This course is an invitation to explore the captivating genre of Gothic fiction. Together, we'll learn about the origins of the Gothic; the genre's shipshfiting into a variety of literary forms (from ghost stories to horror fiction to weird fiction) and the conventions and hallmarks of the genre. After studying the origins and evolution of the gothic, students will read modern gothic writing to learn how its contemporary interpretations frequently challenge power structures and the status quo. Readings and generative prompts will allow students to play with craft elements of the gothic and to explore how gothic themes might be woven into their writing.

Open to writers of all genres and forms of the novel, this intensive revision course is best for writers who find themselves either stuck in the middle of drafting their novel or for writers who have a complete novel draft but don't know where to begin revising, beginning with understanding your project's core. We’ll then move to an assessment of where to lean in and where to let go, and we’ll use exploratory and generative exercises to either help you keep going to the end or to augment existing scene work, character work, and narrative movement.

Moderator, “Devilish Obsessions” panel with Constance Sayers (The Star and the Strange Moon) and Ananda Lima (Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil). More info.

Jumpstart your writing in this fast-paced generative workshop that will help you shake off your inner editor and put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). If you’ve been uninspired in your creativity lately, feel like your work could use a jolt, or just want to give yourself dedicated writing time, this session is structured to encourage creativity and playfulness.

This online four-hour session pulls back the curtain on the ins and outs of publishing, and will be especially useful for beginner writers just starting out and those who feel ready to plunge into the depths.

Editor’s Panel and Speed Dating with the Editor at this annual conference hosted by Barrelhouse at American University in Washington, DC.

Panelist at the Conversation & Connections Conference sponsored by Barrelhouse and hosted at George Mason University.

Panelist at the Conversation & Connections Conference sponsored by Barrelhouse and hosted at George Mason University.

College Essay Writing with DC Public Schools and DC Charter Schools at The White House.

Ekphrastic writing workshop for adults and teens in conjunction with the exhibit “In Your Words: Reimagined Journeys.”