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Anyone Can Write Fiction
When was the last time you read a novel and said, “I could do better than that?”  Whether you are interested in short stories or novels, genre fiction (mysteries, romance, sci-fi, fantasy) or mainstream, this workshop will give you the basic tools needed to get jump-start your writing.  Learn how to create characters, select point-of-view, write dialogue, structure a plot, and more!  A cram course in fiction writing for the beginner!  Bring your pen and paper and be prepared to write--this workshop includes lots of exercises to get you writing.  Don’t wait any longer—start that story today! 

You CAN Do It - Grammar Basics
Presentation of your thoughts on paper directly reflects your credibility.  As a first impression or as an on-going reflection of your trustworthiness, knowledge of current grammar and punctuation is essential.  Do I need comma before but?  Is it who or whom?  There or their or they’re?  How do I clean up bloated writing?  Is it e-mail or E-mail?  Whether you write for your job, for your own business, or you want to make a living by writing, this workshop is for you.  Grammar has trends and the rules do change—everyone needs a refresher course now and then.  Come and brush up those writing skills!

Intro to Mystery Writing
Great class for all fiction writers interested in mysteries or just adding mystery and suspense to their stories. The dark side of life and the search for truth and justice is fascinating and intriguing background for any writer. In this workshop, we’ll discuss favorite mystery novels, and cover the various types of mysteries, the basic components of a mystery, research sources, and how you can get started writing your novel. Participants should read Sue Grafton’s C is for Corpse before class.

Anyone Can Write Fiction Part II
This workshop is a opportunity for aspiring fiction writers to bring works in-progress for review and work on specific problem areas.  Class will also cover a review of basic fiction writing techniques, writing exercises, and tips for preparing your manuscript for submission.  Workshop is designed to provide a forum to ask questions about writing and publication, and offer support during the writing process.  Students will learn about self-editing and how to critique others’ work.  For students who have taken a previous fiction writing class and/or have completed a short story or part of a novel.

Check out classes and register on-line!
Cascadia Community College http://www.cascadia.edu/class_schedules_catalogs/search_continuing_education_classes.aspx

North Seattle Community College
www.learnatnorth.org

All workshops taught by Leslie Adkins. Leslie is a well-received writing instructor at numerous locations around the Pacific Northwest. She has written seven novels, five of them mysteries. Her non-fiction has appeared in many local and national publications. Leslie is a former board member for Pacific Northwest Writers Association and a previous contest winner for that organization, as well as a Write On The Sound Steering committee member. Leslie continues working on writing mystery novels and sharing her passion for writing with others.

Call each individual college’s venue to register at least four days before the start of any workshop to avoid cancellations! Questions? E-mail lesliejadkins@live.com

 Quotes from Leslie’s  writing students:

"(Anyone Can Write Fiction) exceeded my expectations!"

“I’ve taken classes from Leslie Adkins before and find her outstanding always… and again!”

 “I like the mix of activities—lectures, critiquing others writing, and especially the writing exercises.” 

 “I got a lot out of this class—theory, discussion of other’s writing, and a reason to write!” 

 “The writing exercises helped me to shut down my critical mind and let my imagination do what it’s meant to do.” 

“Reading my writing for the class was extremely valuable.” 

“Motivation and inventive was very valuable.  I found the writing exercises to be valuable and motivating.”

© Leslie Adkins 2005,
All rights reserved

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