We are happy to present the BR2012 faculty and classes list. Below is a list of our 50 plus faculty and the classes they plan to teach. As in all such endeavors, it takes a great deal of juggling to pull together a well-rounded, top-notch set of classes. We have classes for beginners to professionals.
Class designations:
We have different styles and lengths of classes. Following each class is a descriptor such as "workshop." You'll need to know what these mean. Workshop refers to a class that covers all the intended material in a 1 hour, 15 minute sessions. Many of these will repeat through the week. Continuing Class means the subject matter is taught over 3 or 4 sessions. These deal with material that can't be covered in a single workshop session. Next.Level are classes intended for the experienced conferee. If you've attended a few conferences, then some of these classes may be for you. Next.Level classes can be workshops, continuing classes, or practicums. Speaking of practicums . . . Our Practicums are hands-on clinics. Students share their material, or work on material in classes. Some practicums have limited enrollment. Be sure to review guidelines provided by the instructor to see class requirements.
Agents
Blythe Daniel, The Blythe Daniel Agency
The Blythe Daniel Agency, Inc. is a marketing and editorial agency. Blythe Daniel has considerable experience with publishers, authors, and ministries in the branding, publicity, and literary representation of authors and strategic messages. The agency specializes in:
- Literary representation — Adult fiction, Adult non-fiction, Children's books
- Publicity campaigns — Non-fiction books, Individuals and organizations with timely messages
- Marketing campaigns — Non-fiction books, Individuals and organizations looking for a broader reach
Classes:
Marketing Your Book Before and After It’s Published (continuing class)
Many writers complete their manuscript, sigh in relief, and wait for the book to be released. Before your book is published, you need to know when and where to start in order to build interest and a following before – and after – your book is out. This workshop will explore strategies to do this and help you take charge of publicity efforts. It will give you practical tools to ensure you’re hitting the hottest places and resources to promote your book and you as an expert on your topic or genre. Participants will learn:
- How to create and maintain consistent opportunities to discuss your book through media and speaking events
- Why taking control of your publicity before the book is out is essential!
- Why the changing model of publisher-driven publicity is fading and how you can best impact your book sales.
Content Creators: You Control Where and How Your Messages Go (workshop)
You’re probably hearing more and more about content creation and management. How do you manage your content – whether it’s a book, a blog, or a digital platform?
One way writers choose to go around conventional opportunities is to “do it yourself” without the push of a big publisher or a big media organization. It’s a “self-management” style that gives authors the freedom to do what they want with their content in order to be effective in getting their message across and sell their book through blogs, online and broadcast media. Which opportunities do you pursue? How much content do you give away to your publisher? This workshop is designed to help you look at how you control your content and do more on your own to leverage creativity and financial benefits. We’ll look at how to do this with e-books, video, media, and more.
David Van Diest, D.C. Jacobson and Associates
David Van Diest, is an agent with D.C. Jacobson and Associates. He believes that the best books are yet to be published.
His path to becoming a literary agent was both surprising and inevitable. David describes himself as a late bloomer, languishing in the lower echelons of his literary courses through school, and not becoming much of a reader until he was nearly thirty. But publishing is in David’s blood, it seems: his father, John Van Diest was the original publisher at Multnomah Press and is now associate publisher of Tyndale; both sisters worked in publishing; Don Jacobson, his brother-in-law, was publisher/owner of Multnomah Publishers for nearly 20 years; David’s wife, Sarah, has been a literary agent for a number of authors; and even his wife’s brother, Jeff Gerke, is an author and publisher.
Since starting in publishing in 1988 David has worked directly with many leading Christian publishers, ministries, and bestselling authors Max Lucado, Karen Kingsbury, and Chuck Swindoll. He’s worn a variety of hats in the past 20+ years, including marketing director, vice president of sales and literary agent. While in marketing at Multnomah, David wrote the marketing plan for a little book called The Prayer of Jabez, which surprised everyone by selling over 10 million copies.
Today, David continues in the publishing industry because of his passion to help everyone understand the un-surpassing greatness of God’s love expressed through His Son Jesus’ free gift of grace, and to help Christians mature in Him through continued growth.
Classes:
A View from the Inside (workshop)
Diana Flegal, Hartline Literary Agency
Past Editorial Assistant to Joyce Hart for six years, and an agent for three, Diana represents Inspirational Fiction and Non Fiction in both the CBA and General Markets. Diana has been a medical missionary to Haiti, a women's speaker and Bible study leader and majored in Missions and Anthropology at Bible College. One of her life's highlights has been teaching apologetics to high school students as preparatory for college. Diana now lives in beautiful Asheville North Carolina.
Dr. Chip MacGregor, MacGregor Literary
Chip MacGregor is the president of MacGregor Literary, Inc., a full-service literary agency that works in both CBA as well as the general market. Chip has been working in the publishing industry for three decades, and made his living as a freelance writer and editor for several years. He is the author of numerous books, including a couple of bestselling nonfiction titles, and formerly served as a publisher with Time-Warner Book Group. He began working as an agent fifteen years ago, and has represented hundreds of titles. The authors he represents have won every major CBA writing award, and their books have been on all the bestseller lists -- New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, LA Times, Amazon, the CBA and ECPA lists, and one title he represented hit #1 on the New York Times list. Six years ago he began his own literary agency, and over the past two years he has consistently been the busiest literary agent in the United States. He works with both fiction and nonfiction titles, but the majority of the business he is currently doing is fiction. Chip has an undergraduate degree from Portland State University, a master's from Biola University, did doctoral work at the University of Oregon, and some post-doc work at Oxford University. A well-known speaker at writing conferences and via online writing sites, he lives on the Oregon coast.
WHAT HE IS LOOKING FOR: Well-written commercial novels for the Christian or general market. He is open to seeing women's fiction, romance, thrillers, romantic suspense, historical, literary, and Amish fiction. The most important aspect in evaluating a proposal is the writing quality. For MacGregor Literary to seriously consider your work, you'll need to have a completed manuscript.
Classes:
What's your brand? And how can branding help you grow your writing career? In this one-hour workshop, longtime literary agent Chip MacGregor will explore the meaning and benefits of branding, then help you know how you can define, research, evaluate, and launch your brand as an author. This workshop will prove most helpful to authors who know their writing voice and have a good sense of what they want to write. Chip has taught on this topic at conferences around the country, and it has always proven to be fun and helpful.
Finding and Working with an Agent (workshop)
What is the role of an agent in today's changing publishing climate, and how does a writer go about finding one? In this workshop we'll explain what an agent does (and doesn't do), explore methods for researching and approaching agents, and discuss what a healthy author/agent relationship looks like. Chip has been a literary agent for almost 15 years, and has been one of the busiest agents in the United States, so he knows how to talk about agenting roles and relationships. But Chip is also an author, and understands the problem authors face: "Publishers won't talk to me unless I have an agent, but agents won't talk with me until I'm published!" So come join us, bring your questions, and let's try to create a realistic plan for finding and working with a literary agent who is a fit for you.
Can I Really Make a Living at This? (workshop)In today's publishing economy, is it realistic to think an author can earn a livable wage with his or her writing? If you've never heard longtime literary agent Chip MacGregor talk about making a living, or read his "MacGregor Theory," you may not know that his writings on this subject have been endorsed and repeated by a wide array of sources. In this workshop you will examine the methods used by writers to make money, delve into practical ideas for generating income, and explore practices the best writers use for creating a personal organization system. If you have interest in making money through your writing, this is the workshop to attend.
The Basics of Contract Negotiation (Next.Level workshop)
What do you need to know before you sign that publishing contract? Why do they have all that legalese in the wording? And what's a "force majeure," anyway? In this workshop, we will look into the essential elements of a publishing contract, then explore proven methods for negotiating a contract. When you sign a contract, you're making a legal promise and agreeing to a series of clauses that will govern your work for as long as it's in print. Looked at that way... it would be nice to know what you're signing and how to talk about it with your publisher. So come listen to an agent who has contracted more than a thousand books in his career.
Shannon Potelicki, MacGregor Literary [Added 3-16-12]
Shannon Potelicki is the International Rights Specialist at MacGregor Literary. She also reviews submissions, performs research, and handles special projects for the literary agency. A graduate of Taylor University's acclaimed Professional Writing program, Shannon earned the Jerry B. Jenkins Annual Writing Scholarship, completed an editorial internship with Focus on the Family, and has had her byline published in a variety of online and print publications.
Les Stobbe, Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency
Les Stobbe is a literary agent, the executive editor of The Christian Writers Guild and one of its mentors, and former Journalist in Residence at Gordon College, Wenham, MA. He also serves as Director of International Christian Writers.
The founding editor of the Mennonite Observer in Winnipeg, Les Stobbe served as editor at Christian Life Publications, editorial director of Cambridge Publishers (Canadian business magazines), Moody Press Books, Christian Herald Books and Book Clubs, and Here's Life Publishers Ltd., and managing editor of curriculum for Scripture Press. For seven years he served as president of Here's Life Publishers. His most recent full-time position was as Vice President of Communications and Marketing at the Evangelistic Association of New England (now Vision New England). He is author or co-author of 14 books and has written more than 700 published articles. Recipient of Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference award for probably having published more first-time authors than anyone else. Recipient of the Partnership Award from The Word Guild of Canada for his significant contributions to Canadian writers who are Christian and The R.A. Torrey Award for Outstanding Service as a Publishing Pioneer.
Classes:
Practicum on Writing a Proposal (continuing class)
Proposals are the road map for successfully interesting an editor--and then the Pub Board. This will be hands-on and will help you develop a proposal for a specific book project on which you are working. By a former acquisitions editor and president of a publishing house and now an 18-year veteran as literary agent. Bring your proposal. This is a three class, hands-on experience.
Editors
Kim Bangs, Regal Books
Kim Bangs has twenty years of experience in publishing. Currently, she is the Author Relations/Contract Manager for the Regal Books, as well as a member of the acquisitions team. She has had the privilege to work with Dennis and Barbara Rainey, Holly Wagner, Jim Burns, Gloria Gaither, Lisa Harper, Josh McDowell, Gary Smalley, Michelle McKinney Hammond, Karen O’Connor and many others. Kim enjoys working with authors to provide resources that touch hearts, change lives, and open conversation with others
Classes:
Non-Fiction Writing: From Idea to Print & Beyond (continuing class)
“Let’s start at the very beginning…a very good place to start.” In this track we’ll start with the creative idea and move forward discussing details of publishing, platform, proposals and process that can lead to print. Active, interactive, reflective with a few surprises along the way.
What an Acquisition Editor Wants (workshop)
Ten things…just ten things. That’s all. Discover the Top Ten List of an Acquisition Editor. These ten tips will make your efforts as a potential author much more effective.
Show and Tell in Living Color (workshop)
Telling = reporting facts; showing = an eyewitness sharing the experience
Most of us grew up excited to participate in show and tell in our early school years. Guinea pigs, newly lost teeth, creative art work were some of what we experienced. Now that we are grown up, how do we use show and tell in our writing? How and when can they be used most effectively? Jesus used show and tell throughout His ministry and we can too! This interactive workshop will equip you to be fully prepared for your turn at "show and tell."
Since we are out of the black and white world, we’ll also talk about adding color to our show and tell. Color shows in how we talk, the things we do and even in how we think. Writing provides an opportunity to add color to the world through the words used, the tone of those words and how the words are blended. Come learn how natural "color" is—it is within you, it cannot be stopped.
Why Shouldn’t I Self Publish? (workshop)
We live in a world of multiple options for almost everything and publishing is certainly no exception. There are many ways to get a book published but which is the best choice for your work and for your hopes and dreams? We’ll discuss when and if there is a time self-publishing is the answer, the challenges self-publishing can cause in career development and the benefits (yes, there are many) of working with a traditional (which is being redefined ongoingly!) publishing house.
Sue Brower, Zondervan Publishing
The Perfect Ending (workshop) [Added 2-14-12]
So much of our emphasis is put into creating an electrifying first line and first chapter of a novel; we often lose sight on how we leave the reader at the end of a book. A recent experience at a movie has challenged my thinking on what really leaves the reader satisfied when the closing credits start to role. Do they want every last detail of the future of their characters played out on the screen? Or are they satisfied knowing that the character made it through this conflict alive, hopeful, and ready to move on? What is the difference in leaving the reader unsatisfied and wanting more detail and leaving them satisfied and allowing them to imagine their own mental picture of the character’s future? If writing a book series, how do you finish the story and still leave the reader “at the edge of the cliff?” While there are no hard and fast rules for ending a story, there are techniques for leaving the reader satisfied but hungry for more. What can be better for a Perfect Ending?
Michelle Cox, (feature articles, nonfiction books) (updated 5-3-12)
Michelle Cox writes the feature articles and general assignments for WHOA Magazine for Women. She is a speaker, songwriter, scriptwriter, and the author of seven books. She’s written for groups like Focus on the Family, Product Concept, Cracker Barrel, and The Buntin Group. Michelle is the creator of the Just 18 Summers brand which will feature books, films (with Elevating Entertainment), music (with Lamon Records), and other products. She’s been a guest on numerous radio and television programs, is on faculty for writing and media conferences, has taught webinars for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild, and designed book trailers for Tentmakers Entertainment. Whew, she’ll figure out what she wants to do eventually! She’s been married to her favorite—and only—husband, Paul, for almost 38 years. They have three grown sons and five perfect grandchildren—including brand-new twin grandbabies. Visit her at www.michellecoxinspirations andwww.simplelittlewords.com.
Classes:
Maximize Your Conference Experience (workshop)
You’ve registered for the conference, booked the hotel, and made your travel arrangements. Next you’ll pack your clothes and your dreams as you head to Ridgecrest—but are you really ready for the conference? Join me for “Maximize Your Conference Experience” for tips on talking with editors, maximizing publisher appointments, choosing classes, and other suggestions that will make your conference experience fun and productive.
The Writer’s Diet (continuing class)
Have you ever been on a diet? Yes? Then you’ve already learned some traits that will help you on your writing journey. Dieting and writing both require discipline, sacrifice, acknowledging that you need help, and a conscious choice to get started. Both efforts go better when partnered with prayer and support from others—and the results are so worthwhile. So fasten your easily expandable belt, and join me for tips and suggestions to feed your writing habit. And yes, we will have chocolate.
But Wait . . . That’s Not All! (workshop)
Do you have an idea for a nonfiction book but you’d like to broaden your audience or develop it into a series of books? Could you use a better title or do you need help in shaping the book? Join me for a fun interactive session where we’ll brainstorm together and kick things up a notch. A brain is required for this workshop. Feel free to borrow one if necessary. That’s what I plan to do. *Warning! Intense creativity will occur at this session.
Dr. Vicki Crumpton, Revell/Baker Publishing
Vicki Crumpton, Executive Editor for Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, has over twenty years of publishing experience. A recipient of AWSA’s Editor of the Year award, she has acquired a number of award finalists and winners, as well as several New York Times bestsellers, including 90 Minutes in Heaven. She holds an M. Div. and Ph.D. from Southwestern Seminary and works from her home in Western Kentucky.
Classes:
John Van Diest, associate publisher Tyndale House
In 40 years of Christian publishing, John has done nearly everything ─ including authoring and co-authoring a dozen books as well as publishing notable authors such as Max Lucado, Dr. James Dobson, Bruce Wilkinson, Chuck Swindoll and Karen Kingsbury. John’s passion for publishing has led him to share Christ in written form around the globe and he is presently associate publisher with Tyndale House Publishers and lives with his wife, Patsy in Oregon.
Classes:
Secrets of Getting Published (Workshop)
Ten Top Things I've Learned (and am still learning) from Nearly 40 Years of Publishing (Workshop)
Andrea Gutierrez, Thriving Family magazine
Andrea Gutierrez is a senior associate editor for Thriving Family magazine published by Focus on the Family. In addition to her everyday responsibilities of assigning and editing articles for the print magazine, she also gets to dream big and think about publishing as it relates to the digital space. During her time at Focus on the Family, she has also been a staff editor for the “Focus on Your Child” newsletters, Focus on the Family magazine, and worked as an editorial assistant for Breakaway magazine. When she’s not working, Andrea likes to show up at yard sales and rifle through boxes of castoffs just for the sport of it. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado with her husband, Josh, and two daughters.
Classes:
What You Can Learn About a Magazine, Page By Page (workshop)
(Beginning to Intermediate Writers) Have you ever submitted what you felt was a brilliant piece of writing, only to have magazine editors turn down your manuscript? By learning to dissect a magazine before submitting a manuscript, you can pinpoint what you may be doing wrong. Studying a publication to learn more about its audience, focus and style will give you the insight you need to submit manuscripts that editors will love.
The Changing Magazine Market (workshop)
(Beginning to Intermediate Writers) Think beyond the 8 1/2 x 11 page. Understand how a tablet version, Webzine, app and print magazine work together and how it relates to you. Editors at bigger publishing houses need more than a way to understand what you are pitching. They want a multi-media package. So what’s a writer to do? Come to this workshop for an eye-opening, cutting-edge description—print and digital—about the changing market. And learn where you fit into it.
Eddie Jones, Christian Devotions Ministries/Lighthouse of the Carolinas Publishing
Eddie is a North Carolina-based writer and book consultant. He is Acquisition Editor of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and has written over a hundred articles that have appeared in 20 different publications. His is a three-time winner of the Delaware Writers Conference and his Middle Grade / Tween novel, The Curse of Captain LaFoote, won the 2011 Selah Award in Young Adult fiction. Eddie co-writes the He Said, She Said devotions, available at Christian Devotions Ministry. His romantic suspense, Bahama Breeze, remains a "blessed seller" from Harbour Light Books. Look for Eddie's Middle Grade / Tween novel, Dead Man's Hand, from Zonderkids in the fall of 2012.
http://www.facebook.com/EddieJonesHumor
https://twitter.com/EddieJonesHumor
Our publishing Twitter account https://twitter.com/LighthouseBook
Classes:
Plotting Your Publishing Career (continuing class)
Why A Small Press Could Be Your Best Route to Publishing Success (session 1)
In this session we will explore the path to a profitable writing carrer via traditional (not self-pub), royalty-paying independent book publishers (Indies). Learn how eBooks, Print On Demand and book distribution into Christian bookstores can lead to regular royalty checks. We will examine sales figures, royalty profit statements, and discuss the risks and benefits associated with signing a book contract with an indie publisher.
Amazing Results with Amazon (session 2)
In this session we'll show you how to manipulate Amazon.com to your advantage. Topics include: Kindle submission, the Pros / Cons of Kindles KDP Select program, how to use your Amazon author profile page to create buzz for your books, ways to garner positive Amazon reviews, how to add your blog to your Amazon profile page, where to find your Nelson print sales numbers (how many books you're selling and where), how to upload a book trailer to your book's Amazon page, and much more.
One Book, Two Books, Three Books, More! (session 3)
One book is fine and two books are better, but all that writing and editing is hard work. Learn how to collaborate with others and become the EDITOR of a series of books. In this class we will show you how to solicit stories and testimonies from others (even non-writers!) and teach you the top five ways you, as book editor, can write more, sell more, and help more people through a series of compilation books. Begin to build buzz, grow your readership base, and garner interviews before your book launches.
Pulling it all together in a hands-on class with student participation (session 4)
Bring your laptop or tablet and let's create those accounts, draft those emails (to endorsers, book-compilation-writers and editors), and jump start your career BEFORE you leave the conference!
Terri Kalfas, Hensley Publishing
Terri Kalfas has been with Hensley Publishing for over 20 years. Before that she wored 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.
Classes:
Writing Bible Studies for Publications (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 your pitch your project or send off your manuscript. Learn what to include in your study, how to put your message on paper, who your marker really is, and what editors consider as they evaluate your work.
Susan King, The Upper Room
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 forThe Institute of Scriptural Psychology, and wrote magazine features as a freelance writer.
Susan is married to her high-school sweetheart, Joe, who plans to work at the conference as a volunteer again this year. Their three children (and spouses) have so far produced only two grandchildren (both perfect, of course) whom Susan babysits after work two days a week until one of their parents gets home. The rest of Susan and Joe’s family consists of their tuxedo cat, Precious, and their schnoodle-ese, Puppy.
Classes:
Right from the Start (continuing class)
Do you want to write with such sparkle and verve that editors will clamor to publish your work? Do you want them to be falling all over themselves to publish your submission and then clamoring for anything you plan to write in the future?
A crash course in excellent writing for any genre, this class will focus on the essentials for writing for the Christian market and specific do’s and don’ts in writing devotionals. Participants will come away with concrete tools for self-editing to produce polished works that will attract both readers and editors.
Karen Moore, President of Turning Up the Light
I’ve been in and around publishing for a number of years, serving as Children’s Book Manager at David Cook, Senior Editor and Publisher in the Bible Division at Thomas Nelson and as an acquisitions editor. Recently, I’ve acquired books in the areas of ministry and non-fiction. I’m the author of over fifty children’s books and gift books and devotionals, and I’ve developed licensed properties. I also teach the craft of greeting card writing. I’ve been honored to be a keynote speaker at writing conferences and a mentor for authors and other aspiring artists.
I have a Master’s Degree in Education and have taught English in grade schools and in colleges. I’ve been part of the greeting card industry for years and helped to create the original Care Bears and have written over 8000 greeting cards, including the first Chicken Soup for the Soul greeting card line and the first Hugs Greeting Card line. I served as a new product development consultant for Dayspring Cards and for Blessings and Designs in Costa Rica. I love creative opportunities and continually seek them in my work today.
I have learned to listen with my heart, to write with compassion and to filter out what’s important. In that regard, I’m so happy to work with you and help you create a new opportunity for your talents.
Classes:
Gift Books and Devotional Writing (continuing class)
We’ll look at what a gift book is, how to develop a gift book proposal, how to create a great devotional book or book series, and how to get the attention of gift book and devotional book publishers. Learn the best ways to tap into this specialty market with someone who has published and sold over a half million gift and devotional books.
- Session One—Defining a gift book, Worthy Topics, Finding Your Voice
- Session Two—Knowing your audience, Principles and Practices of Gift and Devotional writing
- Session Three—What publishers look for, Where’s the gift?, Persistence and networking, A bit about the publishing process
- Session Four—Creating a gift book proposal, Finding the right niche, Spin off and series ideas
Greeting Card Writing (continuing class)
Discover the opportunity of writing for greeting card markets. We’ll look at what is going on in the market today, what writing styles and products await your talents, and what you can do to approach the publishers. As a long time veteran of the greeting card industry, a writer currently working with several houses, and someone who has published over 8000 greeting cards, I can help you reach this market.
- Session One—Industry Overview, Some History, and Gathering Ideas
- Session Two—Writing Styles, Occasions, What works and why, and a Little Hands on Practice
- Session Three—Culture and Trends, Publishers, Submitting ideas, Keeping Track
Kim Moore, Harvest House
Kim Moore, a senior editor at Harvest House Publishers, has been in publishing for 16 years. Though she has a passion for fiction, Kim works with both fiction and nonfiction authors, including Mindy Starns Clark, Lori Copeland, Lysa TerKeurst, and Stormie Omartian. Kim is owned by three gorgeous cats, and she and her housemates make their home in the green and beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Ramona Richards, Abingdon Press
An award-winning writer, editor, and speaker with more than 25 years experience, Ramona Richards is the Senior Acquisitions Editor for Abingdon Press. She’s edited more than 350 publications and has worked with such publishers as Thomas Nelson, Barbour, Howard/Simon & Schuster, and Harlequin, and many others.
The author of 8 books and a frequent contributor to devotional collections, Ramona has written sales training videos, feature film scripts, novels, gift books, Bible studies, biographies, cookbooks, and magazine articles. An avid live music fan, Ramona loves Nashville, which she’s called home since she was 10.
Classes:
10 Tips to Winning an Editor’s Heart (and Signature on a Contract) (workshop)
This “Top Ten” countdown focuses on what editors and agents look for in a prospective writer’s work and attitude. Drawn from 30 years’ experience as a professional editor, this is practical advice presented with humor and (I hope) wisdom.
Perfect Pitch: 10 Tips on Selling in 50 Words or Less (workshop)
Ten suggestions that will help you perfect your “elevator pitch.” These will help you refine the high concept in your book and suggest ways to practice. Finally, they’ll help you eliminate those inevitable nerves when approaching an editor and make the best of your ten-minute session. Bring those pitches with you!
Next.Level: A Lady to Love: Turning Your Heroine’s GMC into an Irresistible ARC (continuing class)
This advanced craft workshop takes an intensive look at the character development that will turn your heroine from engaging to unforgettable. Participants will be asked to bring a description of an unforgettable heroine from the movies and a description of their own heroine, along with sample dialogue and description passage from their own novel.
Dina Sleiman, WhiteFire Publishing
Dina Sleiman writes lyrical stories that dance with light. Most of the time you will find this Virginia Beach resident reading, biking, dancing, or hanging out with her husband and three children, preferably at the oceanfront. Since finishing her Professional Writing MA in 1994, she has enjoyed many opportunities to teach literature, writing, and the arts. She was the Overall Winner in the 2009 Touched by Love contest for unpublished authors. Her debut novel, Dance of the Dandelion, is now available at amazon and other online and ebook distributors. Dina is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of The Steve Laube Agency. She is also an acquisitions editor with WhiteFire Publishing. Join her as she discovers the unforced rhythms of grace. For more info visit her at http://dinasleiman.com
Cindy Sproles, Christian Devotions Ministries
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She has cofounded ChristianDevotions.us and cowrites the popular He Said, She Said devotions with Eddie Jones. Cindy teaches at Christian Writers Conferences and ladies retreats and ladies conferences across the country. Visit her at www.cindysproles.com
Classes:
Writing as Ministry, Excellence in Serving (continuing class)
In this continuing class conferees will address the “insiders” view of a conference.
Day one - We will address writing as a ministry in day one and offer new writers a long list of ways to grow their portfolio while writing to serve Christ.
Day two - conferees will get the common mistakes writers make including, person, point of view, dialogue and tags. We address how to find these mistakes and how to repair them.
Day three - works on the basics of submitting work; from items as simple as putting your name on your work to developing a query, proposal and how to submit them even to email and blog sites.
Writing as a Ministry, Excellence in Serving will help new conferees enjoy their conference experience by giving them a heads up on what everyone else assumes they know and guide them in how their writing in not only a gift from God but also a ministry.
Say What? Knowing the Publishing Lingo (workshop)
Many times conferees walk into a conference and feel as though they entered a foreign country without a translator. This one day workshop will focus on writing and publishing jargon familiarizing conferees with those initials they hear, such as POV, GWS, RUE. They’ll learn publishing terms such as first rights, queries, cover letters, lead time, pay on publication and even proposals etc. Once you understand the lingo things fall into place and you can roll through a conference confident and comfortable.
Writers
Michele Adams, (children's, freelance)
Michelle Medlock Adams is an Indiana University Journalism School graduate, an award-winning newspaper and magazine writer and the author of 48 books, earning first-place merits from the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Hoosier State Press Association to name a few. Michelle’s Christian Living book, “Living the Love Chapter” earned her the title of “Writer of the Year” at the 2001 Write-to-Publish Conference in Wheaton, Illinois. And, her picture book, “Conversations On the Ark” earned her the “Barnes & Noble Texas Author of the Month” honor in May 2003. In 2011, Michelle’s three latest children’s books, “Happy Birthday, Jesus!” "One Boy, One Stone, One God!" and “My Big Book of Prayers” were released by Ideals Children’s Books. When not working on her own assignments, Michelle ghostwrites books, articles and web copy for some of today’s most effective and popular ministers. In fact, she helped pen a New York Times Bestseller in 2008. Michelle is also a much sought after teacher at writers’ conferences and universities around the nation, and she loves speaking to women’s groups, youth groups, and congregations, encouraging others to follow after God and discover their destinies in Him. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeff, and they have two teenage daughters, Abby and Ally; two miniature long-haired dachshunds, Miller and Mollie Mae; and a kitten named Mia. The Adams family resides in Bedford, IN., where they cheer on the Bedford North Lawrence Stars, the Indiana University Hoosiers and the Indianapolis Colts with great enthusiasm. www.michellemedlockadams.com
Classes:
From Rejection to Publication (workshop)
After being in this business for more than 20 years, Michelle has enough rejection letters to wallpaper most of her home. But, that's all a part of the process. In this session, she encourages writers to keep on keeping on by helping them "read between the lines" of their rejection letters; use the letters to their advantage; and finally, turn that rejection slip into a contract.
Making It as a Magazine Writer (workshop)
When the well runs dry, how can writers generate articles that will sell? How can they tap into new markets? How can they re-market what they've already written? Those are just some of the questions she addresses in this practical session.
Start Making Money Now! (Continuing Class)
Of course, you're not in this for the money. But, hey, why not make some money and minister through your writing? In this comprehensive class, you'll discover various places to sell your writing (newspapers, magazines, trade journals, the Internet, greeting cards, ad copy, etc); how to find those places; and how to approach those places. You'll also learn how to organize your time to maximize your earning and ministry potential. Next, you'll explore the area of book writing, covering a lot of ground including: ghostwriting, children's writing, devotional writing and nonfiction book writing. Finally, you'll learn those "tricks of the trade," that will increase your chances of selling your work on a consistent basis. Join Michelle for a practical, fast-moving, ever-so-fun and way-too-many-handouts kind of comprehensive class. She's saving your seat!
Finding Your Freelance Niche in the Marketplace. Michelle has three words for you—Specialize, specialize, specialize! Are you an expert at something? Are you passionate about a particular hobby or interest? Then, you're on your way to carving out a freelance niche in today's competitive marketplace. Come to this Session and get on the path to publication and compensation!
Am I Ready To Freelance Full-time? In this session, full-time freelance journalist and author Michelle Medlock Adams discusses what it takes to become a full-time freelance writer. When Michelle quit her "day job" in December 1999 to pursue a freelance writing career, she also left behind that wonderful, regular paycheck. After being on her own for more than a decade, she's learned many lessons that she will share in this discussion. Specifically, she'll cover: how to prepare to launch out; how to find writing gigs; how to keep clients coming back; and how to enjoy the journey.
Become An Idea Machine! Article ideas. Book ideas. Short story ideas. Where do they come from, and how can we find them? In this session, we'll discuss where to find good ideas; what to do with those ideas once you've discovered them; how to turn those ideas into marketable articles/books; and how to find publications to buy them. Bring your ideas, a notebook, some chocolate for me, and we'll have a brainstorming session that's guaranteed to produce sellable stuff!
The Guide to Collaborative Writing: Helping Others Write Their Message! (Workshop)
Maybe having your name on the cover of a book or at the top of an article isn't that important to you. No, you'd rather help others get their life-changing messages into the world. If you feel called to help your pastor turn his messages into books, or if you've always wanted to ghostwrite books and articles for celebrities and popular personalities—this session is for you! Learn to write effectively in someone else's voice.
Dr. Joseph Bentz (novel, nonfiction books)
Dr. Joseph Bentz is published in both fiction and non-fiction, with four novels and three non-fiction books. His next book, scheduled for release on September 1, 2012, is called Pieces of Heaven: Recognizing the Presence of God (Beacon Hill Press). He is a professor of English at Azusa Pacific University in Southern California, where he teaches courses in writing and American literature. Among the awards his books have received, his second novel, A Son Comes Home (Bethany House, 1999; republished by Randall House, 2007) won the Silver Angel Award, was selected for the Guideposts Book Club, and was chosen as one of the Top Ten Christian novels of the Year by Booklist magazine.
Bentz is a regular book reviewer for CBA Retailers + Resources magazine, which covers the Christian book industry, and he has published hundreds of other articles in magazines, journals and newspapers. He is a scholar of American novelist Thomas Wolfe, a native of Asheville, North Carolina, who immortalized the Blue Ridge area in such novels as Look Homeward, Angel (1929) and Of Time and the River (1935). Bentz is Articles Editor of The Thomas Wolfe Review. He has a Ph.D. and M.A. in American literature from Purdue University and a B.A. in English from Olivet Nazarene University. More information about his books and speaking can be found at www.josephbentz.com.
Classes
Next.Level Nonfiction Book (practicum, continuing class) [Updated 4-20-12]
For writers with a non-fiction book in mind or one in progress, this 9-hour workshop combines specific critique with helpful instruction on key aspects of the writing and marketing of non-fiction books. The class is limited to 10 writers, who will be asked to submit portions of their writing project to the instructor and the rest of the group for critique ahead of the conference. The works-in-progress may be in various stages, from fragments to a completed draft.
Using a time-tested format, the instructor will lead the group through a discussion of the critiques during some class sessions. Other sessions will feature instruction, handouts and discussions on issues such as:
• Writing a first chapter that propels the reader into the rest of the book.
• Effectively using certain techniques of fiction to bring concepts to life.
• Understanding the particular demands and nuances of various non-fiction genres.
• Building a platform for your writing.
• Learning from good examples of query letters and book proposals.
By April 28, writers interested in this workshop should email 10-12 double-spaced pages of their manuscript, along with a 1-2-page overview of their project, to the instructor at jbentz@apu.edu. Writers in this workshop will also receive submissions of the other participants, which they will be expected to critique ahead of the conference. This practicum will accept new participants until it is full.
Caleb Jennings Breakey is self-conscious about writing in the third person. He thinks it's a little weird. But he should still tell you that he's a writer, youth mentor, social media guru, and crazy lover of Jesus. The best thing Caleb has going for him—aside from his Crocs, of course—is his passion. He dares people to sleep in his classes and cries if they actually do.
He has been married to his sweetheart and fellow writing warrior, Brittney, for four years. They teach writing and Christ-like character at high schools, colleges, and conferences throughout the country. Please email Caleb somethin’ snarky at: calebbreakey@gmail.com.
Classes:
Beat Resistance and Write Like Crazy (continuing class)
This continuing track is not about writer's block. You'll eradicate writer's block from your life in the first 25 minutes of class. Instead, this round table of serious writers is about RESISTANCE—our greatest nemesis. Steven Pressfield, author of The War of Art, says there's a secret that real writers know that wannabe writers don't, and the secret is this: "It's not the writing part that's hard. What's hard is sitting down to write. What keeps us from sitting down is Resistance."
Come happy or angry, strong or weak, hungry or starved. We'll kick and claw at Resistance with every tool and technique known to man. And together we WILL learn to write productively and focus ferociously—for our writing demands nothing less.
Pitch Your Work Like A Pro (continuing class, practicum)
The point of appointments with agents and editors is to get scary publishing people to say: "Send me your work." The point of this workshop is to make sure you hear those four exhilarating words. You'll learn to deliver a professional, 1-minute pitch that makes your work-in-progress pop with poise and clarity. You'll also hone your appointment presence and tone of voice, as these traits alone can get you a request. NOTE: Depending on the number of attendees, extra time will be allotted for going over your one-sheet or proposal.
This class is hands-on and requires that you get vulnerable about your work and body language. In doing so, you’ll make the necessary changes to your story, replace anxiety with confidence, and snatch the attention of agents and editors who long to be fascinated.
Build a Thriving Critique Group (workshop)
It’s been said that most critique groups fail or—even worse—waste your time. Why? That’s what this workshop tackles. Along with the dos/don’ts of critiquing, you’ll learn the practical and out-of-the-box methods that ignite a thriving critique group.
Create an Unforgettable Lead Character (workshop)
It doesn’t matter how unique the plot, setting, or theme. Without an unforgettable lead character, the story isn’t worth reading. That’s why this class draws from the best minds in character creation today to produce a one-stop, power-packed workshop designed to churn out an unforgettable protagonist. Expect an interactive environment and several in-class exercises.
Daniel F. Case, (broadcasting)
Over his 39-year career in broadcasting, Daniel F. Case has worked in every facet of radio. In fact, at one point he was simultaneously the Chief Engineer, Local Sales Manager, Afternoon Drive Host, Production Director, Assistant Janitor and 50% of the sales force at a small-town radio station in Pennsylvania. He would have been the receptionist too, but he didn’t have the legs for it (and couldn’t type fast enough, either).
Dan stumbled into the writing world while doing daily radio commentaries on a station in St. Louis. After a couple of stunning embarrassments, he decided to write his commentaries in advance, and when he left that station two years later he found he couldn’t stop writing. He still can’t quit, even though he’s tried. His publishing credits include Christian Single, Marriage Partnership, Spirit Magazine and several regional magazines and newspapers.
For the past few years, Dan has focused exclusively on learning the art and craft of fiction. In 2008, Dan won First Place in the ACFW Genesis contest (Contemporary Fiction) and is now focused on Upper Middle Grade/Lower YA Fiction.
Dan lives in Little Rock, Arkansas with his wife Sharon and the three cats who employ them. He continues to support his writing habit by working as Director of Engineering/IT for the Little Rock market of Cumulus Media, Inc. When not writing, wrangling electrons or playing with techie toys, he enjoys torturing fine hardwood with power tools in his woodworking shop.
Radio is a visual media—the pictures are in your listener’s heads. If you want the right results from your radio interview, you need to paint the right picture.
In this class, 39-year radio veteran Daniel F. Case shares inside information about the broadcasting industry and how to make the most of those on-air moments, including:
- How to find interview opportunities
- Little things that make a BIG difference in how you sound on-the-air
- How to prepare for an interview
- Do’s and Don’ts for telephone and in-studio interviews
- How to be the interview everyone wants
- Five ways authors waste time and money trying to get on the radio
Mary Denman, (photographer)
Mary Denman is a writer who also loves photography. Or a photographer who loves writing. As a freelance writer, Mary has had articles published in various forms ranging from Focus on the Family publications to magazines to devotions to op-ed pieces. She has also completed her first novel and started her second. She's a member of several professional writing organizations including ACFW, My Book Therapy, and Word Weavers.
As a professional photographer, Mary has had photos published in both print literature and online. Her shots have been used by businesses and by fellow authors alike. Her philosophy is to catch a moment that reflects God’s beauty and creativity, whether in nature, in life or in the face of her subjects. And as a writer herself, she understands what authors need in a headshot. Mary blends the two mediums of writing and photography on her blog. www.marydenman.blogspot.com.
Classes:
Photography 101 (workshop)
Come and learn the basics of photography that will instantly improve your pictures. Learn to frame shots, the rules of thirds and so much more. And there will be chocolate.
Viewing Life through the Lens of a Camera (continuing class)
Bring your camera for a hands-on class about photography and about how to use your shots for blogging, ministry and more. We will spend time actually walking around the campus taking shots, learning about perspective and how we can use this gift to further our message.
And yes, there will be chocolate. But feel free to bring chocolate if you have a special kind you’d like to share!
Lynette Eason, (novels)
Best-selling, award-winning author, Lynette Eason has written/contracted twenty novels, including Too Close to Home and A Killer Among us, both of which hit CBA’s bestseller list. Lynette writes for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line and Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. She has won several awards and was a 2011 finalist in the prestigious Carol Awards Contest. Lynette is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). She enjoys teaching at writing conferences all over the country when she’s not working on her next suspense novel. She and her husband and their two children make their home in South Carolina.
Classes:
Writing and Family: Balance, juggling act, or just a circus? (workshop)
For most writers, writing is not optional. It’s something we must do or we feel like something is missing. And yet, we don’t want our family to feel deprived. So we feel pulled in different directions, yanked one way, pushed another. And none of it leads to the seat in front of the computer. Come learn some tricks to working around that—and still get eight hours of sleep a night. Lynette will offer tips and tricks to writing during the down time (and you do have some even if you don’t yet recognize it), how to cook supper and write, and other writing time tricks. Wife, mother of two (one child who is homeschooled) and CBA Bestselling author, Lynette, had five books released in 2011. You can do it, too!
Subtexting: What do your characters REALLY mean. (Next.Level, continuing class)
Contests? Are they for me? (workshop)
Eva Marie Everson, (novels, nonfiction books)
Eva Marie Everson is an award-winning author of both fiction and nonfiction as well as an award-winning national and international speaker. She has worked closely with Israel Ministry of Tourism to bring Christian pilgrims and journalists to The Land of the Bible, teaches at writers conferences across the US and, in 2011, served as a adjunct professor at Taylor University in Upland, IN. Eva Marie serves as the Executive Co-Chairman for Word Weavers, a national/international Christian writers critique group under the auspices of Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild. She also serves as one of CWG's writing mentors.
Eva Marie has worked with a number of publishers--and not because she is difficult to get along with. Among those she has been honored to work with are: Barbour, David C. Cook, NavPress, Baker Publishing Group, Broadman Holman, and Thomas Nelson. www.EvaMarieEversonAuthor.com
CLASSES:
What can be learned about self-editing in group critique? What are the most common mistakes or oversights in self-editing? How important are first pages ... titles ... outlines and chapter-by-chapter breakdown? In this hands-on workshop, Eva Marie Everson will discuss elements of self-editing (including top mistakes writers make) as well as lead the group in critiquing/dissecting/fleshing out individual works including using Scripture properly, using dialogue in nonfiction works, getting quotes and references and listing them properly. Conferees must sign up in advance and the class is limited to the first ten. Class participants should bring ten copies of their first 1000 words as well as the chapter-by-chapter breakdown of their work, and should be ready to discuss concept to completion ideas, title ideas, and possible avenues for publication. Hands on, loads of fun, and chocolate is involved.
Next Level Fiction Practicum [Updated 3-7-12]
The First Three Things to Consider. Internal and External Conflicts. Character Arcs. The Seven "Issues." Time Lines & Dialogue. Title Pages, Hooks, & the "Four Questions" (No, this is not an introduction to Passover). In this 5-hour hands-on workshop, Eva Marie Everson will discuss elements of fiction for next-level conferees. Get your red pens ready because we're going to work on your manuscript. Conferees must sign up in advance and the class is limited to the first ten. Class participants should bring ten copies of their first 1000 words as well as one page that is heavy with dialogue. Participants should also be ready to discuss concept to completion ideas, titles, and possible avenues for publication. Hands on, loads of fun, and chocolate is involved.
Dr. Alton Gansky, (novels, nonfiction books)
Alton Gansky is a full time writer, director of BRMCWC, and founder of Gansky.Communications. He is the award winning author of 30 books. In addition to his own writing, he consults with publishers and writers. Through Gansky Communications he aids nonprofits, business, publishers, agents, and authors in producing the best in written communications. He has also written scores of videos, radio and television ads and other business productions. Prior to turning to full time writing, he was the senior pastor of a Southern Baptist church. In addition to his writing, he speaks to writers groups and church organizations.
Classes:
Expanding Your Ministry Through Writing (continuing class)
For 22 years I served 3 churches as pastor. During that time I learned that I could increase my ministry reach several hundred fold by writing. So can you. In this special set of classes you learn:
1. How Writing can Expand Your Ministerial Influence
2. How to Turn Sermons and Bible Studies into Articles
3. How to Turn Sermons and Bible Studies into Books
4. Mastering the Craft
Linda Gilden, (nonfiction books, articles)
Linda Gilden is an experienced writer, speaker, editor, and writing coach. Author of the popular Love Notes series, she is also the author of Mommy Pick-Me-Ups and many ghostwritten books. With hundreds of magazine articles to her credit, Linda Gilden is a prolific writer who loves to share a great story. As a freelance editor and writing coach working with publishers and individuals, she encourages others to make their writing the best it can be. As a speaker, she travels all over the country sharing the message of God’s hope. As a member of the CLASS Seminars training staff and Director of CLASS Christian Writers Conference, Linda enjoys helping others polish their speaking and writing skills on their journeys to clear, concise communication. Linda is a Certified Personality Trainer helping others discover the joy of understanding themselves and those around them. She also directs the Carolina Christian Writers Conference.
Contact Linda at Rosewriter@aol.com
Website: www.lindagilden.com
Classes:
The Writer’s Personality (workshop)
The Writer’s Personality? What does my personality have to do with the way I write? Your personality affects the way you see the world. Therefore, everything you write is influenced by your point of view. What are the healthy habits of a sanguine writer? Why does a melancholy writer seem to get more projects done? How can a choleric writer organize his or her checklists for the most benefit? What can encourage a phlegmatic writer? Upon examination we will find that we all have characteristics of more than one personality. Our writing will be stronger if we understand our personalities and the personalities of those we are writing for.
Create Your Own Editorial Calendar (workshop)
Being aware of special days and anniversaries that tie in with articles is a great way to catch an editor’s eye. Your calendar can be a gold mine of ideas. Learn how to use the calendar to spark ideas and create more sales for your work. Discover ways to find new calendar ideas, how to keep those ideas organized so you don’t miss an opportunity, and how to use and reuse ideas for multiple sales.
Speaker to Writer - Expanding Your Ministry in Print (workshop)
Speakers have a limited amounted of time to share their messages with their audiences. The size of the audience is also a fixed number rarely getting above a thousand. But a book or magazine articles can reach thousands if not hundreds of thousands more. So, all you have to do is transcribe your messages and get them into print, right? WRONG! Spoken messages can make great printed material but only if the proper writing techniques are applied. This workshop will help you take your spoken message to create multiple print pieces that will greatly expand the number of people you reach and produce quality products for your speaker’s book table.
Gina Holmes, (novelist)
In 1998, Gina Holmes began her career penning articles and short stories. In 2005 she founded, Novel Journey—a literary blog named one of Writer’s Digests best websites for writers. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her husband and children in Southern Virginia. Her debut novel, Crossing Oceans, won an INSPY award for excellence in Christian fiction. To learn more about her, visit: www.ginaholmes.com or www.noveljourney.blogspot.com
Classes:
10 Things You Can Do Now to Promote the Book You Haven’t Even Sold Yet (continuing class)
When you’re constantly receiving rejection letters from publishers or agents, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is publicizing a novel you can’t even seem to sell, but if you wait until your book is releasing or even about to release, you’ve waited too long. Best-selling & award winning novelist, Gina Holmes will give you practical steps to put you in the best position to promote your work so that when the contract comes, you’re well ahead of the game.
(c) Lancia E. Smith and the C.S. Lewis Foundation
Dr. Angela Hunt, (Novels)
Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly four million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 100 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.
Now that her two children have reached their twenties, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards—one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City. Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
With the recent completion of her doctorate in theology, Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything.” Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. She recently completed her doctorate in biblical literature and is now finishing her doctorate in Theology.
When she’s not home writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course. Readers may visit her web site at www.angelahuntbooks.com and write her at Angie@angelaelwellhunt.com.
Classes:X-Ray Your Plot . . . make sure the structure is sound (workshop)
Using a highly visual method, it's easy to figure out where the "bones" of your story are supposed to go.
Keys to Longevity in the Publishing Business(Next.Level, continuing class)
After writing for 30 years and traditionally publishing 121 books, Angela Hunt gives ideas as to how to survive as a long-term writer.Shortcuts to Deep Characterization (workshop)
How to use a popular personality inventory to flesh out your characters in minutes.You Have All You Need (workshop)
Steven James (novelist)
Steven James has penned 30+ books spanning the genres of psychological thrillers, prayer collections, dramas, monologues, a nine book series on creative storytelling, YA fantasy, and inspirational nonfiction.
He has received wide critical acclaim for his work including four Storytelling World Honor awards, two Publishers Weekly starred reviews, and 2009 and 2011 Christy Awards for best suspense. His latest thriller, The Bishop, was named both Suspense Magazine's and The Christian Manifesto's 2010 Book of the Year.
Steven earned a Master’s Degree in Storytelling from ETSU in 1997 and is an active member of International Thriller Writers, the Authors Guild, Mystery Writers of America, and International Association of Crime Writers. He is a contributing editor to Writer's Digest, and has taught writing and storytelling principles on three continents.
He lives in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee with his wife and three daughters.
Classes:
Zena Dell Lowe, (Writer, Director, Producer)
ZENA DELL LOWE worked successfully as an actress in theatre, independent films and national commercials before transitioning behind the scenes as a writer, director, and producer. The transition took place in 2000 when Zena attended the acclaimed Act One: Writing for Hollywood Program, which led to her first paid writing gig for the short film The Haunted Heart, for which she won a Silver and a Telly Award. Soon after, Zena began working at a distribution company called Providence Entertainment, learning the business side of the industry while continuing to write short films and plays. In 2002, Zena was honored to become the Associate Director of Act One and began teaching at writers conferences around the country. Zena left Act One in 2004 to write, produce and direct full time. She also began working as a script supervisor on various independent film projects, such as writer/director Jim Kouf’s Fork in the Road in 2009. In 2007, Zena joined forces with several other women to form Skirt Films, an independent film production company based out of Bozeman, Montana. Her most recent short film, “Hard Shell,” screened at various film festivals around the country. In addition to film work, Zena teaches classes on screenwriting and playwriting as an adjunct professor at Covenant College in Georgia, performs as a guest with the acclaimed Vigilante Theatre Company in Montana, and continues to teach at various writers conferences around the country. Zena also is the director of theatre program at Journey Church in Bozeman.
Zena has a Performing Arts degree from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Hollywood, a Bachelor’s degree in English from California State University at Northridge, and a Master’s degree in Apologetics from Biola University in La Mirada. Zena’s full-length feature, “Home for the Bewildered,” is slated to begin production in the fall of 2012.
Classes:
Hollywood Story-telling Tools: What Hollywood Knows that Every Writer Should Learn (continuing class)
Finding Your Story (session 1)
The choice of what story to tell is the most important decision you will make as a writer. In this class, we will discuss personal and market place factors you should consider as you choose your story. Don't waste valuable time and energy on a story that won't get published. Find out how to choose the right story from the get-go.
The Three-Act Structure, Hollywood Style (session 2)If you've been to the movies lately, you'll know that Hollywood does something extremely well. They know how to tell good stories. In this session, we will breakdown the “Hollywood formula” and learn what Hollywood does that's so successful. Then we'll discover the Hollywood Beat Sheet for you to apply to your own story so as to make your project work from beginning, through the middle, to the end. (This class will use film clips. If possible, please watch the film "Witness" starring Harrison Ford prior to attending.)
Industry Standard Formatting (workshop)
Want to know what can ruin your chance of ever being read? Ignoring industry standard formatting. This course will teach you how to properly format your script. It won’t guarantee a great story, but it will make you look like a professional.
Calling & Responsibility: What is a Christian Artist? (workshop)
What does it look like to be a Christian writer? Does our work qualify as "good" as long as it lacks sex, language and violence? What should my goal be if I consider myself to be a Christian writer? Must I present the gospel in every story I tell? There is a lot of confusion in the church about what it means to be a Christian artist. This course will probe the moral dimensions of novel writing and challenge Christians about what it means to be a Christian artist.
Yvonne Lehman, (novelist)
YVONNE LEHMAN is an award-winning, best-selling author of 48 novels. She directed the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference for 25 years, is now director of the October Blue Ridge “Autumn in the Mountains” Novel Retreat (www.lifeway.com/novelretreat), director of the August Blue Ridge "Summer in the Mountains" Novel Retreat held along wtih the Gideon Media Arts Conference (www.gideonfilmfestival.com), co-director with Ann Tatlock of the Honored Authors of Gideon, and mentor with the Christian Writers Guild. Her latest release is three historical Hawaii novels, Aloha Love, Picture Bride and Love from Ashes, in a collection titledAloha Brides (Barbour, April 2011). She earned a Master’s Degree in English from Western Carolina University and has taught English and Creative Writing. www.yvonnelehman.com
Classes:
Beginning Novel Writing Clinic (practicum)
Those interested may send the beginning of your novel to ylehman@bellsouth.net for discussion in class, but that's not required. This class will cover what you need for the right start to your story.
What’s the big idea and how do you develop it? You will discover into which genre your idea or work-in-progress fits. There is a process to finding and developing your ideas. In the first few pages of your story, the groundwork is laid for the entire book. We will talk about setting, characters, descriptions, conflict, theme, plot and faith. You’ll discover how to be aware of those ingredients and include as many as possible in that all-important-first sentence, first paragraph and first page.
Picture Your Story. Is a picture really worth a thousand words? Discover when a storyboard can be more valuable to a writer than an outline. Learn how and why to make storyboards for four different kinds of books: 1. Mainstream 2. Women’s Fiction 3. Inspirational Romance 4. Books to write Later - Learn the purpose and value of having pictures all around to inspire you as you write.
What makes a story inspirational? You will learn how to identify, develop, and incorporate the faith element into your story that will minister to the reader in a unique way.
Raising the Stakes: Creating and Maintaining Tension (workshop)
The stakes are the meat or the heart of the story. The stakes are what captures the editor’s attention, keeps the reader interested, and makes your book a page-turner. We’re told that we need to raise the stakes in our writing. We have no story without stakes (plural!) In this workshop we will define what is not, and what is at stake. You not only need to establish the stakes in your novel, but discover what is at stake for you, the author, and what is at stake for your reader.
Writing the All-Important Query Letter and Back-Cover Blurb (practicum)
This is what sells the idea to the editor and/or agent so they ask to see your proposal. Also discover how to deliver your pitch, logline, elevator speech, write a one-sheet and continue on to a proposal. You may, but not required, send your query letter and/or back-cover blurb to ylehman@bellsouth.netto be discussed in class (name omitted if you prefer).
Joyce Magnin, (children, young adult, novels)
[Update 5-16-12: The scheduled instructor Nancy Rue is unable to attend due to a family illness. Filling in for her is children's author Joyce Magnin. Joyce will be teaching the same classes.]
Joyce Magnin is the author of the popular and quirky Bright's Pond Series including The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow which was named one of the top five books of 2009 by Library Journal. Her newest book Harriet Beamer Takes the Bus released April 2012 from Zondervan. She is also the author of two middle grade novels, Carrying Mason and CAKE and is currently at work on a series with ZonderKidz. Joyce is a frequent retreat speaker and workshop leader. She has never eaten a scallop or skydived but she does enjoy cream soda and baseball.
Classes:
To Be Continued: Writing a Series for Young Readers (continuing class)
Tween and teen readers tend to devour fiction the same way they consume bags of chips, especially stories that tell a continuing saga. This workshop is designed for those who want to get their teeth into creating series for the 8 to 12 and/or teen set. Lots of nuts and bolts tips as well as imagination enhancers. Who knows? Participants may walk out with the next kids’ phenomenon in their heads.
Next Level: Beyond the Basics for Children’s Writers (continuing class)
For both published and almost-published authors of fiction for youth – tweens (8 to 12 year olds) and teens – this workshop will go beyond the fundamentals of kid-writing and into the finer points that make short stories, chapter books, and youth novels favorites with young readers. Plenty of practical advice and concept shapers, all in an interactive format. (i.e – be prepared to play)
Getting Some of it on You (workshop)
A crash course in writing fiction for young people. Participants will discover what age group they’re most geared to write for, and will run with me through the basic process used to create compelling stories, from the glint of an idea to a start on a manuscript. Hands, imagination, and a willingness to, well, get some of it on you are required.
Torry Martin, (writing, marketing) [added 3-16-12]
Torry Martin is a screenwriter, humor columnist, actor, comedian, speaker, author, storyteller and teacher. He is a member of the Christian Comedy Association and a two-time Christian Artists Gospel Music Association Grand Prize Winner for his acting and writing abilities. Most recently he was awarded the Grand Prize for creating the best “Life Lessons” commercial for The Learning Channel (TLC). Torry has written for the Adventures in Odyssey radio program produced by Focus on the Family and is the creator of Wooton Bassett, a popular character in the series. He additionally writes a regularly featured humor columnist for Christian periodicals Clubhouse, On Course, and Enrichment Journal.Martin has also had the great pleasure of co-writing several screenplays with his good friend Marshal Younger.
Torry travels nationally speaking and performing stand up comedy at a variety of Christian events.
The Power of Networking (workshop)
The who, what, where, when, why and how of networking . Including how to network from a spiritual perspective.
The Secrets to Free Publicity/Press Kits on a Budget/ Shameless Self Promotion (workshop)
Learn how to successfully market yourself or your project for maximum exposure at minimal cost.
Edie Melson, (freelance writing, editing, nonfiction, social media)
Edie Melson is a freelance writer and editor with years of experience in the publishing industry. She’s a prolific writer, and has a popular writing blog, The Write Conversation. In keeping up with the leading edge of all things digital Edie has become known as one of the go-to experts on Twitter, Facebook, and social media for writers wanting to learn how to plug in. Her bestselling eBook on this subject, Social Media Marketing for Writers, is available on Kindle and Nook.
As a sought after writing instructor, her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers all over the country. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, as well as a popular faculty member at numerous others. Edie is also the Assistant Acquisitions Editor for ChristianDevotions.us.
Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home, is Edie’s latest project. This devotional book for those with family members in the military debuted on Veterans Day, 2011.
She’s a member of numerous professional writing organizations, including the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, The Christian Pen, The Christian Writer’s View I and American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s also an assistant copy editor for the Voices Ezine, a publication of My Book Therapy and a part of the My Book Therapy Special Teams Blog and The Social Media Coach for the My Book Therapy Core Team.
Classes:
Learn to Plug-in without Stressing-out: Writing for the Internet and Beyond (continuing class)
Did you know that the college class of 2014 considers email obsolete? According to the Beloit College Mindset List they've also never written in cursive and with cell phones to tell them the time, they see no need for a wristwatch.
If this makes you feel old and out of touch, don’t panic, Edie can help you develop a web presence that puts you back on the cutting edge. Learn the basics of setting up a blog, working with Facebook and tweeting on Twitter. Beyond that, she’ll give you the tools and resources to keep current with all things digital. Classes include:
- How to set up a blog
- How Peripheral Sites Feed into Web Presence
- Everything about Facebook & Twitter
- Warnings
Copywriting for fun and profit (workshop)
Writing copy for marketing and advertising is a great way to learn the craft of writing tight while earning money. A savvy business owner, Edie has numerous copywriting clients who rely on her expertise and she’s prepared to pass that knowledge on to you. Join her in this stand alone workshop as she shares how to do the work and where to find the clients.
Do You Have What it Takes to be a Freelance Editor? (workshop)
This class will give you an introduction to the business of freelance editing. Edie's experience can help you evaluate your skill level and what you need to be a valuable resource to writers and business owners.
DiAnn Mills, (novels)
Award-winning author DiAnn Mills is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn’s first book was published in 1998. She currently has more than fifty books published.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists and have won placements through the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Carol Awards and Inspirational Reader’s Choice awards. DiAnn won the Christy Award in 2010 and 2011.
DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers and a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Romance Writers of America, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is also the Craftsman mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild.
She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
Website: www.diannmills.com
Classes:
The Prize Winning Proposal (workshop)
Published novelists understand the importance of putting together a prize winning proposal. Often the question of what goes into a proposal is a little scary! This workshop focuses on how to make sure the writer’s submission catches an agent’s or reader’s eye. The following will be discussed: The critical first three chapters; How to condense a 300 page novel into a 2 ½ page synopsis; What is a marketing plan? How do I write an author bio when I’m not published? What’s the difference between a query and a cover letter? Why novels are rejected.
Writing Romance that Sells (continuing class)
Christian romance is a blend of emotions, truth, a crafted plot, memorable characters, and a dynamic setting, but the love story is the central theme. Topics include: Creating Credible, Colorful, Compelling Characters; Plots that Dance Across the Reader's Heart; The Keys to a Runaway Romance Novel.
Dr. Trisha Petty, (fiction, visual media)
Trisha Petty Th.D. has co-authored 13 novels, among these: Siren, To Touch a Dream and Tangerine, published by Tor Press and Harlequin Romances (Simon and Schuster). For 35 years she was a much sought after Production Assistant, then Personal Assistant to actors, directors and producers. Working with some of Hollywood’s top creatives, Dr. Petty contributed story boards and character development to projects such as “Star Trek: The Wrath of Kahn,” “North and South,” and “Paint Your Wagon.”
As president of Antebellum Productions, Dr. Petty travels teaching the basics of writing with the emphasis on character development, organization, and outline development. With her own brand of humor and personal experience, Dr. Petty shows students new and proven ways to take their novel from idea to finished product.
Classes:
Writing 101 - Do I Really Need an Outline? (continuing class)
This class is for beginners or those hung up on outline, character development etc.
Breaking Writers Block - Writing for the Generations (practicum, continuing class)
It's Your World So Make it What You Will (workshop)
Jim Rubart, (novels, marketing)
James L. Rubart is a professional marketer whose Jr2 Marketing company clientele has included ABC, AT&T/Cingular, and Clear Channel Radio. He is also a professional speaker, writes recurring columns for Christian Fiction Online Magazine and Christian Women Online, and is on the board of the Northwest Christian Writers Association. Jim and his wife and their two teenage sons live just outside Seattle, Washington.
Classes:
Marketing 101-401: A crash course on avoiding marketing kryptonite (continuing class)
The 12 essential skills every author must learn in order to develop super powered marketing for their writing career.
Creating Unique Ideas with Spiritual Heft (workshop)
Do you long to create stories that make editors and agents say, "Now this is different, I love it!” Do you want your stories to ring with authentic spiritual depth? Do you want to know how to develop story ideas that will make a major impact on readers?
Often agents and editors (and ultimately readers) will say, "I've seen this idea many times before," or "The spiritual part of the book seemed to be tacked on …"
If you want to break out of that pack, this is your class.
During this workshop, bestselling author James L. Rubart will explain the techniques he uses for his own stories and how you can use them to develop powerful and attention getting stories of your own.
Content is King, Dictator, and Supreme Commander of the Universe (workshop)
Does the content of your books and articles grab readers around the proverbial throat? Yes? Excellent. But that’s far from enough.
EVERYTHING you write needs to stand out if you want editors, agents, and readers to notice you and remember you.
We’re talkin’ e-mails, query letters, blog posts, comments on blogs, Facebook posts, Twitter posts, thank you notes, proposals, Web site copy—all of it.
During this workshop, bestselling author and professional copy-writer, James L. Rubart will teach you how every one of your keystrokes can make you unforgettable.
Vonda Skelton, (novels, public speaking)
Vonda Skelton is a busy speaker, member of National Speakers Associations, who loves teaching other speakers through her Christian Communicators Conferences. She is co-owner of the Southern Christian Women's Conferences and The Story of a Woman's Life: Reading Between the Whines. Vonda also loves to write and is the author of four books, including Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe and the 3-book Bitsy Burroughs Mysteries. Her latest novel,Bitsy and the Mystery at Hilton Head Island, was nominated for a SIBA book award. Her articles have appeared in HomeLife, Focus on the Family publications, ParentLife, ChristianSingle, New ManMagazine, and many others. Vonda is a frequent instructor at writers conferences, and loves encouraging writers through her Christian Writer’s Den blog. She is a playwright and lyricist, and enjoys performing in church and community theater. And if you have a magnifying glass, you may even be able to catch her in an occasional movie! Vonda and her husband, Gary, have been married all their lives, and are still happy about it! Want a laugh? Check out her YouTube video, Solomon's Beloved here: http://tinyurl.com/5fedyj For more information about Vonda's speaking ministry, take a look at her demo DVD on YouTube:http://tinyurl.com/33l27js. Check out her Christian Writer's Den blog and her website atwww.VondaSkelton.com.
Classes:
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.
Todd Starnes, (Nonfiction)
Todd Starnes is the host of Fox News & Commentary – a daily commentary heard on hundreds of radio stations around the nation. He writes a daily blog read by more than 2 million people. He is also a regular guest on Fox & Friends and Hannity. Todd has covered news from the White House to Wall Street. His writing has been described as a cross between Lewis Grizzard and Erma Bombeck. He is the author of two books, the most recent being “Dispatches From Bitter America.” His writing has been endorsed by Sean Hannity, Sarah Palin, and Jerry Jenkins. Todd is the recipient of the Edward R. Murrow Award and the Associated Press Mark Twain Award. He is a frequent speaker at churches and Christian colleges.
Classes:
Writing a Daily Blog (workshop)
Want to write a daily blog – that people will bookmark? Todd shows you how it’s done. His daily blog is read by more than 2 million people.
The Author as a Guest (workshop)
Promoting your book can be a fun and exciting experience. But it can also be difficult. Todd will give you pointers on how to be a great guest on radio and television shows and how to be a most excellent interviewee for newspapers and magazines. It’s all about promoting yourself and your book!
Writing for Newspapers (workshop)
One of the best ways to get published is your local newspaper. Veteran journalist Todd Starnes will give you some “tested under fire” ideas that will help you connect with editors and get yourself a front page byline.
Cecil Stokes, (Visual media)
Cecil Stokes founded Tentmakers Entertainment in 1999. He has executive produced and/or produced more than 1250 television shows for the networks such as A&E, Court TV, DIY Network, ESPN, Fine Living, Food Network, HGTV, History Channel, the Travel Channel and Turner South. For his Television programming, Cecil has won Cable Ace, Communicator, New York Film Festival, and TElly awards. He also won an Emmy for his work on the show "Blue Ribbon." Cecil executive produced two award winning documentaries A MAN NAMED PEARL and CHILDREN OF ALL AGES. He has created commercials for BMW, Cadillac, Hyundai, the State of California, Sara Lee, and Kohler.
Classes:
Writing for Visual Media (continuing class)
Are you interested in documentaries, feature films, or maybe even how to create and pitch a television show? Come with your questions and we'll tackle all your want-to-know questions to help you take the first steps to all forms of visual media.
Ann Tatlock, (Fiction, nonfiction)
Ann Tatlock is the author of the Christy Award-winning novel All the Way Home. She has also won the Midwest Independent Publishers Association "Book of the Year" in fiction for both All the Way Home and I'll Watch the Moon. Publishers Weekly calls her "one of Christian fiction's better wordsmiths." Ann lives with her husband and daughter in Asheville, North Carolina. www.anntatlock.com
Classes:
Putting up the Frame (workshop)
Even if you're a "seat-of-the-pants" writer, you'll need to make some definite decisions before you jump into the story. We'll talk about settling on such aspects of novel-writing as genre, theme, POV, and outlining, and why these are important to pin down before you begin.
Ideas and Inspiration (workshop)
Every novel begins with a single idea. How do you find an idea that works, and how do you develop it into a full-length novel? And is it true that characters have minds of their own and have a say in what happens to them? Come and find out.
Painting the Landscape: Senses and Setting (workshop)
To write a novel is to create a world. Learn to use your senses to create a vivid setting for your readers to “live in.”
Pleased to Make Your Acquaintance (workshop)
Your characters will be the driving force behind your plot, so get to know them well before you begin. In this workshop, we’ll talk about listening to your characters and bringing them to life so that they’ll be both believable and unforgettable.
Dr. Donn Taylor, (Poetry)
Donn Taylor is a poet and novelist who holds a PhD in Renaissance literature and has more than 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 was published in 2008. His fiction includes a suspense novel, The Lazarus File, and a light-hearted mystery, Rhapsody in Red. He has also published essays on writing, literary criticism, ethical issues, and U. S. foreign policy. He is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences and study groups, and he welcomes one-on-one sessions with prospective poets. In a prior incarnation, he served in two wars with the U. S. Army. His Web site is www.donntaylor.com.
Classes:
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 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 can "raise the voltage" of your poetry while deepening its meaning.
Beth Vogt, (Nonfiction, fiction)
Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of a former Air Force family physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. She’s discovered that God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.”
Beth’s debut novel, Wish You Were Here (Howard Books May 2012) asks the question: When a woman kisses her fiancé’s brother five days before the wedding, which is the mistake? The wedding? Or the kiss? Her second novel will be published in May 2013. Beth writes inspirational contemporary romance because she believes there’s more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.
Before a season of burnout refocused her writing dreams, Beth was a regular contributor toMomSense magazine, a publication of Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) International. For four and a half years she also edited Connections, MOPS’ leadership magazine, with a circulation of 30,000 MOPS leaders worldwide. She continues to write a bimonthly column for MOMSnext, an e-newsletter for moms of school-age children, and is a consulting editor for MomSense. Beth’s first book, Baby Changes Everything: Embracing and Preparing for Motherhood after 35, is a MOPS brand book (Revell 2007).
Beth is also the Skills Coach and Mentor for best-selling author Susan May Warren’s writing community My Book Therapy (MBT). She oversees the MBT StoryCrafters Online Writing Course, which connects writers with a mentor and helps them learn the fundamentals of writing a novel. As a member of the MBT Special Team, Beth provides an editor’s perspective on writing fiction and is also an assistant copy editor and regular columnist for Voices, the MBT e-zine.
Beth enjoys speaking to both women’s and writing groups and considers it a privilege (and a lot of fun!) to mentor other writers. Besides MomSense magazine, she also has been published in Accent, Moody Monthly, Discipleship Journal, The Christian Communicator, Virtue, ParentLife, ParentGuide and Crosswalk.com, as well as Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Tribute to Moms and The Mommy Diaries. A quote aficionado, Beth connects with both her readers and other writers through her blog, In Others’ Words.
Classes:
A Writers Life as Seen Through The Princess Bride (continuing class)
Join Beth as she gives us a glimpse into the writing life, illustrated through the truths brought out in the movie, The Princess Bride.
- The Cliffs of Insanity: Being a writer can make you crazy -- practical tips on how to handle the craziness. (session 1)
- The Fire Swamp: Surviving and thriving in the writing world. (session 2)
- The Pit of Despair: Two truths you need to know about the Writer's Pit of Despair. (session 3)
- Waiting for Vizzini: When things go wrong along the writing road, what do you do? (session 4)
Susan May Warren, (Novels)
Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty-five novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Book of the Year. A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!
She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.
A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: www.susanmaywarren.com.
Classes:
Become your own Book Therapist! (continuing class)
Every novelist should know how to analyze and strengthen their own writing. But it’s so easy to get too close; how often do we know something doesn’t work, but don’t know how to diagnose it? It’s time to learn some Self-Therapy.
This class will teach intermediate and advanced novelists how to pinpoint, diagnose, and heal the broken places in their novels. Using proven techniques developed in her Story-crafting service, My Book Therapy, novelists will go over the five basic parts of a novel: concept/plot; characterization; scenes; and the elusive concept…VOICE -- to discover their story’s weakness. Then, they’ll be armed with treatments to know how to fix them. Can be taught as an early bird, an afternoon clinic, or a three-four-five part continuing education session.
The Spiritual Thread: Bondage or Blessing? (workshop)
Too often Christian fiction is looked at as a “real story bound by religious confines.” I believe Christian Fiction is the only “true” storytelling, engaging all aspects of a person – physical, emotional and spiritual. This class will teach a beginning writer how to make a story God-driven, look at the different ways of weaving a story around a spiritual foundation, and offer tips and warnings as well as techniques that can change your story from one with spiritual overtones, to a story that touches souls.
The Big Ten: The essential elements of a can’t-put-down first chapter! (workshop)
Your first chapter is the most important. If a reader isn’t captured by the end of chapter One, they’ll miss the rest, (because it’ll sit on their shelf and languish!) Learn the ten elements that must be in your first chapter if you want to capture your reader, including an overview of a sharp HOOK. Handouts included.
Tell me a story, but make it short: How to write a engaging Synopsis and compelling Pitch… (workshop)
You have a great story – unfortunately, you can send your editor all 90,000 words! You need a summary…only, how do you turn it from dry to dramatic, and make it engaging enough to sell your novel? This class will teach you how to write a synopsis that not only showcases your story, but also your voice, and makes the editor thirst for more. With step by step instruction and synopsis secrets, participants will also learn how to put together a compelling pitch that will make anyone say…hey, I want to read that!
Rusty Wright, Amy Foundation Representative (articles)
Rusty Wright is an award-winning author, journalist, syndicated columnist and lecturer who has spoken on six continents. His columns have appeared in mainstream newspapers across the US. He is a frequent presenter at Evangelical Press Association conventions and his writing credits include many EPA magazines such as Christianity Today, Decision, Worldwide Challenge, Plain Truth, Physician and Pentecostal Evangel. He holds a Bachelor of Science (psychology) and Master of Theology degrees from Duke and Oxford universities, respectively. Rusty is a winner of numerous Amy Writing Awards.
Classes:
Effectively Communicating Christ to Secular Audiences (workshop)
Could God use your talents and publications to influence nonChristians for Christ? Learn how readers think and feel, what they want and why. Discover practical tools for analyzing your audience, including their religious persuasion, intellectual level, psychological makeup, needs, moral attitudes, issues and heroes. Tap your readers' felt needs, grab attention, touch hearts and minds, and sensitively communicate spiritual truth. Practical ideas to help Christian communicators reach secular readers and to assist writers/editors in helping their Christian readers connect with secular friends, neighbors and coworkers.
Secrets of Successful Humor (workshop)
How to use humor effectively to attract and hold your readers. Why do people laugh? How can you relate humorous stories with a punch? This workshop, by the author of the award-winning book, Secrets of Successful Humor, gives you practical ideas to help your articles and publications sparkle. Learn to use humor appropriately to help your readers (and your coworkers) understand, enjoy and remember your important points and thirst for more.
Advocacy Apologetics: Finding Common Ground with Skeptics (workshop)
It’s a crucial lesson; I'm glad I learned it early on: In communicating with skeptics, start by agreeing where you can. You'll get many more to listen. Inspiring stories and practical principles for building bridges to connect with those who disagree with you.
Pam Zollman, (Children's)
Pam Zollman is the award-winning author of 40 children’s books and numerous short stories and articles. Her middle-grade novel Don’t Bug Me!(Holiday House, 2001) has been translated into other languages. It was a Sunshine Sate Young Reader book, in the Florida Battle of the Books, and was one of Bank Street College of Education’s Best Books of 2002. A Chick Grows Up(Scholastic, 2005) was an honor book for the Maryland Blue Crab Readers Choice Award in 2006. Many of her books are included on school and library reading lists, and her Life Cycle series for Scholastic have been translated into Spanish. Her short story, “Millie’s Garden,” won first place in Highlights for Children’s annual fiction contest in 1996.
Classes:
Crafting a Picture Book (practicum, continuing class)
Session 1 - discuss what picture books are and are not; pick story.
Session 2 - write story.
Session 3 - make dummy and revise.
Session 4 - revise again; 1-2 sentence synopsis; markets.
How to Write for the Children's Magazine Market (workshop)
We’ll analyze the market to learn what will sell where.
How and why to hurt your characters, and how this leads to character growth and a much stronger story.
