Writing the Novella

This creative writing workshop is devoted to the novella, a classic form that has gained popularity in recent years. During the first half of the workshop, students will examine and discuss the essential features and craftsmanship of the novella form, drawing from examples including How to Escape from a Leper Colony by Tiphanie Yanique, Passing by Nella Larsen, Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks, and Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, while discussing what sets the novella apart from the short story and novel, and how craft plays an essential role in this particular form. Students will have the opportunity to discuss their own novella manuscripts during the second half of the workshop, with a focus on outlining, revision techniques, and achieving the condensed focus necessary for the novella form.