The Upper Peninsula Publishers and Authors Association will host its first-ever full-day workshop for middle school and high school writers on May 18 in conjunction with the 2024 UPPAA Conference.
The Young Writers Storytelling Workshop is open to U.P. fifth through twelfth graders who want to improve their writing craft and learn from established authors. The workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Peter White Library, 217 N. Front St. in Marquette.
“The workshop will run in parallel to UPPAA’s main conference, but the sessions will be aimed at a youthful audience who are beginning their writing journeys,” said Rehema Clarken (Hancock, MI), who is the workshop chair. “We are proud to grow our network of UP writers by starting this track for a new generation of authors.”
During the workshop, four award-winning U.P. authors will work with the young writers on skills such as building conflict, creating cool characters, and establishing a setting. Regardless of whether they just have an idea for a story or are looking to polish their existing tales, there is something for every student to expand their reach. To register now, please visit uppaa.org/storytelling
The workshop fee is $15 per student for the general public. Children of UPPAA members with family membership packages can attend for free. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available, please contact storytelling@uppaa.org for details.
Workshop attendance is strictly limited to 24 young writers, on a first-come, first-served basis. Lunch will be catered by Togo’s Subs of Marquette.
Young Writers Storytelling Workshop Schedule
9:45-10:45 – Morning Session #1
Cyndi Perkins—Why do you write? Getting to know you.
A journalist and professional editor who lives in the Keweenaw, Cyndi will lead warm-up activities to get participants comfortable and enthusiastic about writing and sharing their ideas.
11:00 – 12:00 – Morning Session #2
John Hagen—What’s the problem? Conflict builds stories.
An author from St. Ignace, John will guide participants through an investigation of conflict—the essential element of story—to encourage them to create a compelling plot that makes a page turner.
1:45 – 2:45 Afternoon Session #1
Nikki Mitchell—Who is this about? Creating cool characters.
A middle-grade writer from Iron River, Nikki will focus on how to create vibrant characters that jump off the page into the reader’s imagination.
3:00 – 4:00 Afternoon Session #2
Ann Dallman—Where are they? Setting for success.
Ann is a journalist turned middle-grade author from Menominee. She will cover how to create a suitable setting that encourages the right atmosphere and mood while complementing other story elements and adding to comprehension.
Comments