Jerrilyn Farmer

Instructor Biography:

Bestselling writer of the Madeline Bean mystery series has received multiple national mystery awards, including the Macavity and Lefty Awards, and nominations for many others, including the Mary Higgins Clark/MWA Award. Ms. Farmer’s latest book, co-written with Joan Rivers, is Murder at the Academy Awards.

Instructor Statement:

Learning how to get a novel out of your head and onto the page is often a glorious and soul-satisfying journey, but it isn’t always a snap. Sometimes the process could use outside help to provide focus, inspiration, and a gentle push. I know. I spent years thinking about, wishing to, avoiding, and ultimately doubting my own need to be a writer. Then, I did something about it. I studied, took the right class, learned how to get unstuck, and poisoned someone in print. Now you can find me hanging out in Barnes & Noble, grinning at the mystery section where my newest book is sitting sweet as a chocolate donut on the shelf. If you love reading mysteries and wonder if you can write one, join us. There are tricks to shutting off the super critic inside and then watching in amazement as your story reveals itself in all its devilish colors. There are methods behind the madness of tackling a long-form project. These are the very techniques we’ll get to on the first day of class. The mystery scene is thriving and book contracts are still to be had by the first-time author. In our workshop, you’ll receive invigorating commentary on your mystery novel in a safe environment that won’t stifle your last ounce of creativity. You’ll find out what’s working and what’s not, but gently. Hey, people who write about murder need love, too.

Our Students Say it Best!

“As always, Jerrilyn makes the material come alive in an organized, creative, and challenging way.  She skillfully guides the students to stretch their abilities while also giving us confidence.” —Writers’ Program student