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Q: Is this workshop only for working on novels?

A: All fiction needs well-developed characters so if you’re working on short stories, this deep dive into character and consideration of narrative arc could certainly help your work. It’s truly ideal, however, for anyone with a novel idea or a work-in-process or simply a character who keeps hanging around who you want to start talking to. I teach using the traditional narrative arc (sometimes called the Aristotelian structure) which I believe can be super helpful for beginning novelists. But if you are working on a less traditional structure, this might not be the workshop for you (except, of course, for the essential value of exploring character). In that case, check out Jane Allison’s excellent Meander, Spiral, Explode: Design and Pattern in Narrative and stay tuned for other classes that you might find more useful. 

Q: Do I have to share my work?

A: Nope! While I do believe that sharing fresh work helps us to grow by allowing us to hear what we’ve put down on the page in the moment (it’s not so bad after all!) and teaching us to trust and appreciate having our stories heard, I also don’t insist. We are adults after all! If you do share, be assured that I strive to create a safe environment in which we do not critique fresh work: instead, we support what shines. 

Q: Why you? 

A: I’ve written award-winning short stories and two tightly-plotted novels (with a third in process) in which my characters act on their desires, face obstacles, and ultimately arrive at transformation. This Has Nothing To Do With You, my last novel, won the Margaret Laurence Award for Fiction and my first novel, Swarm, was longlisted for CBC Canada Reads as one of the nation’s Top 40 Books that Could Change Canada.

I have an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph, where I intensely studied the process of building character-driven plot with my mentor, Susan Swan, during the writing of Swarm. My learning and experience are hard won, and I love sharing what I know in direct manuscript critique, during Writer-in-Residence positions (currently at the Winnipeg Public Library), and while teaching at retreats and in workshops.

I also have a certificate in Teaching and Training Adult Learners, have taught in universities and colleges, and regularly facilitate professional writing workshops for MCCA, a Winnipeg workplace training organization. 

Q: What if I already have a novel draft and I want more help?

A: Check out my brand new Novel Coaching Program. Over four months, I’ll provide you with accountability, weekly lessons geared to your challenges, developmental edits, ZOOM discussion calls, and email support to help you make real progress through the revision process. 

Q: What if I’m brand new to writing?

A: As long as you are actively writing fiction – and not just ‘intending’ to write – the workshop should make sense to you (and you can always ask questions!). If you are trying to get started with a practice, though, I recommend beginning with my online self-directed video course, Nine Simple Steps To A Solid Writing Practice.  

I just wanted to write to tell you that the workshop today has been invaluable to me. I came out with so much more knowledge than I had going in, and I am feeling really inspired to jump into my characters. I thought Lauren was phenomenal! Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop! –Teresa Witkowskyj 

An inspirational day that helped me get in touch with my character’s motivations and to move forward with confidence. – Susanne McLarty

Before I did my critique session with Lauren I wasn’t sure if I’d ever finish my novel. My revisions weren’t going well and I had encountered several structural problems I didn’t know how to resolve. After meeting with Lauren I feel excited about it again. She was incredibly insightful and helped me build confidence in my creative process. She provided me with the tools, knowledge and resources I need to restructure my novel. Lauren also helped me create a clear plan I can follow to accomplish my goals without feeling so overwhelmed. – E. B. Page 

AMAZING!!! I’m so happy I took the day and attended this retreat! It was a fantastic way to reconnect with my writing, practice some yoga, and immerse myself in a wonderful, creative, supportive environment. This writing retreat arrived at a perfect time for me, even though I didn’t know I needed it. I would highly recommend it! – Lindsey Henley

Before the retreat, I was a little bit nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. Lauren and Kerry created such a warm and caring environment. Over the course of the day, I felt more connected to myself than I have for a very long time. I would recommend this retreat for all women wanting to explore themselves, connect with themselves, and give themselves LOVE. – Avery Eramchuk 

What a safe a gentle way to approach your inner writer. Thoughtful, creative space provided. Kerry and Lauren are wonderful. – Kelly 

Wild Writing in the Boreal blew my expectations through the roof! The entire weekend was so full of love, honesty, and beautiful writing. Both Lauren and Donna are amazing, talented women that we are all lucky to be learning from. Never have I felt so grounded at a retreat, and I am walking away feeling knowledgable and motivated. – Kiera Anderson

Before the retreat, I always thought that writers were “other” people. Being a writer was something I didn’t think was attainable for someone like me. Listening to other stories that people wrote and sharing helped me realize that I can be a writer. – Marni Fisher

"This course, visually beautiful and wise, has helped me to re-connect with my writing. I’m back at it again. Next time I stray, I know I’ll have this course in my back pocket to help me return.” – Angie Gallop

"I love your writing course! I started it way back, and have kept going back to it...it is very forgiving that way. It has gotten me to the point where from not writing at all, except for my editorial for the paper once every two months, i have a spot to write, and sit down each morning and write for an hour! I am working on two different projects! THANK YOU for helping me find my creative side again, after so many years! It has also encouraged me to move away from arts admin and into editing and writing for a living. So much thanks to you!" - Anna Proctor

"Lauren's online class was precisely the tonic I needed to re-ignite my writing practice. I listened to these nine sessions in my car on the way to work and looked forward every morning to the encouragement and counsel she provided. Through personal stories, anecdotes, quotes and practical tips, Lauren's coaching inspired me to identify my writing goals and commit to them. I recommend this course to anyone who needs an extra nudge to start new works or to keep going with existing projects." - Cheryl Sadowski