You Ought to Write a Book

You Ought to Write a Book is aimed at the first-time author who has a story to tell but doesn’t know where to begin. Workshop participants will learn the difference between traditional publishing and self-publishing and the advantages of each. They’ll explore what’s behind their desire to write, refine their story idea, and learn about the importance of a story arc. They’ll become conversant in the basics of outlining their story and the importance of keeping a writing deadline. They’ll also learn writing tricks, like how to bust through “writer’s block,” as well as the importance of writers’ groups and early readers. Participants can expect to learn how to sell their book once it’s done: How to write a book proposal; how to shop for a literary agent or a traditional publisher, or whether to self-publish their book instead.

What to expect at a glance:

• A better understanding of the elements of a writing practice
• Basic techniques to start writing and keep writing
• Insight into the different types of publishing available to you today as an author 

Robrt Pela is a Pulliam Prize-winning journalist and a longtime cultural critic whose essays appear regularly on National Public Radio affiliate KJZZ. In his spare time, he collects and restores old houses.