As part of the BBC Novels That Shaped Our World project, Derbyshire Libraries are pleased to present this online working workshop via Zoom with local author Anna Stuart.

Have you always fancied writing a novel, short story or memoir? Are you looking for ways to get started? This friendly workshop from local author Anna Stuart will show you how to put pen to paper in an effective way, taking you through stimulating creativity, facing the blank page, and turning your own experiences into something of value for readers. Anna will also cover the vital basics of structure in short stories, novels and memoirs – everything you need to finally get started on that writing project in 2021.

Anna Stuart wanted to be an author from the moment she could pick up a pen and was writing boarding-school novels behind the sofa by the age of nine. She made the early mistake of thinking she ought to get a ‘proper job’ and went into Factory Planning – a career that gave her some wonderful experiences, amazing friends and even a fantastic husband, but did not offer much creative scope. So when she stopped to have children she took the chance to start the ‘improper job’ of writing. 'Bonnie and Stan', her first novel, is a tale of how love matures, set in Liverpool in both the modern day and the swinging sixties. 'Four Minutes to Save a Life' is a timely tale of how a quiet delivery driver unites three lonely people in a quest to make their lives better that may ultimately cost him his own...

Anna also writes historical fiction as Joanna Courtney

This workshop is aimed at adults .

You will be emailed a Zoom link to the workshop nearer the time.

BBC Novels That Shaped Our World Project

An exciting new programme of library activities, events and partnerships designed to celebrate the novel and promote the joy of reading, particularly to new and diverse audiences. The programme is funded by Arts Council England and supported by the BBC’s local radio stations. Derbyshire Libraries are exploring the theme of 'isolation' and will be launching a writing competition on 1st February 2021 aimed at anyone who lives within the administrative boundaries of Derbyshire County Council and are aged 16 years and above. Further details can be found on our website here.