Shut Up and Write!

Updated: January/February 2007 Class Schedule

2006-12-27T17:11:00.000-08:00

1. Intro to Non-fiction Seminar - Saturday, Jan. 13, 10 a.m to 2 p.m., $50
One day only, no homework or prerequisite, overview of my approach to creative non-fiction writing, perfect way to get your feet wet before four-week class; also good refresher if you've already taken 101. (Only $25 if taken with a four-week class)

2. Creative Non-Fiction 202 - Four Wednesdays, Jan. 17 - Feb. 7, 6 to 8 p.m., $100
For those who have taken 101 and want to continue into the second four weeks.
Weekly writing and critiques.

3. Creative Non-Fiction 101 - Four Wednesdays, starting Feb. 21, 6 to 8 p.m. (skips week of spring break), $100
No prerequisite, although the Intro seminar will give you a headstart. Weekly writing and critiques.

4. Get on the list now for my next opinion seminar ($50) and later 101 classes -- both are unscheduled as of now, but likely to happen in March.

*** Remember, the only way to secure your spot in a class is by sending your deposit of half the fee. E-mail class@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the tentative list and for where to send your deposit. ***

All classes meet in Fondren in Jackson, Miss.

Give the Gift of Writing!

2006-12-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

I offer gift certificates for my writing classes that are perfect for someone on your list who can't, or won't, sign up for themselves—but who has wanted to write their whole lives! Gift them the gift of permission.

You can buy gift certificates in any amount—either the full fee or an amount to help them offset the cost of the classes. My Saturday seminars are $50 each; four-week classes are $100, or $125 for both. The next intro Saturday seminar will be held Jan. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. The next 101 four-week class starts in February. (The next 202 class starts in January, if you or your giftee has taken the 101 class already; that one is also $100.)

The gift certificates can apply to any classes I teach in 2007, including opinion seminars or a possible upcoming book-proposal class.

If you're interested, call me at 601.362.6121, or e-mail class@jacksonfreepress.com .

Happy Holidays!

Writing Classes - December through February

2006-10-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

We've got a packed 101 class going on for November now, and I'm working on the schedule for my upcoming slate of classes and wanted to gauge your interest.

NOVEMBER
Saturday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Opinion-writing seminar (this is filling up, but I have a few slots left), $50

DECEMBER
I've had several people ask me if I'm doing a Saturday intro to non-fiction seminar in December. December is a tough month, but bI can if I get at least four students who can commit to a Saturday workshop. I'm considering Dec. 9; let me know if you're interested, and we'll see if we can put it together. ($50, or $25 if you sign up for four-week 101 class—total for both is $125).

JANUARY
OK, the cycle starts over:

Saturday, Jan. 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Intro to non-fiction writing, $50 (or $25 with 101 class)
Wednesday, Jan. 17 - Feb. 7, 6 to 8 p.m. - Creative non-fiction writing 101 workshop, $100 (this one is filling up fast; I already have several deposits, so move on this one if you want to get in.)

FEBRUARY
(tentative, depending on interest)
Wednesday, Feb. 21 for four weeks (skipping spring break Wednesday), 6 to 8 p.m. - Creative non-fiction 202 workshop (continuation of 101 class), $100
(If I don't get enough deposits for 202 by mid-January, it may switch back to a 101 class, so let me know as soon as you can if you want to be on the 202 list or a waiting list for 101 should it happen instead. Prerequisite for 202 is 101.)

I will likely also teach an Intro or an Opinion seminar in February depending on interest, so let me know that, too. I try to schedule classes to meet the demand of my potential students. So let me know!

Also, this time of year is the time to mention that you'd like writing classes for Christmas, or to give classes as a gift to those who think would like their creativity unlocked or need permission to express themselves. I get a rush of students every year based on gifts and New Year's resolutions! So don't be shy. It's your time to write. ;-)

OK, that's all, I think. Remember to write me at class@jacksonfreepress.com to get on one of the class lists. Then you can mail or drop off your deposit (at least half the fee to hold the spot).

All classes meet in either the Fondren Corner building or the Art of State studios, also in Fondren. I'll let you know details of location for each class once you're on the class list and how to get me your deposit

The Lighter Fare of Susan Orlean

2006-10-29T10:57:00.000-08:00

I tend to use pretty heavy-duty examples of narrative non-fiction writing in my classes; however, I'm a huge fan of Susan Orlean's writers and have attended several writing workshops/seminars where she spoke on her craft.

I recommend a visit to her Web site:

http://susanorlean.com
http://susanorlean.com/articles/lady_and_tigers.html

I also see that her new book of "travel" stories are out. I'm going to look for it at Powell's today here in Portland. I suspect it'll be very good. Meantime, her last collection of her pieces is an amazing book; I'm going to look for one today as well. I loaned mine to someone, and you know how that goes. I recommend it highly for every creative non-fiction writers craft library:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0375758631/susanorleanco-20

October and November Classes

2006-10-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I appreciate all the interest in my writing classes lately. It's as if suddenly everyone in Jackon wants to be a non-fiction writer. Good. Very good.

I've played around with the starting dates of some of my classes due to news demands of late (ahem). Here are the upcoming classes for the rest of the year:

Saturday, Oct. 21 — One-time Intro to non-fiction writing seminar.
This is an overview of my approach to non-fiction writing. It's perfect for someone who isn't sure you want to commit to the four-week 101 class, yet, or who wants to do it before the other class to get motivated, or if you want a refresher because you took the class a while back. This class is $50; meets from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Fondren Corner building; you can bring lunch if you want. No prerequisite.

Wednesday, Oct. 25 — Four-week non-fiction writing workshop.
This is a hands-on, step-by-step, week-by-week walk through the steps of writing good non-fiction. You will turn in original writing each week, which I will use in the classes to demonstrates what you need to be teaching yourself about good writing. You will also read each other's work, the work of good writers and numerous hand-outs on the craft of writing. No prerequisite, although many people take the Saturday intro workshop first. As of now, this class is full, but I am keeping a waiting list. $100.

Saturday, Nov. 11 — One-day opinion-writing seminar.
Due to popular demand, this is my encore opinion-writing seminar. It will work much as the one-time intro class, except that it will focus on persuasive writing and argument. I hope that this seminar will demonstrate the demand for a four-week opinion-writing workshop in 2007. I'll keep you posted. Spots are still available. $50.

A Saturday in December TBA — I may teach one more Intro workshop this year if the demand is there. I'll keep you posted.

January — Probably the second week in January, I will launch another four-week 101 class, followed by a 202 class (intermediate non-fiction writing; prerequisite 101 or the Intro seminar). The 202 class is on the same four-week Wednesday, 6 to 8 schedule, also $100. I can take deposits now for those classes as well if you want to guarantee a slot. (All deposits are refundable if a class is rescheduled.)

Fees: All class fees include a binder of materials. In order to reserve a spot in a class, you must send in or drop off half the fee as a deposit in advance of the class. All checks should be made out to Donna Ladd (not JFP).

To register, e-mail: class@jacksonfreepress.com or call me at the JFP office at 601.362.6121.

Also, I have an extensive mailing list of folks interested in my classes. Please send me your e-mail address if you'd like to be added.

Finally, feel free to offer suggestions for future classes.

Shut Up and Write!

2006-08-30T18:17:00.000-07:00

Intro to Creative Non-Fiction Writing Seminar
Saturday, Sept. 9 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (OK to bring lunch)
Fondren Corner, 3rd Floor, Legal Resources conference room
This class will introduce you to my approach to teaching creative non-fiction writing. It is a one-shot overview of what I teach in the four weeks of my 101 class. It's not a prerequisite to 101, but it's a way to see if you really want to do it. It's also a great way to review the 101 classes, if you've already taken it and are ready to move into 202. Class limit: 10
Cost: $50/$25 if combined with a four-week class
No homework or writing required.

Creative Non-Fiction Writing 202, Four Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m., begins Sept. 13
This is the continuation of 101, and you need to have taken 101 in order to take this class.
This class goes deeper into the art and craft of writing including discussion about voice, style, structure and how to really make your writing sing. You will work on one major piece of your choosing, as well as continue weekly "expressive" writings and keep a sloppy journal.
Cost: $100 ($125 for both this class and the intro workshop)
Weekly writings and other exercises assigned. Class limit: 8

Creative Non-Fiction Writing 101, Four Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m., begins Oct. 18
This is my first-level writing workshops. I take you through the primary process of writing: idea, research, drafting, rewriting during the four weeks. We do weekly expressive pieces and start work on a piece of your choosing. I give out a binder of materials that includes readings of other work and pieces on various aspects of writing. Class limit: 8

Intro to Creative Non-Fiction Writing Seminar
Saturday, Oct. 18 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (OK to bring lunch)
(See description above.)

*** Brand-new class coming in November ***
Say What's On Your Mind: Opinion Writing Workshop
Saturday, Nov. 11 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., $60 (tentative date depending on interest)
I've been developing this class due to popular demand. I expect there to be a lot of interest in this one, so please let me know as soon as possible if you're interested in a slot. Class limit: 10 people

E-mall class@jacksonfreepress.com if you're interested in signing up or for more information!

Great book for learning the craft of writing

2006-02-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

I don't say this because Ayana Taylor and I, of the JFP, are featured in it, but for a limited time, you can buy copies of "Best Alt Weekly Writing and Design 2005" at Lemuria for $19.95 apiece. This is a collection of all the first-place winner articles, columns and features (as well as design and photography) published in 2005 by alternative newspapers across America. It includes a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative story, as well as Donna Ladd's feature, "Alleged Victims," and Ayana Taylor's short-form news.

I use several pieces from this book as examples in my writing classes. I urge anyone interested in learning to write non-fiction creatively to scurry on over to Lemuria and pick up a copy. We signed a number of extra copies at our reading last night, so those are available for no extra cost.

New 101 Non-Fiction Class Starts April 5, 2006

2006-01-13T13:30:00.000-08:00

Shut Up and Write!

Prerequisite: Donna Ladd's Non-Fiction 101

Four Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m., $100, includes materials. Accepting $50 deposits now to hold space. Write writers (at) jacksonfreepress dotcom, or call Natalie Collier at 601.362.6121 ext. 2 to sign up now!

101/Beginners/Intro — Four Wednesdays, starting Nov. 9, 2005 -- Send e-mail if interested
Location: Fondren Corner building, Jackson, Miss.

The classes are open to five to eight students. Please a deposit for $50 to Donna Ladd, JFP, PO Box 2046, Jackson, Miss., 39225 to hold your spot. E-mail class (at) jacksonfreepress (dotcom) for more information.

Syllabus

Four two-hour sessions, $100, includes materials

Week 1: The Idea. How to generate good story topics. How to learn from other writers: Reading for craft. What is narrative writing? Courage: Removing obstacles to writing.

Week 2: Focus: How to get ready to write. Why research isn't just for term papers. What does "reporting" really mean? Having something to write about. Sitting down to do the first draft. Ready, set, write!

Week 3: A Draft! You're not done, yet. How to re-organize, stay focused and develop an excellent draft. Why revision is the most important stage of writing.

Week 4: Final: More revision, self-editing advice, murdering your darlings. How to deal with success or rejection. Tips to making it in the freelance world. Why ethics are so important. Libel 101.

Each participant will get a binder of writing materials and advice on the freelance world, as well as critiques of excerpts of your assignments as we go along. We will also discuss some of your work in class. I will not typically critique or "edit" full-length pieces; I will teach you how to critique them for yourselves.

Great first class!

2006-01-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who joined the 101 class that launched last week. (If you're interested in 101 and couldn't make this one, get on the waiting list by writing my assistant, Natalie Collier, at natalie at jacksonfreepress dotcom.)

In the first class, I always feel like I talk too much, but folks seemed to like it. And, usually, by the second week, I can't shut y'all up! Remember, please turn in assignments by Monday night via e-mail to the class at jacksonfreepress dotcom address.

And remember:

1. Don't be afraid to express yourself.
2. Read for craft.
3. Think about how you can better "report" what you want to write.
4. Have fun.

See you next week!

Donna

New Non-Fiction 101 Class Starting Jan. 11, 2006

2005-12-20T18:46:00.000-08:00

101/Beginners/Intro — Four Wednesdays, starting Nov. 9, 2005 -- Send e-mail if interested
Location: Fondren, Jackson, Miss.

The classes are open to five to eight students. Please a deposit for $50 to Donna Ladd, JFP, PO Box 2046, Jackson, Miss., 39225 to hold your spot. E-mail class (at) jacksonfreepress (dotcom) for more information.

Syllabus

Four two-hour sessions, $100, includes materials

Week 1: The Idea. How to generate good story topics. How to learn from other writers: Reading for craft. What is narrative writing? Courage: Removing obstacles to writing.

Week 2: Focus: How to get ready to write. Why research isn't just for term papers. What does "reporting" really mean? Having something to write about. Sitting down to do the first draft. Ready, set, write!

Week 3: A Draft! You're not done, yet. How to re-organize, stay focused and develop an excellent draft. Why revision is the most important stage of writing.

Week 4: Final: More revision, self-editing advice, murdering your darlings. How to deal with success or rejection. Tips to making it in the freelance world. Why ethics are so important. Libel 101.

Each participant will get a binder of writing materials and advice on the freelance world, as well as critiques of excerpts of your assignments as we go along. We will also discuss some of your work in class. I will not typically critique or "edit" full-length pieces; I will teach you how to critique them for yourselves.

Shut Up and Write!

Updated: January/February 2007 Class Schedule

Give the Gift of Writing!

Writing Classes - December through February

The Lighter Fare of Susan Orlean

October and November Classes

Shut Up and Write!

Great book for learning the craft of writing

New 101 Non-Fiction Class Starts April 5, 2006

Great first class!

Suggested Reading List

New Non-Fiction 101 Class Starting Jan. 11, 2006