Primary tabs

person typing on laptop next to coffee mug and notebook with pen

Beginning A Novel

Have an idea you’re dying to write as a novel? A killer thriller, a steamy romance, or cozy mystery? Novels are one of the most versatile art forms for good reason: they can take almost any shape, genre, or size. But that presents a problem: how do you begin one? In this class we’ll dive into the preparatory work of novel writing.

Participants will leave this class with a greater understanding of the novel form, and a game plan for tackling their creative masterpiece.

We’ll cover subjects such as:

  • Is my idea a novel or a short story?
  • Antagonists and protagonists, sidekicks and mentors
  • Brainstorming and exercises to prime your creativity
  • Plus the most important part of writing a novel, regardless of genre

This class is taught by a graduate student in the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s MFA Program in Creative Writing.


If you need ADA accommodation to use Library services or attend Library events and programs, please notify us at least 3 business days in advance at 816.701.3409 or ADA@kclibrary.org. (TTY access available via 711 or 866.520.7309 for Spanish.)

The Kansas City Public Library could be videotaping and taking photos for possible inclusion in marketing and promotional communications.

Upcoming in this series:
Adults
Flash Nonfiction: Writing About Your Life
Plaza Branch |
August 24 |
1:00pm
Adults
Get Your Application Right: A Guide to Professiona...
Lucile H. Bluford Branch |
August 29 |
1:00pm
Adults
Flash Fiction: The Short Short Story
Central Library |
September 2 |
12:00pm
Adults
Author Spotlight: Write Like Mary Oliver
Plaza Branch |
September 9 |
1:00pm
Watch or Listen to Past Events in this Series:
Gillian Flynn

Kansas City Public Library and UMKC MFA program in creative writing

An Evening with Gillian Flynn

Thursday, November 21, 2024 6:00pm
Writers for Readers, one of Kansas City’s top literary events, returns with an exciting lineup featuring #1 New York Times’ bestselling author Gillian Flynn in conve...
person typing on laptop next to coffee mug and notebook with pen

Beginning A Novel

Date & Location
-
In Person
Details
Adults