Unforgettable Characters: Create fictional people who feel real

Class Instructor: Mandy Keskes

Class Date: Sept. 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20

Class Time: 7:00–8:30 PM

Class Size: 10-12 students

Age Group: Grades 7–12

Location: Online via Zoom; link to be provided the week before the class.

Have you ever finished a book and wished you could be friends in real life with the characters? How do authors create characters that feel so real? In this four-week class, you’ll learn the tricks and tools authors use to craft compelling characters that feel like they could jump off the page.

Students will practice crafting authentic dialogue, learn what interiority is and how to include it in their own writing, and practice the art of both showing and telling. Each class will include a warm-up prompt, mini lesson, class discussion, and engaging writing exercises. 

By the course’s end, each student will leave class with several pieces of flash fiction featuring dynamic characters.

All students will have the opportunity to publish their work in the 2027 NWS Literary Journal.