10 novel gifts for the wannabe writer

Jem Poster Photograph: KT Bruce

1. How not to give up on your novel

   Starting a novel is easy, finishing it is hard – the greatest challenge to would-be novelists is commitment. Learn how to keep on keeping on in this practical class with eight-time novelist Tim Lott.

2. How to write a comic book: A masterclass with Marvel’s Kieron Gillen

   Learn how to get your concept onto the page and out into the world, in this evening masterclass with Kieron Gillen.

3. Memory and imagination: A masterclass with Cambridge University’s creative writing tutors

   Discover the key to your writing and use it to unlock your creative resources with Professor Jem Poster and Dr Sarah Burton.

4. Free your creativity and get started on your book

   An inspiring weekend workshop with writing coach and book editor Philippa Pride, who has worked with bestselling authors such as Stephen King.

5. Literary translation: A creative writing masterclass

   Thomas Bunstead, leading translator, leads this weekend course that will show you how to translate Spanish-language texts in this fast-track class.

6. How to get your novel published: A class with literary agent Ed Wilson and publisher Suzie Dooré

   An unmissable masterclass for fiction writers looking to get their work into print – with the option of receiving one-to-one feedback on your novel pitch.

7. Writing and publishing your memoir with Gavin Evans

   Learn the secrets of memoir writing with Gavin Evans, author and lecturer, and come away with a newfound confidence in your abilities to carry on developing your writing after the course has finished.

8. Poetry: A practical guide to the craft with Cambridge University’s creative writing tutor

   Develop your creative skills in this one-day poetry-writing course with Jem Poster, emeritus professor of creative writing at Aberystwyth University and tutor for Cambridge University’s Centre for Creative Writing.

9. How to write your family history with Nick Barlay

   Led by novelist Nick Barlay, author of the lauded non-fiction family history Scattered Ghosts, this class will show you how to plan a story based on your family history and create a compelling narrative.

10. How to pitch your book to publishers

    Advice on perfecting your fiction or non-fiction submission to agents and publishers – from book industry expert Scott Pack.