Join me for this four-week session to spend time discovering what the story is you have to tell? Does it want to be an essay, a book or both?

Each week will be a 90-minute generative writing session and discussion about the shape of stories. We will look at the work of published authors who have published essays that led to memoirs, who wrote memoirs in essays, and who have written memoir books.

These are mindful writing workshops, so we will begin with a meditation, focus with writing prompts, freewrite and dive deep into the nature of our stories. By the end of the four weeks, you will have a sense of your story and a draft of a chapter or essay.

Be sure to have pen and paper ready as we will be writing by hand if possible.

This is a safe, supportive, and fun environment in which to create and share your thoughts and stories.

Join me!

Date: Mondays, July 10, 17, 24 and 31

Time: 6:30pm to 8:00pm EST

Where: Online, a link will be sent in advance.

Cost: $220.00

Questions? Email me at sbarrtoman @ gmail.com

---

Testimonials

I have taken several classes with Susan and loved them all. She creates a supportive community where writers can share their writing, receive feedback and learn from each other. Seeing the group is a highlight of my week.

Susan is extremely knowledgeable about the craft of writing and I always leave our sessions newly inspired. With her thoughtful guidance and encouragement, I have even had two essays published! I highly recommend any workshop with Susan. 

Lisa Mazinas

Susan’s What’s your story? memoir writing class set the stage for me to go deeper with my writing. Meditation and mindful writing unlocks the door to story. I will be using the techniques I learned in this class in my writing going forward.   Susan creates an open space for creatives to write, share, and grow. Susan brings her tremendous knowledge and an ease to each class. She builds community!  

Annie Pittinger

I love Susan’s classes! I have gained a sound foundation in the combination of meditation and writing. Workshops afford a unique broadening of perspective as I glimpse bits of life through the stories my classmates choose to write and to share.

Susan effortlessly creates an inclusive and inspiring online classroom that feels like a weekly bit of normalcy and connection in this disaggregated time.

Amy L., Cherry Hill, NJ

Susan’s writing classes (I’ve enrolled in several) have been transformational. I hadn’t been able to write regularly or successfully for years, and Susan’s deep knowledge of literature–and her experience with both the craft of writing and the practical details of the publishing world–have been incredibly helpful and inspiring.  Thanks to her course, and the supportive community it has created, I now have a regular writing practice, and have even submitted some pieces for publication, with more planned for the future. This course is the highlight of my week despite a busy work schedule.

Catherine W., Haddon Township, NJ

I participated in my first 6-week personal essay workshop with Susan over a year ago, and haven’t stopped since! Susan creates a vibe in the group that fosters positive and constructive feedback, and I’ve come away from each session with improvements in my own writing and inspiration from my fellow writers, now friends. I highly recommend for anyone with a story to tell — which is everyone!

Jeanne M., Wayne, PA