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How to write stories for children with Laura Dockrill

By The Guardian Masterclasses

Date and time

Sunday, February 5, 2017 · 10am - 4pm GMT

Location

The Guardian

Kings Place 90 York Way London N1 9GU United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organizer to request a refund.

Description

Discover how to stop worrying, unlock creativity and enjoy the writing process at this one-day workshop with acclaimed children’s author Laura Dockrill

Whether you want to write for your own children or relatives, or for publication, this beginner-level class will teach you how to unlock creativity and find the fun in writing. During the class, you’ll get involved in practical writing activities, which will help you to write stories that children will love.

Over the course of the day, Laura Dockrill, author of the much-loved Darcy Burdock books for children, will show you how to use your own experiences and philosophies to create compelling characters and stories. You’ll leave the class with a newfound confidence in your writing skills, as well as your ability to keep a young audience captivated by your storytelling.

Content

  • How to stop worrying and enjoy the writing process
  • Practical advice and techniques to help you get started on your story
  • Finding your writing voice
  • How to draw up your own life experiences, memories and philosophies in your writing
  • Coming up with ideas – and developing your ideas into a story
  • Creating characters and transplanting them into incredible adventures
  • How to approach tone and style using memories and maps
  • Writing exercises with opportunity for feedback on work carried out during the class
  • Q&A and discussion

Tutor profile

Laura Dockrill is a writer, illustrator and performance poet whose work includes Lorali and the acclaimed Darcy Burdock books for children. In addition to her work as a writer and creative writing tutor, she’s been a roaming reporter for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize and performed her work on Newsnight, BBC Breakfast and BBC Woman’s Hour. She tweets @LauraDockrill.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website

Organized by

Welcome to Guardian Masterclasses – a unique programme of learning embedded within one of the world's most forward-thinking media organisations.

We offer a broad range of short and long courses across a variety of disciplines from creative writing, journalism, photography and design, film and digital media, music and cultural appreciation.

Harnessing the expertise and specialisms within the organisation, our courses are led by first class and award winning guardian professionals whilst also drawing on the skills and expertise of other leading figures at the forefront of the creative and digital industries.

The programme is aimed at anyone interested in personal or professional development whether that be refining your skills, focusing your ambition or simply broadening your mind and gaining inspiration.

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