205 Foundations of Fiction: An Organic Approach to Writing (ENGLISH)

Writing a novel or any book-length manuscript is a daunting task. Without the right tools and a well-considered approach, many writers fall short of the finish line, whether because they encounter writer’s block or lack a roadmap that can lead them to the end.In this intensive workshop, acclaimed author Howard Shrier will take you through the organic process that led to his success as a novelist. It’s based on courses he taught for nine years at the University of Toronto, as well as numerous courses for the San Miguel Writers Conference, the Toronto Public Library, the Kingston and Mississauga Festivals and other institutes.A two-time winner of Canada’s highest crime fiction prize, Howard’s knowledge and experience, gained through six novels and one collection of stories, will help demystify the process and break it down into manageable tasks.Among the concepts you’ll cover are the importance of creating a viable protagonist who resonates with readers; of sending them on a journey that challenges them to overcome obstacles and grow over the course of the story; of building an intricate and plausible world based on careful, extensive research; of planning and outlining a three-act structure that allows for the greatest dramatic possibilities; and choosing the right point of view to tell the story.In-class exercises will help you advance all of these aspects of writing so that you emerge with a clearer plan on how to tell your story as only you can and set yourselves up for greater success in the weeks and months ahead.

Instructor

Howard Shrier