Creative Writing

NEW CLASS!

One of my student’s parents from Reading Selections expressed interest in having me teach Creative Writing as well.  After much consideration, I have put together the tentative beginnings of a semi-structured curriculum that will explore written expression through short stories and poetry.

Goal:  Assemble a small group of young people, approximate ages between 8 to 13, of varying skill levels to meet for 1 1/2 to 2 hours twice a month.  We will discuss what stories we like, what makes a story captivating, and explore different styles of poetry.  All genres and interests welcome.  We will practice different styles of writing, share our work, and give constructive feedback.   I will spend some time with each student to go over editorial suggestions to help them improve their writing skills and, I hope, to help them see the joys of expression through written media.

Maximum class size: 8 students.

Location:  Meeting places may vary depending on availability, but will center between Woodinville/Kenmore/Bothell areas. A student’s house (Kenmore), a library (Kenmore or Woodinville) or Third Place Books are all possibilities.

Days/Times:  While I wish to work with all families interested to find a suitable time, I recommend 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month from September through May. Exact times to be determined by the group (and not posted to the public).

Fee:  I request $10 per meeting ($20 per month), or $14 per month for the year paid in advance.  Further discounts possible for paying for multiple months in advance, or multiple students in one family.  Trades or other arrangements can be made for eager families without resources.

Qualifications:  I’m a homeschooling parent with ten years of teaching experience (five of which involved teaching other people’s children literature and art).  I started writing at the age of five and published my first poem in 5th grade.  At the time of this writing, I have two published poetry collections and a novelette.  My first novel, Perdition, debuted in March 2017.  I have written numerous advice columns and articles for online magazines, and maintain a few blogs.

Writing is the “family business.”  My mother wrote for magazines and co-authored a book, her father was a comedy screenwriter for television and head writer for the Garry Moore Show, and her mother wrote copy for Macy’s and taught English.  My grandmother’s father wrote as a journalist for William Randolph Hearst.

Contact: If you and your child(ren) are interested in participating in a small group creative writing class twice month, please email me at ravendemers@gmail.com with the subject: “Creative Writing class.”

Thank you for your interest!