It is often said that learning to write well is a life-long pursuit. That writers should never cease improving their craft. I think every writer understands this simple truth.
There are many books, classes, and on-line sources that will help you improve your storytelling craft. But where can you learn directly from the best? From New York Times bestselling and award-winning authors? That’s a bit more problematic.
We at ITW have been accomplishing this for years through CraftFest, an integral part of our annual meeting, ThrillerFest. Each year, we assemble the giants of the thriller world to help students improve as writers and storytellers.
Now ITW has developed a new program to help writers continue their growth: Thriller School, ITW’s new on-line craft school.
In this seven-week program, which begins April 7, 2014, the craft of thriller writing will be front and center. Each instructor will teach an aspect of craft though a podcast, written materials that include further reading and study suggestions, and an entire week of on-line Q&A with the registered students. The goal is simple: To make each student a better writer.
We are very excited about this new endeavor. I think you will be also. Here is the schedule for the inaugural program:
Storytelling: What Makes A Good Story?—Steven James
Voice: Who’s Telling the Tale?—DP Lyle
Character: Who Are These People and Where Did They Come From?—Andrew Gross
Plot: Not Just One Damn Thing After Another—Gayle Lynds
Point Of View: Who’s Driving The Scene?—Bob Dugoni
Dialog: What Are Your Characters Really Saying?—Linwood Barclay
Setting, Mood, Atmosphere: What’s the “Feel” of Your Story?—Heather Graham
Please join us and let us help you take your writing and storytelling to the next level.
Hope to “see” you there.
DP Lyle
ITW VP for Education & Members Services
CraftFest Director
The Crime Fiction Writer's Blog 