This 10-week course is aimed at writers who are currently working on a draft of a book-length memoir or narrative essay collection or who are very serious about writing a memoir or essay collection. During class sessions, we will discuss key areas of developing a powerful book: finding one's theme or throughline; balancing showing vs. telling and situation vs. story; building powerful scenes; creating structure to keep your reader turning pages, and more. In addition, each student will have at least two opportunities to share 6-page excerpts of their work during in-class workshops.
Prerequisites: Emerging level or all levels memoir, nonfiction, or essay writing course.
Genre: Nonfiction/memoir
Level: Intermediate
Format: Craft workshop with generative writing outside of class and feedback during class.
Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.
Size: Limited to 10 participants (including scholarships).
Suggested Sequence: Follow this class with an advanced level memoir, nonfiction, or essay writing course.
Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by December 5.
Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.
Judah Leblang is a storyteller, memoirist and writing teacher. His essays and commentaries have been broadcast throughout the US on more than 150 NPR and ABC-network radio stations, as well as several Canadian stations. He is a regular columnist for Bay Windows, Boston’s gay newspaper, and an instructor at Grub Street. He is the author of two memoirs: Finding My Place (2013) and Echoes of Jerry (2019).