Author Description

For anyone involved in creative writing workshops and the writing of fiction. Presented with style by a veteran workshop leader, this book will save you time, inspire you, and head you off from the common miscues which bedevil beginning writers (and some experienced ones, too). Inside this book, you will find: A discussion of the popularity of creative writing, its place in our culture and in your life; a look at the nature of fiction, and how you might best tap the stories within you; guidance on the mechanics of re-writing, shaping, and changing your stories; a wealth of information and advice about the workshop process, including the Ten Commandments of Workshop Criticism, and other suggestions to help make your workshop a productive time; The Parts Warehouse: A detailed summary, with examples, of literary terms and concepts; some wonderful short stories -- none by famous writers, all by very good beginning writers. Each story illustrates techniques you might employ to advantage in your writing. The main texts of your workshop will be the stories you write. This book will serve as a valuable sub-text and a trusty companion. Companion, as in friend, coach, helpful advisor.