Young Adult Writers Program (YAWP): Dream It, Write It…Lightspeed! Science Fiction & Fantasy

Teen Class Description:

Have you ever dreamed of creating Fantasy realms or writing Science Fiction worlds of past or future? Maybe you want to write, but feel intimidated by coming up with otherworldly ideas? Whether you already have a story in you or very new to writing, this class will offer you the basic skills of storytelling to help you transport your writing. We will review the distinct characteristics of Fantasy & Sci-Fi. You’ll learn story structure and identifying your writing rhythm. We’ll also explore how to use digital and print Vision Boards to create phenomenal characters and imaginative worldbuilding. Need ideas? We’ll learn how to imagine stories by using the influence of cultural mythologies and punk genres. Get inspired with short readings including Cindy Pon, Nnedi Okorafor, Adam Silvera, and Tahereh Mafi.  For writers age 13 - 18 ONLY.

Class takeaways:

Expect to leave this class with a full arsenal of material that you can use to inspire your writing!

Note About Our NEW Class Format: 

We’ve made our remote classes more flexible than ever — with plenty of optional portions designed to allow for screen breaks — while still keeping us connected as a writing community. Learn more. 

How Remote Learning works: 

This class will be hosted remotely! You will be able to participate in class via Zoom video conference from wherever you’re most comfortable. All you’ll need is a laptop or a phone! 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 via Zoom–no need to download anything or sign up for Zoom in advance! 

For parents registering their teens: 

*Note: Parents/guardians must complete this permission form online if your teen is under 18.* Unlike previous forms, you only need to fill this out ONE TIME, not for every class. If you cannot remember whether you have already filled it out, please email [email protected] and we will check for you!

If you do not complete the form, registrations could be voided and the cancellation policy will apply. If the student is 18, simply let us know at [email protected]. 

*If you are registering on behalf of your teen, add their email information in the “For a Friend or Child?” field on the right-hand side of the screen before you check out. This will send them a direct link and reminder to create their own profile with GrubStreet. 

(After adding the class to your cart, click "Checkout" and click “Add” next to “For a Friend or Child?” on the right-hand side to fill in their email. This is an easy way of linking the class to your child and encourages them to create their own account.)