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“I loved the teen sessions. My faculty critiques were wonderful—
instructors read with a teen’s eyes and wit! I’m ready to write
at a deeper level than ever before.” — Rachel, age 16 |
Perks
 Have you ever wondered what it takes to get a novel published—what your favorite authors must do to (finally) get their dream-stories into your hands? Do you often find fictional characters fascinating (at least as irresistible as real ones)? Do you have a story to tell?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then our workshop may be perfect for you! Our enrollees are bookworms and/or writers who take these passions to a higher level—and enjoy doing it with intergenerational participants.
Our workshop also helps adults improve and publish novels for teens and tweens. You can make a lasting difference in this process—and also make leaps in your mastery of story or memoir writing.
FLASH: TeenSpeak Novel Workshops are a smashing success! 
Every year since 2009, we’ve welcomed a cozy group of nationwide teens. They join adults who, like you, love reading and discussing YA novels. Each generation benefits from the critiques and comments of the other. Come enjoy “volumes” of educational, social, and recreational opportunities at our beachfront event.  LIKE us on our TeenSpeak  page!
Here’s what you can “take home” from our workshop:
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Discover how to enjoy stories (novels, movies, TV) more than ever. Dive into
our animated college-level discussions and diverse hands-on activities. |
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Be the author or critiquer
of books that rock! |
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Capture behind-the-scenes glimpses of editors, agents, and writers who
collaborate to publish the novels you love to read. |
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Try your hand at brief written critiques of adults’ novels for teens (you choose the chapters, or entire novels). Some of these novels are headed for publication—your feedback can make a difference. To sharpen your editing skills and critique adults’ manuscripts year-round for cash, visit TeenSpeak Critiques. |
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(Optional) Receive your own fiction or memoir critique by TeenSpeak faculty, adult enrollees, and/or peers. PLUS: Volunteer to receive editor and agent feedback on at least one page of your story—on our friendly “stage.” |
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Enjoy teens-only discussions about fiction techniques, insider’s tips, and
more. |
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After the workshop, request a letter of
recommendation from the director to boost your future academic or
job applications. |
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(Optional; variable years) Attend our Personal Essay session, to brainstorm your college application or make it stellar. And/or polish your piece to submit to a teen publication. |
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Meet new friends—readers and writers who “get” you! See their testimonials.
Here’s one that goes beyond the sheer fun of interacting with book-loving peers:
“At the TeenSpeak Novel Workshop, my opinion was valued. Adult writers cared what I thought about
their novels’ characters and plot lines. I wasn’t just a dumb teenager in their eyes; I was a sample of
readers they hoped to attract. The concept intrigues me. It makes sense. Adults often critique adult-written
YA novels, but how can these authors know if their books will appeal to their target audience unless they
seek teens’ opinions?” — Carrie, in her college application essay (now a graduate of Princeton) |
“My writing was the one thing that whispered okayness in my ear.”
— Markus Zusak, Getting the Girl |
Enter the portal ... to more details! »
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20 years of Master Class to Masterpiece