Intro to Science Fiction and Fantasy

In this class, we’ll apply elements of the traditional workshop—a focus on craft, language, character, and plot—to the specific considerations of science fiction and fantasy writing. We’ll concentrate on story elements that are unique to these genres, such as believability and consistency in world-building, the "hero" arc of the protagonist, genre tropes, and invented languages. This class involves weekly readings and discussions (20-40 pages), short writing prompts, and workshopping. Short story writers and novelists alike are welcome, as are students new to the genre. We will be reading excerpts from Quisloana: a Dominican fantasy anthology, Africa Risen: a speculative anthology, Between Magic and Dreams and various speculative and sci-fi magazines like Uncanny, FIYAH, & Solarpunk.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.