Instruction AND COACHING
Daily seminars: Each day of the retreat, we'll have two seminars on different aspects of writing and publishing (see Seminars, below, and Daily Itinerary).
One-on-one coaching: Every attendee will have a one-on-one session (approximately 50 minutes) with Susan to discuss your writing project and goals. We can focus on your writing itself, a writing plan for your project, your book proposal—it’s up to you!
Feedback opportunity: Your one-on-one coaching session can include an individual critique of 5-10 pages of your writing.
IMPORTANT: To take advantage of this opportunity,
you must submit your writing sample before the retreat,
no later than September 1, 2024.
Seminars will be held in the cabin's theater room.
TRIPLE BONUS!!!
Three one-on-one Zoom coaching calls (1 hour each) with Susan,
one in each of the first three quarters of next year (2025).
The retreat is just your jumpstart! Let’s write your next chapter – and your next one!
SEMINARS
Two seminars will be presented each full day, focusing on improving writing techniques, unleashing your creativity, and understanding the publishing industry ‒ for better or worse!
Making English Move!
Words have power. Make your prose engaging by using the principles of precise word choice, solid sentence construction, and language rhythm. Learn to use your writing voice to speak to your readers!
The Writing Process and Writer's Block
Don’t get stuck! Let’s discuss tried-and-true methods of executing your writing project, the value of a flexible plan, and ways to keep going and easily generate ideas.
Self-Editing for Every Writer
More time should be spent in revising than in writing, and the ability to self-edit is an essential skill. It is during the revising that writers hone both their voice and their message.
Using Research in Fiction WritingWhat needs to be true? What doesn’t? What sources are needed? And what about memoir?
Queries, Proposals, and Pitches
Did you know that the overwhelming majority of manuscripts are rejected? The first and crucial step to increase your chances of publication is to professionally present your work to agents, editors, and publishers with a well-written proposal and a polished pitch.
The Many Faces of Publishing
It's all out there: traditional publishers, hybrid publishers, self-publishing, independent publishing, digital publishing – and even more confusing combinations. Let's discuss the important factors that writers should consider in deciding which avenue to pursue.
NOTE: Some seminar topics may change based on attendee interests and requests. Let us know in your pre-retreat questionnaire!