Class Description
First drafts of novels can be messy, amorphous, and daunting. Too much critical feedback too early can stall progress—but working without structure or support can be just as frustrating. This class offers a balance: a supportive space to stay focused, generate new material, and deepen your understanding of the novel-writing process.
Each week, we’ll do targeted writing exercises, discuss key craft topics—characterization, the protagonist’s desire, plot and outlining, point of view, voice, and dialogue—and read short scenes from each other’s work. Feedback will focus on what’s taking shape, what’s resonating, and how to sustain momentum, all within a framework that respects the unique challenges of writing a novel-in-progress.
In our final session, writers are invited to submit up to twenty pages of their novel for a detailed written critique from the instructor. Novels of all genres are welcome. Please bring the first page (double-spaced, 12-point font) of your novel to share in the first class.
Please note: Class does not meet Wednesday, October 29th.
Driving to the center? For evening or weekend classes, we recommend SP+ Parking at 45 Binford Street for the most affordable parking around. It's about a 10-minute walk to GrubStreet and offers a flat rate of:
- $13 after 4pm Monday-Friday
- $9 all day Saturday-Sunday
Writing Roadmap: We've created a simple, goal-based writing roadmap to help you find the perfect GrubStreet course for your writing needs.
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 detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.
This class will take place in-person at our Center for Creative Writing in Boston's Seaport neighborhood.
Covid-19 Update:
GrubStreet's space will be mask-optional when Boston's Covid-19 Community Level is low or medium. When the Covid-19 Community Level is high, our space will require masks. Please check GrubStreet's Covid-19 page for the latest info on masking and Community Levels before visiting in person.
Space Accessibility:
Our space is ADA accessible with automatic door openers, ADA-compliant restrooms, desk and table spacing, braille signage, and elevator. Our classrooms can be equipped with ALS for hard of hearing individuals. We cannot guarantee a scent-free environment. For more accessibility requests, please contact our Operations team at [email protected] or (617) 695-0075.