Writing/Literature

5 Wed., April 1-29, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Beckett Bldg. Rm. 140. Learn how to write character-driven narratives, whether fiction or memoirs. We will begin by reading professional writers and discuss how they reveal the inner workings of their characters which drive the action or plot of the story. But most class time will be spent sharing and discussing each other's writing. Through in-class activities and take-home exercises, we will generate new writing and gain tools for our ongoing projects to craft vivid and vibrant characters. The workshop facilitator is an award- and grant-winning author, with 30 years of experience teaching writing at Michigan colleges and universities.

2 Wed., Feb. 5 and 12, 6:30-8 p.m., University Center Rm. 209. Could you be making grammar mistakes of which you are unaware, but maybe others notice? Whether talking or writing, how you use language MATTERS. Discover the most common errors in our spoken and written words - are they mistakes that you are making in the workplace? When out to dinner with friends? Join author Stephen Lewis (latest novel is Murder Undone) for a refresher that helps you correct many typical errors and takes your skills up a notch, whether for the workplace, your writing endeavors, speaking engagements, or everyday activities.

2 Wed., Jan. 15 and 22, 6:30-8 p.m., University Center Rm. 209. Have you always wanted to write for children? Come learn about the world of children's books, from writing to publishing. The story might be short, but the idea must be tall. Like poetry, writing children's books can look easy from the outside, but there's a lot to it. We will explore writing for children at different levels, from picture books to novels. Bring your ideas, writing supplies, and questions about writing and publishing.

4 Tues., April 7-28, 6:30-8:30 p.m., University Center Rm. 209. Why leave your story in a drawer? Whether or not you seek publication, this will inspire you to finish it! Designed for any writer with a work in progress, author Elizabeth Buzzelli explores with you the steps that can move your writing further onto the next stage. Get guidance and work on: outlines, beginnings, plot, character, setting, story arc and endings. Please bring whatever you have done so far, idea or completed draft, to class. Do not count yourself out without trying to achieve what you have always dreamed of doing.