Examine the elements of successful novels to identify effective techniques
Develop realistic characters who inhabit a compelling world of your own design
Respond to in-class exercises that deepen your understanding of your book
Read and respond to the work of other writers in the class
About this course:
Writing the first novel can be daunting, at times, even downright lonely. Though being a writer means being alone, writing on your own, it's good to come out of the cave and seek the company of other like-minded individuals for inspiration, support, and to brainstorm ideas. In this class, you are part of a small group of writers working towards the same goal--to write an amazing first novel. Together, we explore the elements of successful novel writing, develop three-dimensional characters, and understand structure, plot, and scene dynamics. This intensive workshop consists of reading assignments (where you learn what it means to "read like a writer"), in-class exercises, assigned writing, lectures on craft, and the give-and-take of critique workshops. The goal is for you to create a solid outline of your novel (or a solid plan for finding your way to the heart of your story), write a first chapter, and acquire the tools you need to keep you going when you return to your cave.
About the Writers Studio
This course is part of the 2021 Writers Studio: Home Edition.
Offered by the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program, the Writers Studio brings together a community of writing students to workshop with some of Southern California’s most accomplished writers and teachers. Harness your creativity, hone your skills, and develop your story with four days of instruction and writing in a supportive environment.
In light of the ongoing and unpredictable COVID-19 pandemic, the Writers’ Program has moved its signature 4-day intensive workshop series to a fully online environment.
Instruction will be conducted with a combination of Zoom-based meetings, offline independent work time, small group activities, and other approaches to learning. The conference also features daily guest speakers and a keynote presentation by an industry professional of note.
Enrollment limited to 15 students. Visitors not permitted. $150 nonrefundable. Internet access required.
This a hybrid (Remote) format course which combines asynchronous online instruction with semi-regular, required live meetings held on Zoom. Please see the course syllabus for specifics. Students must be present at course meeting times as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after January 24, 2022
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Schedule
Type
Date
Time
Location
Discussion
Thu Feb 24, 2022
10:00AM PT - 6:00PM PT
Remote Classroom
Discussion
Fri Feb 25, 2022
10:00AM PT - 6:00PM PT
Remote Classroom
Discussion
Sat Feb 26, 2022
10:00AM PT - 6:00PM PT
Remote Classroom
Discussion
Sun Feb 27, 2022
10:00AM PT - 6:00PM PT
Remote Classroom
Contact Us
Speak to a program representative. Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm.
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