Writing is hard. It takes guts and trust and a little craziness, because most writers are terrified to share their work. They should be. That’s when you know you are writing something meaningful, when you’ve exposed yourself and let other people see inside. And yeah, that’s scary.
Writing Workshops
It is hard to describe the kind of magic that these small groups create. A single "trigger word" prompts ten-minutes of writing, in a safe, supportive environment that combines instruction and inspiration. Several students have gone on to publish the pieces written in this class. As I said, it's hard to convey what happens when writers feel safe, connected, and free to open their hearts. Classes are typically an hour, once a week.
Manuscript Reviews
This is for those who have a manuscript, in any stage of their process, and are looking for thoughtful, supportive and professional feedback. This includes not only Young Adult and Middle Grade manuscripts, but also adult novels and memoirs.
I will read for character, plot, structure, language, rhythm, pacing, consistency and tone — in both an overall sense and in detailed line edits, depending on what you are looking for. After returning your manuscript with my comments, we will spend quality one-on-one time discussing your thoughts and mine. We can repeat this process as many times as desired.
To schedule a free-20 minute consultation: http://WordOnion.us
College Essay Mentoring
Personal narrative is harder than it looks, whether it is a prompt from the common app, or question unique to your college of choice. It needs to stand out, which requires a willingness to share yourself honestly with your reader, while at the same time telling a meaningful, compelling story. Students can come prepared with essays already in progress, or we can brainstorm together to come up with just the right subject for a unique, creative and thoughtful college essay.
