Novel Tools (July 29 – August 2)

(MORNINGS: for ages 12-15) Whether you aspire to write fantasy, science fiction, historical, or contemporary realist novels, you’ll want to develop the skills and discover the tools that successful novelists use to bring their stories to life from intriguing beginnings to satisfying conclusions. We will focus on choosing point of view; developing complex characters, compelling setting, and atmosphere; and creating and sustaining interest through conflicts with important stakes, suspense, and surprise. We will also look at the use of dialogue and the creation of different voices for different characters. You will leave the week with a novel well started, a plan for finishing it, and a bundle of tools and insights for becoming a novelist!