Saturday, 13 September

The Art of the Short Story

Learn the craft of short fiction in this monthly workshop series, ending with a printed anthology of your published stories.

By Ken Preston

Date and time

Location

Kingswinford Library

Market Street Kingswinford DY6 9LG United Kingdom

Good to know

Highlights

2 hours
Ages 18+
In person
Paid venue parking

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

Only Three Spaces Left!

Learn how to craft powerful, memorable short fiction in a welcoming, small-group setting.

Over ten monthly workshops, we’ll explore the key elements of short story writing — structure, character, dialogue, theme, and more — while also looking at published examples, responding to imaginative prompts, and sharing our work in supportive critique sessions.

Whether you’re a beginner or a returning writer, this course will help you deepen your craft, build confidence, and finish a story you’re proud of.

At the end of the programme, each participant will have at least one finished story professionally published in a printed group anthology.

What You’ll Get:

10 two-hour in-person workshops
Guided writing exercises and take-home prompts
Story critiques and group discussion
One-to-one feedback from Ken
A printed anthology featuring your work

Dates:

13th September 2025

4th October 2025

8th November 2025

6th December 2025

10th January 2026

14th February 2026

21st March 2026

25th April 2026

23 May 2026

27th June 2026

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be an experienced writer to join?

Not at all. This course is suitable for both beginners and returning writers. You just need a willingness to explore, learn, and write.

Will there be homework?

Yes, but the good kind! You’ll get prompts and suggestions to continue writing between sessions. You can do as little or as much as you like.

What if I miss a session?

Life happens. If you miss a session, I’ll make sure you get the materials and a brief recap. You won’t fall behind.

How many stories do I need to write?

One fully edited short story for the final anthology is the goal — but you’ll likely write several drafts and scenes along the way.

What’s included in the price?

Ten in-person workshops, all resources, personalised feedback, and a printed copy of the final anthology featuring your story.

Are pen and paper supplied?

No, please bring your own writing materials, whether you write on paper or a laptop.

Will my story definitely be published?

Yes — provided it’s completed and ready by the final deadline. I’ll work with you to make sure it is.

Organised by

Ken Preston

Ken Preston is an author and creative writing workshop leader.

He writes horror, young adult and romance novels and leads creative writing workshops for adults, teenagers and primary school-age children.

He is also a public speaker at universities and charity events.

Ken is a registered Arts Award Adviser, a member of the National Association of Writers in Education, and the Association of Speakers Club.