Jacquelyn Stolos

Instructor Biography:

M.F.A., author of the novel Edendale. Ms. Stolos’s fiction and book reviews have been published in Bodega Magazine, No Tokens, Necessary Fiction and more. Her awards and honors include Georgetown University’s Annabelle Bonner Medal and fellowships to attend the New York State Summer Writers Institute and the Community of Writers. Edendale was named a literary finalist in the 2020 Forward INDIES Book of the Year Awards.

Instructor Statement: 

Every student has their own unique perspective, knowledge, questions, obsessions and stories begging to be shared through fiction. It’s my job to teach writers how to shape these stories: what makes a character compelling? How can we craft plots that make a book impossible to put down? How can we write with attention to setting, point of view and theme? I don’t teach rules but provide an assortment of tools, techniques and literary references my students can utilize throughout the rest of their writing and thinking lives. Together, we’ll explore the art of fiction through a diverse selection of master texts and thoughtful conversations about student manuscripts. Our mission is collaborative; I understand the craft and the industry of fiction, but it’s your perspective at the center of your work.

Our Students Say It Best! 

"Jacquelyn was a kind and gracious instructor. I learned a lot about writing, critiquing, and the elements of a good novel from her. I feel very motivated to finish my novel and am very happy I took her class specifically." — Writers' Program Student

"Just amazingly and wonderfully helpful. As a student you can tell the instructor is in her craft and very well-educated about it and the process. I couldn’t hope for better, and I’m so grateful for the genuine encouragement, insightful resources, and constructive help from Jacquelyn." — Writers' Program Student

"As usual, Jaquelyn doesn't miss. She is such a kind and accepting teacher, and her teaching methods have taken my writing to great heights." — Writers' Program Student