About Erik Esckilsen's Workshop

“When you get to the fork in the road, take it.”
—Yogi Berra, storyteller, Major League baseball player

Decisions, decisions, decisions...

In life, it is said, one thing happens after another. In stories, it is also said, one thing happens because of another. No matter what happens, the story won’t go on until a character makes a decision. In fact, we might look at stories as a series of decisions—some monumental, some incidental—that give the narrative shape and direction.

In my workshop on March 20 at YWP's headquarters at Champlain Mill, we'll explore the art and craft of writing stories through the lens of decisions that characters confront—and make—as they travel that arc that keeps readers reading. You'll try several dynamic approaches to crafting compelling narratives rich with dramatic decisions. And you'll leave humming with ideas!

WHO AM I?

I'm Erik Esckilsen, the author of three novels for young readers: visit http://www.erikeesckilsen.com/books.html for details. I'm also a writing teacher at Champlain College, where lately I've been working on a team to develop an electronic game that blends a soccer simulation with a social message discouraging violence against women. It's going to be entertaining AND educational. Talk about a creative challenge....

I've conducted writing workshops with teenagers all over the country and even in Japan, and I'm excited to work with some of you from the Young Writers Project from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. on Saturday, March 20. Hope to see you there!

Please let me know by message or email as to whether you'll be coming. And please let Geoff Gevalt know as well by copying him on the message or email.