Teaching

​Engage the reader from the first word. Authors who write literary nonfiction use literary techniques common in fiction writing to immerse the reader rather than merely presenting facts.

Like in fiction books, great nonfiction writing draws the reader in from the start. This workshop will address how fiction writing techniques can create more engaging and impactful nonfiction writing.

Pitching your book is one of the most important things you’ll do as an author. A memorable pitch can help a book go a long way in a crowded marketplace. It’s a concise, one or two sentences used to sell your book to an editor, agent, and eventually to readers. This workshop will give tips on how to create a killer pitch.

Sometimes the writing journey feels like you’re not in Kansas anymore because you’re not. Understanding the terms used in the industry can help your writer’s journey become less scary. This workshop will address and define writing terms.

One of the biggest struggles new writers face is how to find their writing voice. It’s also the key to unlocking their creative potential. Spending time deliberating over voice is worth your attention and focus. No matter what you write—fiction or nonfiction—your voice is essential. Take time to learn your unique voice.

Writing from a Christian perspective presents numerous challenges. We still need to be bold and write what God has put on our hearts to write, but at the same time we need to seriously consider how we address issues concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access. How you do your research, integrate into the communities you are researching, and engage in ethical storytelling all contribute to an improvement in representation of marginalized communities.
This workshop will offer tools for writers to shed light on issues and experiences that may be unfamiliar to some readers and foster a sense of understanding and connection through their writing.

Ephesians 6 reminds us to put on the entire armor of God. Why? To prepare for battle. As writers if we are going to run our race with excellence we need to put on a writer's armor. The stories we pen today can impact generations to come and that’s a huge responsibility. No wonder we’re under attack. This workshop will introduce the different parts of a writer’s armor as it relates to the armor of God and what it means to put it on.

Struggling to find the right words is a common challenge for writers, regardless of their level of experience. When you hit a writing wall, often referred to as writer’s block, it can feel more like hitting a Great Wall of China-type obstacle. There are many exercises and techniques to help overcome this obstacle. The goal is to uncover the spark that can reignite creativity and move from a standstill to a productive writing journey. 

“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein

Creativity isn’t a lightning bolt that strikes occasionally, and it can’t be predicted: it’s more like a muscle. Creativity needs to be trained, challenged, and worked on constantly to develop your skills. This workshop will address some of the obstacles and benefits of being a creative and ways to build your creative muscle.

God has given writers a powerful tool to use—our words. Lives are impacted by what we say and what we write. As authors we have the potential to change the world, reach generations to come, and help a hurting and racially divided nation one word at a time. Join me as we look at the danger and power of words.