Get Them Writing: Hosting a Writing Workshop for Teens

93% of teens write for their own pleasure “Writing, Technology and Teens” by Amanda Lenhart, Sousan Arafeh, Aaron Smith & Alexandra MacGill Pew Research Center, April 24,

Why a writing workshop?

Before contacting authors organize a committee, if necessary decide location for workshop select a date and time for workshop determine format of workshop set a budget

Finding speakers think local, but cast a wide net don’t forget newspaper reporters, bloggers, etc. make sure your speakers are comfortable around teens

Our chosen writers Mary Lindsey, “Green Eyed Monsters & Hot Pink Boots” photo by Brittany Hammond

Our chosen writers Trakena Prevost, “How To Write a Killer Fight Scene”

Our chosen writers Russ McAfee, “How Writers Use Their Skills in the Job Market”

Our chosen writers Donna Maloy, “Major Plotting Models”

Our chosen writers Haley Gompertz, “If I Can Do It, So Can You”

Spreading the word signs, bookmarks and word-of-mouth newspaper press releases blasts schools

Organizing for The Day contact speakers for presentation details & bios send driving directions to speakers set up registration site make sure coffee and refreshments are available prepare door prizes signs for the library staff volunteers gather thank-you gifts for speakers

Handouts for participants brochure writing resources upcoming writing-related events evaluation form door prize ticket

Promoting the library writing books online resources

The Day driving authors what went right what went wrong out to supper

Comments from teens “great, loved writer’s opinions” “Major Plotting Models. I never thought of those ways to do it” “They were both equally useful b/c they soon filled in each other & tied into each other” “How To Write a Killer Fight Scene was the most interesting because it made me realize that I need use more details in my writing.” “I like the killer fight sign because that’s what I’m interested in.” all comments are as written by the teens

Biggest complaints “Ability to see all sessions” “I would have loved to attend all five of the sessions.” all comments are as written by the teens

Ideas for the future writing ideas character development advice about agents, publishing, etc. drawing book clubs reading workshops

Thank you for coming! Sara K Joiner children’s coordinator Brazoria County Library System sarakjoiner.com October 2015 published by Holiday House