More dates, scroll down / Free your creativity and get started on your book

An inspiring weekend workshop with writing coach and book editor Philippa Pride, who has worked with bestselling authors such as Stephen King.

Learn to overcome self-doubt, develop your voice and become a more disciplined writer at this two-day masterclass with writing coach and book editor Philippa Pride.

Suitable for writers of all skill levels, this inspiring class will cover techniques to help you channel your inner creativity, even when inspiration is running dry.

Over the course of the weekend, you’ll take part in practical exercises that will help you craft a compelling narrative, plan and structure your book.

You will also receive professional feedback in a supportive group environment, and leave the course able to spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the writing process.

Course content

• Setting goals and a writing schedule to suit your life
• Exercises for creativity: how to find your unique voice, switch off your inner critic and enjoy the writing process
• How to shape your book and create “narrative drive”
• How to create compelling plots, characters and dialogue
• Visualisations: the magic of imagery and metaphor
• Structuring your book: the benefits of a chapter breakdown
• Moving from concept to final draft
• Writing exercises, group discussion and Q&A

Tutor profile

Philippa Pride has been running creative writing courses since 2006, combining her skills as a certified neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) master practitioner and coach with her inside knowledge of the publishing industry. Before setting up her own consultancy business, The Book Doctor, Philippa was a commissioning editor for Hodder. She continues her connection with Hodder as British editor for bestselling author Stephen King.

Testimonials

"There was a really great energy in the room. The course attracted an interesting mix of people who were easy to engage with and Philippa set a positive tempo from the outset."

"I found [Philippa] both an inspiration and a pleasure, and she made each and every one of us feel valued."

"I thought the masterclass with Philippa was faultless. It exceeded my expectations in every way – in its content; structure; the professional way in which it was run; the friendliness of the Guardian staff; in the warm and very supportive atmosphere of the classroom and most of all in Philippa’s exceptional ability to teach, guide and inspire."

All Guardian Masterclasses are fully accessible - but please contact us if you have any queries or concerns.

Full course and returns information on the Masterclasses website