This course consists of 8 x Thursday evening sessions from 6:30pm – 8:30pm AEST/ AEDT.
Session 1: Thursday, 3 September
Australian YA
In this intro week we dive right into the nitty-gritty of Australian YA to look at trends, tropes, audiences, rules (are there rules?) and rulebreakers. Importantly, we consider where you and your story fits into the wider landscape of Australian stories for young people and ask: What do you want to write and why do you want to write it?
Session 2: Thursday, 10 September
Characters
This week we’ll delve into character development and ask: Who are your characters and what drives them? What are the defining experiences that guide their thinking? Who supports them or thwarts them? How can we give them agency, and why is that important in YA? In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
Session 3: Thursday, 17 September
Plot
How do you develop a plot that really packs a punch for teen readers? This week we’ll consider how to craft a plot that appeals to even the pickiest of young people, and how to refine your ideas to create a story that stands out from the pack. In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
Session 4: Thursday, 24 September
Structure
This week we’ll look at outlining, story beats and frameworks, and focus on how to ensure your plot contains rising tension and solid pacing, qualities that are vital in YA. In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
COURSE BREAK
Please note, all following classes will be held at AEDT.
Session 5: Thursday, 15 October
Dialogue
With the rapid way teen language evolves, it can be hard to write authentic dialogue for teen characters without it dating quickly. This week we look at creating rich and impactful dialogue that lasts, as well as exploring how dialogue works to further plot and character. In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
Session 6: Thursday, 22 October
Voice and Point of View
‘Voice’ is often the number one craft element publishers identify when asked what they look for in a good story. But what makes a voice engaging and how do you craft it? How do you choose the ideal POV character to tell your story? This week we’ll uncover concrete ways to craft an engaging voice, unlock the importance of creating a unique character perspective and look at why authenticity of voice is so vital. In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
Session 7: Thursday, 29 October
Place and space
In adolescence all worlds pulse with both enchantment and risk. This week we look at setting and world-building for YA stories, mapping out the limitations, logistics and possibilities of your story worlds. In the second half of the lesson, we will workshop an extract from two manuscripts-in-progress from the class.
Session 8: Thursday, 5 November
Where to next? With special guest
In our last class we’ll make a plan that goes beyond the course. We’ll think about the best ways forward. What stands between us and our finished manuscript? What tips or tricks or routines might serve us? What does publication actually look like? How do we find our place in the current industry?
The content listed is comprehensive but is a guide only. The exact course content could be adjusted according to the experience and concerns of the group and availability of guest writers. The detail of the course is at the discretion of the course director and Faber Writing Academy at Allen & Unwin.
