings have been featured in Guideposts, Focus on the Family, Decision Magazine, the Orlando Sentinel, and numerous national and local publications. A storyteller with a dramatic testimony, she is a popular presenter at women's retreats, church groups, conventions and conferences. Her wit, humor, and poignant personal observations, coupled with her down-to-earth style and common sense approach to dealing with life, inspire her audiences. Through her transparency, she has the ability to encourage and bring hope to all. Carmen lives with her family on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.
carmen@carmenleal.com
SomeOne Cares Caregiver Conference  - http://www.someonecaresonline.com

Creating a Writer’s Website (Workshop)
Every writer serious about publication should have a web page. Learn valuable internet promotional tips to shift your writing career into high gear. This workshop discusses what to include and what to leave off your site, how to choose a web designer, do-it-yourself tools, affordable hosting options, and more.

• Tent-making Writing (Workshop)
While you’re waiting to be an overnight success you still need to pay the bills. Discover untapped ways to earn money while using your writing skills. From travel to technical, or back cover copy to annual reports, there are many ways to bring in consistent income. This is an interactive brainstorming session you will not want to miss if you are looking for tent-making money to supplement or even replace your current writing income.

• Book Marketing A Through Z (Workshop)
This workshop is designed to help you understand basic book marketing principles needed to help you fulfill God's plan for your book. You'll learn from and enjoy this fast-paced, high energy brainstorming session filled with practical low-cost ideas, strategies, and case studies designed to get books into the reader's hands. We'll cover distribution, book signings, online marketing, book tours, Web sites, and much, much more. Whether you're in the process of writing the next best-seller or you're a multi-published author, “Book Marketing A Through Z” is a must attend.

YVONNE LEHMAN
Yvonne is an award-winning, best-selling author of 46 novels. She is director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, director of the Blue Ridge “Autumn in the Mountains” Novel Retreat, co-director along with Ann Tatlock of the Honored Authors of the Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival, and mentor with the Christian Writers Guild. She founded and directed the Blue Ridge Writers Conference for 17 years and has planned BRMCWC for LifeWay/Ridgecrest for the past 7 years. The first of her GraceAnn McKinney cozy mystery series, Better Latte than Never, will be released in November 2008 by Barbour Books in their Heartsong Presents Mystery Books. She earned a Master’s Degree in English from Western Carolina University and has taught English and Creative Writing. www.yvonnelehman.com.

• Writing the Inspirational Novel and Novella (Continuing Class)
Monday: “Getting Started” The easiest way to break into fiction book publishing is with a novella. We will discuss the differences and similarities of the novel, novella, and women’s fiction. There is a process to getting and developing your ideas.

Tuesday: “Picture Your Story” A storyboard can be more valuable than an outline. Yvonne will show you three different types of story boards and talk about their purpose.

Wednesday: “The Spiritual Element” This is what makes a story “inspirational.” Yvonne will show you how to develop and incorporate this into your writing.

CHIP MACGREGOR
Chip MacGregor is once again hanging around and bothering people. He made his living as a writer for years, then became an editor (serving as Senior Editor for two different CBA houses), before moving on to becoming a longtime literary agent with Alive Communications. He then spent two years as a publisher at Time-Warner...making us all wonder why he can't hold a job! These days he's keeping busy working as an agent, running MacGregor Literary, and going on endlessly about his Scottish ancestry. If you see him in a kilt, you may want to shield your eyes.

• Moving into Professional Writing (Continuing Class)
This double-session workshop is aimed at those who are doing some writing and think it’s time to move toward writing as a profession. We will not be studying craft, but instead looking at writing for profit, seeking ways to build an income stream from your writing, and moving from part-time to full-time writing. We’ll take a real-world approach to setting up your office, your schedule, and your finances. This isn’t a class of generalities—we’ll share specific information and discuss how to make a living at writing. If you’re ready to approach writing as a business, this is the place for you.

• Making a Living with Writing (Continuing Class)

DIANN MILLS
Award-winning author, DiAnn Mills, has over 40 books in print and has sold more than a million copies. Six of her anthologies have appeared on the CBA Best Seller List. Three of her books have won the distinction of Best Historical of the Year by Heartsong Presents. Five of her books have won placements through American Christian Fiction Writer’s Book of the Year Awards 2003 – 2007. She is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005 and 2007. DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope and Love, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. DiAnn is also a mentor for Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writer’s Guild.  She lives in sunny Houston, Texas, the home of heat, humidity, and Harleys. In fact she’d own a Harley, but her legs are too short. DiAnn and her husband have four adult sons and are active members of Metropolitan Baptist Church.

• Accelerating Your Writing Career (Workshop)
We all want to be published and sooner if not later, but what makes some manuscripts stand out while others are published? You can speedup the publishing process by giving your manuscript a tune-up.

• Creating Credible, Colorful Characters (Workshop)
This workshop shows the writer how to force the reader to become involved with their characters by establishing strong inner and outer landscapes. How these characters resolve conflict reveals who they are just as it reveals their strengths, weaknesses, and values. Learn how to create well-rounded characters that label your stories unforgettable. This hands-on workshop provides the writer with a character sketch and many tools to expand the characterization process.

• Boot Camp for Writers (Workshop)
This workshop is designed to teach you everything from setting up your format to the essentials of a proposal. Also information will be offered  about websites to keep the new writer on track.

TOM MORRISEY
• Writing for Men! How and Why (Continuing Class)

• Handgun Realism: How to Put Firearms in Your Story without Shooting Yourself in the Foot (Workshop)

• Unconventional Fiction – The Lesser-Known Paths to Great Story (Workshop)

• Choose your Window: How to Find your Story’s Point-of-View (Workshop)

ANE MULLIGAN
Ane Mulligan, a co-owner of the popular literary blog Novel Journey, has published over fifty plays and seven articles. She's won numerous awards in contests for unpublished novels. She served as creative arts director for The Family Church for 11 years and now serves on the board of the Sugar Hill community theater. She’s Zone Officer on the Operating Board for ACFW.
hhttp://www.anemulligan.com      http://www.noveljourney.blogspot.com http://anemulligan.blogspot.com

• Critiques of Consequence (Workshop)
A common misconception about critique groups is they strip away your individual style and voice. But that can be circumvented if you know how. This workshop offers advice on how to find critique partners, work with different genres, and how to blend your unique strengths and weaknesses to form a top-notch group. The founding members of Novel Journey and Penwrights, a critique group who has overseen several members become agented and published, will discuss the attitude necessary to give and receive critiques, how to be tough on each other and dig deep, while remaining encouraging.

CHARLENE PATTERSON
Charlene Patterson is a fiction acquisitions editor for Bethany House Publishers. She has worked in the editorial departments of Falcon Publishing/TwoDot Books, the Globe Pequot Press, Farcountry Press, and Universal Studios, and as a freelance editor and writer. Charlene is originally from Iowa, lived for five years in Montana, and currently resides in Shakopee, Minnesota. This week, Charlene would love to meet with authors who have novels that are either complete or close to being completed, especially in the following genres: historical, romance, contemporary women's fiction and chick-lit, literary, and suspense.

DAN PENWELL
Dan Penwell, a seminary graduate, former pastor, Family Christian Bookstore Manager (1972-1978), Director of Marketing/Purchasing for the Family Christian Stores (1978-1989), Manager of Product Development/Acquisitions for World Bible Publishers (1989-1996), and Hendrickson Publishers [CBD] (1996-2001). Currently, at AMG Publishers in Chattanooga, he has led AMG Publishers from 3-5 titles a year to 30-35 new titles a year. In the summer of 2005, the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) honored Dan as the Editor of the Year. He has authored has authored a number of products including: 101 Things to Do in the Year 2000 (Honor Books) and Bible Brain Quest (Workman Publishing).       Dan loves to play Fantasy Football, golf, read, and play with his golden retriever, Scout. Of course his first loves is his wife, Gloria. Dan has survived 7-1/2 years with prostate cancer and two lengthy sessions of chemotherapy—and he is doing very well at this time. PTL!!

• How to Make an Editor Sit Up and Beg for More (Workshop)
Why is the query letter the first step in making an editor sit up and take notice?  What elements are necessary in a query letter?  Why is hooking the editor immediately so important?  What are some ways that you can hook an editor (and eventually the reader) with your writing? Why is tight writing an important element of hooking an editor?  These and many more questions will be answered as your learn the strategies for getting the editor to sit up and beg for more.

• Eliminating Wordiness: Learning to Write Tight (Workshop)
Most new authors have the impression that good writing has to be flowery and full of verbiage. But good writing—the kind that editors love—is tight writing. Unnecessary words have been eliminated. The writing is compact, concise, and precise. This class will dissect different types of wordiness and offer suggestions on how to trim flabby writing. Learn tips to streamline your writing and become the type of author that editors are looking for.

CAROL PIPES
Carol Pipes is editor of On Mission magazine, the flagship publication of the North American Mission Board. The North American Mission Board (NAMB) is the domestic missions agency of the Southern Baptist Convention. Carol joined the On Mission staff in 2001. Prior to joining On Mission, she served as public relations manager for the Salvation Army’s Fort Worth Area Command. She serves on the board of directors of the Evangelical Press Association, an organization serving journalists in Christian publishing. She and her husband, Keith, live in Cumming, Georgia,

• 2008 Back to the Basics – Ten Rules to Improve Your Craft (Workshop)
In this workshop you will learn basic principles for writing and editing your own articles. You will also learn why it is recommended that you not stray too far from these principles for clear communication. This workshop presents 10 simple practices designed to improve your craft.

• VBFF – How Editors and Writers Can Be Very Best Friends Forever (Workshop)
Writers and editors can get along. This workshop will enable you to develop a relationship with your editor and become a team player as you journey toward success.

DEBORAH RANEY
Deborah Raney's first novel, A Vow to Cherish (Bethany House 1996) was the inspiration for World Wide Pictures' highly acclaimed film of the same title, now available on video and on DVD in seven languages. The novel is also newly available in an updated, expanded version, along with the sequel, Within This Circle from Steeple Hill Books. Deb's newest novel is Leaving November, the second in the Clayburn Novels series from Howard Books/Simon & Schuster. Her novella Playing by Heart was a 2004 Readers Choice Award winner, and a finalist for the Christy Award. Beneath a Southern Sky claimed the RITA award from Romance Writers of America, and A Nest of Sparrows was a finalist for the RITA, along with winning numerous other awards. Deb serves on the advisory board of American Christian Fiction Writers. She and her husband, illustrator/author Ken Raney, are the parents of four children and live in Kansas. Visit Deb's web site at http://www.deborahraney.com.

Writing Women’s Fiction (Continuing Class)
    •    Novelist Deborah Raney will walk conferees through various aspects of writing women's fiction, including social issues as a rich resource for story ideas, an overview of the publishing process, specific tips on the craft of writing women's fiction, and concluding with an in-depth Q&A session to address specific questions. This class is for women and men who want to write novels about the relationships and issues that make up the lives of contemporary women.

Author/Editor/Agent Relationships and Etiquette (Two-part workshop Monday and Tuesday afternoons)
    •    Novelist Deborah Raney will talk about the working relationship authors have with their editors and agents. Topics will include etiquette, work styles, tips for handling touchy situations, the land mine of "professional" friendships, severing a working relationship, editor/agent gifts, and a wealth of other information designed to help you work well alongside publishing industry professionals.

RAMONA RICHARDS
Ramona Richards is an editor with Thomas Nelson Publishers, and an award-winning writer and editor who has worked on more than 350 publications. She has written novels, devotional books, biographical sketches, Bible studies, short stories and nonfiction articles on a wide array of topics. As an in-house editor, she’s overseen the production of children’s books (Abingdon), a national magazine (Ideals), novels and nonfiction (Rutledge Hill Press), and Bibles, Bible reference books, religious nonfiction and curriculum (Thomas Nelson/World).

• It’s not Rocket Science, but it’s Close: Editing Popular Non-fiction Before Submission (Continuing Class)
Presenting any important subject o a lay audience in a manner that will intrigue readers, not to mention editors, is a gift—and one that’s too easily sabotaged by the very authors who know the topic best. This workshop presents tips on organizing anon-fiction book, presenting it to an insider’s vocabulary while remaining in-depth and fascinating. This is an interactive workshop, and participants will need to bring a list of possible publishers, resumes or CVs, cover letters, and at least a sample portion of a work-in-progress, including an outline, table o contents, and sample chapters.

• Small Group Victory: The Future of Curriculum in the Christian Market (Workshop)
The market for small group curriculum expands daily. The first half of the session will focus on the different types of small group curriculum and takes a close look at current trends, changes in the marketplace, and provides tips on breaking in to an extremely difficult market for writers. The second half will be interactive, with a look at a typical DVD curriculum, with time for Q&A. Note: This session does NOT address dated/Sunday school curriculum, except to make the distinction between it and small group curriculum.

• Shoot Someone: Ten Tips on Turning Your Middle from Muddle to Magnificent (Workshop)
Every novelist struggles sooner or later with a “middle malfunction.” I offer ten work-horse tips and writing exercises for revitalizing a droopy middle or jumpstarting a stalled one. The nutshell version of the list is:
1. Shoot Someone. Literally, if you have to.
2. Chart Your Course. Get out that spreadsheet program.
3. Do You See What I See? Reformat key scenes as a film script.
4. Flash Your Characters. Flash fiction, that is.
5. Start an Investigation. Put on your cop hat and get tough.
6. Dim the Lights. Take a look at your “dark moment” and make it darker.
7. Burn Your Ships. What would make your H/H eternally sever all ties to their current life?
8. Tag, You’re It. Take a key scene and remove all dialog tags.
9. Fight Club. In other words, up the stakes on the outcome of conflict.
10. Deal or No Deal? Also known as “What’s Behind Door Number 1?” Take a look at advancing the plot through “architectural suspense.”

• But I Did Not Shoot the Deputy: How Secondary Characters Can Make or Break a Novel (Workshop)
The easiest way to lose an editor’s attention is for your story to be confusing or annoying. By the time you introduce, describe, and give a life history to the twentieth secondary character, an editor is going to be both. This workshop provides tips on controlling your supporting cast: how different levels of characters should be revealed and built into the plot, explanations of how flat secondary characters can kill a sell, and tips on how to layer your characters in order to build interest and curiosity without taking over a book. Participants will be asked to bring manuscripts (either finished or in progress) and will be lead through a series of exercises using their own work.

VONDA SKELTON
Vonda Skelton is a speaker and the author of fiction, non-fiction, and plays. She has two new books out this year--Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe, a book appropriate for either small groups or as a read alone; and her third children's mystery, Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island. Vonda's articles have appeared in HomeLife, Clubhouse, Focus on Your Child, Christian Single, New Man Magazine, Family Doctor Magazine, and many others. A frequent instructor at writers conferences, she is an award-winning playwright and lyricist, and enjoys performing in church and community theater.
Vonda and her husband, Gary, have been married all their lives, and are still happy about it! www.vondaskelton.com

• How to Develop a Speaking Ministry to Women (Continuing Class)
Do you have a desire to share your experiences of life with other women? Do you have a message that will encourage, edify, or exhort? If so, perhaps God is calling you to start a speaking ministry to women. Come and explore the possibility of sharing your message of hope and healing through the spoken word. If desired, you may present a three-five minute program to the class on the last day.

• Opportunities for the Christian Writer (Workshop)
Are you good at making crafts? Can you create an object lesson or write a short skit? Editors and publishers need a variety of material. Discover the wide range of opportunities available to the Christian writer and you may be published sooner than you think!

• Taking the Question out of Query Letters (Workshop)
Do you hate writing query letters? Does it take you longer to create the letter than it does to create the piece? With this easy five-step formula, you’ll learn how to remove the query letter question—and replace it with confidence!

LES STOBBE
Currently Editor-in-Chief of the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild, Les Stobbe brings 40 years as journalist and editor to his role as consultant, literary agent and freelance writer.  He has been denominational editor, newsletter editor, book editor, curriculum editor, and president of a publishing house. He is the author or co-author of 14 books and hundreds of articles. He interviews an editor every month for the From the Springs newsletter of the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild and does the promotional writing for his church and other organizations.

• Writing Biblically for Maximum Life Impact (Workshop)
Presentation on why the story is Jesus’ preferred method of communication and what that means for the writer. Includes analyzing bestsellers of the past for how you develop the table of contents, what you put in the first chapter, second chapter, etc. He uses Chuck Swindoll’s Improving Your Serve as the model. Numerous published authors have said or written that this one workshop is responsible for their success as published authors.

• New Trends in Christian Writing (Workshop)
What do Pat Robertson and his “700 Club” have in common with Chicken Soup for the Soul? Why do Oprah Winfrey and Max Lucado attract similar loyalties? Why did 101 Stories to Warm the Heart, published by a small West Coast publisher, go through five printings the first year? What made The Book of Virtue a national bestseller? Why is a Christian romance fiction publisher able to release one new romance a week? Why do many men prefer the sports pages to the editorial pages? Let a journalist with 40 years as writer, magazine and book editor and publisher reveal how you can be part of the paradigm shift in Christian communication instead of becoming a dinosaur as a writer.

MATT STOCKMAN
Matt Stockman is a 22-year veteran of the radio industry, and over the years has helped listeners in cities such as Nashville, TN., Lynchburg, VA., Chattanooga, TN., and Philadelphia, PA. wake up every morning. He’s currently the morning show host on WMIT, 106.9 The Light, a Christian radio station owned and operated by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Over the years, Matt has been blessed with the opportunity to interview interesting and colorful personalities/dignitaries such as Nelson Mandela, Franklin Graham, James Dobson, John Grisham, Jerry Jenkins, and John Maxwell.  In addition, Matt is the founder of Matt Stockman Student Ministries/Vivid Resources, a ministry devoted to developing next generation worship leaders. Matt, his wife of 17 years Junita, and their five children live in the Western North Carolina mountains.

• Art of Being Interviewed
You’ve written your first (or latest) book, and it’s soon to be on bookshelves all across the country. A key element in your promotional/public relations effort is media interviews. In this workshop, Matt Stockman leads you through the do’s and don’ts of how to “be interviewed” well:  booking them yourself, preparing for the interview, effectively prepping the interviewer, getting to your point concisely, engaging the interviewer and their audience, and getting invited back (plus all the things NOT to do in your next book interview.) It’s “must have” knowledge and insight for new and “seasoned” writers alike.

ANN TATLOCK
Ann Tatlock is a novelist, a mentor with the Christian Writers Guild, and a co-director, along with Yvonne Lehman, of the Honored Authors of the Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival. Her books have received numerous awards, including the Christy Award and the Silver Angel Award from Excellence in Media. Most recently, her novel, “Things We Once Held Dear,” was named one of Library Journals Best Books of 2006. Ann lives with her husband and daughter in Asheville, NC.
Telling the Truth: Christian Writing in a Postmodern World (Continuing  Class)

• In postmodern America, we are experiencing one huge compassionate love-fest on the deck of the Titanic. With the loss of absolute truth and the rise of relativism, people are celebrating diversity and a myriad of custom-designed paths to God--even as the ship is rapidly sinking. How did this come about and what are the philosophies behind postmodernism? What’s the connection between this cultural phenomenon and New Age spirituality? Who is the audience that we as Christian writers are speaking to in America today? Come and find out answers to these questions, and learn how you can speak out boldly for the truth of the Gospel. This class is for both beginning and advanced writers of fiction and non-fiction.

DONN TAYLOR
Donn Taylor is a poet and novelist who holds a PhD in Renaissance literature and has 20 years’ experience teaching poetry. His poetry has appeared in Christianity and Literature, The Lamp Post (Journal of the California C. S. Lewis Society), and other journals, as well as general audience publications such as the Presbyterian Record (Canada). His poetry collection Dust and Diamond: Poems of Earth and Beyond will appear in spring 2008. He is the author of one suspense novel, The Lazarus File, and his mystery Rhapsody in Red will be released in September 2008. He has also published essays on writing, literary criticism, ethical issues, and U. S. foreign policy. In a prior incarnation, he served in two wars with the U. S. Army.

• Getting Started Writing Poetry (Workshop)
Do you want to write poetry but don't know where to start? This session provides several specific
aiming points to get you from the blank page to the completed first draft. The same fundamentals
can be used to evaluate your draft after (and only after) it is complete. Although oriented toward
the beginning poet, the discussion also presents fruitful concepts for those more experienced.

• Writing Poetry Outside the Box (Workshop)
Many poems written today have a sameness that makes one look much like another. What, then, can make a poem stand out in the flood of submissions each editor receives? This session describes and illustrates five techniques that will make your poems strikingly different from most that editors will see. These techniques will help novices and experienced poets alike.

• Broader Horizons in Poetic Technique (Workshop)
Poetry is poetry because it communicates more intensely than ordinary language. As some have said, it "speaks in higher voltage." Designed for beginners and experienced poets alike, this session illustrates how the use of certain poetic structures and techniques can "raise the voltage" of your poetry while deepening its meaning.

MATT TULLOS
Matt Tullos has been interpreting the truth of the Gospel to youth and adults through preaching, teaching, writing, drama and seminar presentations for over 20 years. He has served in five churches in the role of youth pastor, associate pastor and pastor. Matt’s works have been published by Broadman & Holman, LifeWay, Group Inc., Convention Press, Church Street Press, Genevos, and Focus on the Family. Matt and his wife Darlene are both graduates of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with Masters of Arts Degrees in Communications. Matt currently serves as editor-in-chief of “Let’s Worship” of LifeWay Church Resources. Matt and Darlene are proud parents of four sons: Isaac, Jacob, Nathan, and Caleb. Mission Statement: “God has called me to be an active participant in the warfare of grace rather than a spectator in the warfare of religion.”

• Writing for LifeWay Magazines (Continuing Class)

• Artist versus Editor (Workshop)
This workshop explores the struggle inside your brain: how to allow the creative hemisphere of your brain to create and when to allow the left brain to sharpen the work of the right brain.

• Writing Worship (Workshop)
This workshop teaches you how to develop and utilize writing in worship experiences and how to get your successful worship moments into publications.

DAVID WEBB