Short courses

Summary

‘If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then’ says novelist Toni Morrison, ‘you must write it.’ But where to start? Writing a novel can be an epic undertaking, particularly if you are new to writing or this is your first book. You start bursting with ideas, but over time learning as you go can be a bit daunting. 

Join this practical and encouraging course to give your book the best possible start (or restart) on your novel-writing journey. Learn how to create engaging characters, set up a strong narrative structure and invite readers into a compelling story. Find out the helpful habits and tips that will keep you writing. Feel supported to write more and learn from sharing what you write.  

Over a series of welcoming talks, close-readings and approachable writing exercises, our expert tutor will explain: 

• The key features of novels and how to start writing one 
• how to apply these ideas and techniques to your own writing 
• how to share what you’ve written with others and improve with feedback  

You will also have the chance to discuss and reflect on what you learn with other students and the tutor in seminars. 

Choose this course if you want to learn: 

• the basics of what makes novels work 
• key techniques to help you write novels 
• how to share your work and improve with mutual feedback 
• (for those who submit for assessment) how to improve with written feedback, how to reflect on your writing process