Learn how to bring out the strengths in your novel at this highly interactive course with award-winning author Tim Lott. Over the course of the day, you’ll learn how to think about fiction more critically – and discover a host of techniques to apply to your own work.
Ahead of the course, you’ll need to submit a writing sample (no more than 2,000 words) and a one-paragraph synopsis. You’ll also be asked to read submissions from the other writers in the group, each of which will be workshopped during the class. The day includes tailored discussions and feedback on everyone’s work, along with invaluable advice on how to re-imagine, adapt and develop your story. Don’t miss out on this fantastic writers’ workshop – book your place now and make a commitment to improving your craft.
Course content
- Opening statements and introductions
- Advice on how to critique a text constructively and honestly
- Each participant briefly discusses their own writing during the class
- Group workshopping session – a unique opportunity to receive valuable feedback on your work
- Techniques to improve your writing
- Advice on how to spot strengths and weaknesses in your work
- Overcoming common problems in your novel
- Group discussion on each participants’ work
- Extensive opportunities for Q&A
This course is for you if…
- You’ve started work on a novel and want constructive, solution-based feedback on your work
- You’re a writer who wants to take part in a collaborative group workshop, with a view to improving the quality of your work
Please note: During the course, attendees will be invited to provide honest feedback on each others’ work. A certain strength of character and resilience is required!
Course preparation
- All attendees are required to submit a writing sample of no more than 2,000 words in length and a one-paragraph synopsis ahead of the class
- Your submission will be circulated to everyone in the group at least one week before the course, and you’ll be asked to read everyone’s writing samples and synopses before arriving at the Guardian
- Please email your synopsis and writing sample to masterclasses.support@theguardian.com by Friday 23 October, 1pm. Or, if you sign up after this date, as soon as possible after you have bought your ticket
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Tutor profile
Tim Lott is a novelist, journalist and creative writing tutor. His first novel White City Blue, published in 1999, won the Whitbread First Novel Award. Other works include the memoir The Scent of Dried Roses, and the novels Rumours of a Hurricane and Under the Same Stars. Tim’s column on family matters appears weekly in the Guardian Family section.
Details
This course is no longer running – but we update our programme all the time. For information on our full range of masterclasses, sign up to our newsletter, follow us on Twitter, or keep an eye on our calendar.
To contact us, click here. Terms and conditions can be found here.
Returns policy
Tickets may be refunded if you contact us at least 14 days before the course start date. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.
