Intro to the Novel: Online

Class Description

You’ve started out on a first novel draft—maybe you just have an idea, maybe you’ve written a few chapters, maybe you've written a lot, but have no idea how it all holds together—but you’re not sure where to go next. Which character should the novel follow? What type of narrator is best for the story you want to tell? What is point of view, anyway, and how do you know when you’re doing it right? No matter where you are in the drafting process, this class can help! Each week we will focus on one area of novel-specific craft –– such as character development, scene building, conflict, and narrative arc –– and generate new material each week through a series of prompts and exercises. Because the best way to learn to write a novel is to read novels, we will also read a novel together and discuss how it employs the skills that we're learning, and how to incorporate these same skills in our own writing. Lastly, we will offer each other feedback and support, not only on each other's writing, but on our writing process –– we'll check in each week about our struggles and victories, and discuss strategies to keep ourselves motivated, during class and after. You will come out of this course with a slew of new scenes, and the insight, inspiration, craft skills to complete your draft.

Did you know that we have scholarships available for all GrubStreet classes? To apply, click the "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button in the top right corner of this page. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your scholarship application and await our Scholarship Committee's decision before registering for the class. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.