{"title":"Creative Writing Classes Led by NYT Notable Author Debra Jo Immergut","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Debra Jo Immergut is the author of the novels \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou Again\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, named a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Best of the Year and shortlisted for the 2021 Gotham Book Prize, and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Captives\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, a 2019 Edgar Award finalist and published in over a dozen countries. She has also published a collection of short fiction, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrivate Property\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Her essays and stories have appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, Narrative, The New York Times, PANK, Hobart\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and elsewhere. A recipient of Michener and MacDowell fellowships, she has an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Debra has extensive experience teaching creative writing courses in undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. She lives in western Massachusetts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-propulsive-plot-tools-and-tactics-for-more-compelling-stories-weekend-intensive-zoom-with-debra-jo-immergut","title":"The Propulsive Plot: Tools and Tactics for More Compelling Stories Weekend Intensive (Zoom) with Debra Jo Immergut on May 2nd and May 3rd, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWeekend Intensive will Meet on Saturday, May 2nd, \u0026amp; Sunday, May 3rd, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass will meet both days via Zoom for 3 Hours at 2PM - 5PM ET\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNew York (EST): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLondon (GMT): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Debra Jo Immergut is the author of the novels \u003cem\u003eYou Again\u003c\/em\u003e, named a \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e Best of the Year and shortlisted for the 2021 Gotham Book Prize, and \u003cem\u003eThe Captives\u003c\/em\u003e, a 2019 Edgar Award finalist and published in over a dozen countries. She has also published a collection of short fiction, \u003cem\u003ePrivate Property\u003c\/em\u003e. Her essays and stories have appeared in \u003cem\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, Narrative, The New York Times, PANK, Hobart\u003c\/em\u003e, and elsewhere. A recipient of Michener and MacDowell fellowships, she has an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Debra has extensive experience teaching creative writing courses in undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. She lives in western Massachusetts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Read an Interview with Debra Jo Immergut on The Art of the Propulsive Page-Turner.\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/the-art-of-the-propulsive-page-turner-an-interview-with-debra-jo-immergut\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean Interview with Debra Jo Immergut\u003c\/a\u003e on The Art of the Propulsive Page-Turner.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis course will benefit writers working on writing more compelling literary or commercial fiction or nonfiction, at any stage of development, from a vague notion to a full draft. It is open to all levels.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery story should be, in some sense, a thriller–and there’s no doubt that publishers endlessly crave writing that compels readers to turn pages. In this course, we’ll identify the essential components of narrative tension and suspense in novels and short stories. We will also discuss how character informs plot and how to reimagine genre forms in fresh ways that steer clear of cliche. We will talk about premises, plot twists, outlining, and how to write with greater power and style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur sessions together will benefit writers working on literary or commercial fiction or nonfiction, at any stage of development, from a vague notion to a full draft. Writers will take away a set of practical tools and strategies for planning and refining plots and for boosting the propulsive power of their narratives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZoom meetings will consist of illustrated craft lectures and generative writing sessions centered on specific techniques for constructing a strong story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants will have a chance to share bits of in-class work. Sharing is always optional.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TEXTS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll analyze excerpts from authors as varied as Kazuo Ishiguro, John LeCarre, Jesmyn Ward, Shirley Jackson, Justin Torres, and Ian McEwan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Power of Premise (finding the soul of your story, using your premise as the engine of propulsion)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Drivers and The Map (how characters inform plot, outlining strategies, twists, withheld Information). Finding the Finish Line (essentials for writing with poetry and precision, ideas about endings, how to revise for a stronger plot, how to keep going)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this course, students will generate a strong premise statement, two new scenes, and an in-depth character study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, group members will leave with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA stronger premise statement for their work-in-progress.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA deeper understanding of how to use character development as a source of narrative tension.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeas for using setting to increase a story's possibilities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2-3 flexible tools for building and assessing story structure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 strategies for boosting forward momentum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra is not only a gifted writer, but she is a gifted teacher of writing. She meets writers where they are and gently takes them to the next level, with insightful feedback, warmth, and good humor. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra has a magical way of fostering rigor, curiosity, and generosity, and my work has grown immensely since the start of the course. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra’s laserlike comments and brilliant suggestions have kept me going this fall and winter. I really can’t recommend this experience enough. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI had a wonderful time in Debra’s workshop. A few things stand out: Debra’s warm, welcoming manner and her care in assembling a group of bright, engaged writers. She helped me develop a non-punitive plan — “a roadmap, not a train schedule” — toward completing the first draft of my novel, which has resulted in fruitful writing months. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI made so many notes throughout the course about how I might use these strategies in my work. I want to map out the existing structure of the stories I'm revising to help me see what patterns and rhythms emerge and how I can work to complete them in a satisfying and resonant way. I'm feeling excited about completing an unfinished story and revising the two that I'm trying to get ready to send out into the world. Thank you for pointing out a few mechanisms to try! — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat balance of instruction and writing time. Loved it, wouldn’t change a thing! Appreciated the instructor’s thoughtfulness and engagement. I’m very new to writing and found the content very helpful and accessible. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe content was fabulous; the examples were so eye-opening. It really is the best workshop I've taken in the last year. — former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis class meets weekly via Zoom on Saturday, May 2nd, and Sunday, May 3rd, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $180 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Debra Jo Immergut\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeekend Intensive will Meet on Saturday, May 2nd, and Sunday, May 3rd, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet both days via Zoom for 3 Hours at 2PM - 5PM ET Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNew York (EST): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLondon (GMT): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46703362801912,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/DebraJoImmergutHeadshot2025_1124de07-cd0d-4698-8c71-17423d067cb0.png?v=1755207161"},{"product_id":"story-structure-fiction-nonfiction-writing-workshop-online","title":"Story Structure Simplified: How to Shape Your Narrative for Maximum Effect with Debra Jo Immergut (Zoom) on Saturday, August 1st, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, August 1st, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Eastern\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Debra Jo Immergut is the author of the novels \u003cem\u003eYou Again\u003c\/em\u003e, named a \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e Best of the Year and shortlisted for the 2021 Gotham Book Prize, and \u003cem\u003eThe Captives\u003c\/em\u003e, a 2019 Edgar Award finalist and published in over a dozen countries. She has also published a collection of short fiction, \u003cem\u003ePrivate Property\u003c\/em\u003e. Her essays and stories have appeared in \u003cem\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, Narrative, The New York Times, PANK, Hobart\u003c\/em\u003e, and elsewhere. A recipient of Michener and MacDowell fellowships, she has an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Debra has extensive experience teaching creative writing courses in undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. She lives in western Massachusetts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis online writing workshop is for fiction and nonfiction writers who want to learn key strategies for building stories with strong structures and narrative momentum. Open to all levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you turn that amazing idea into a fully formed story that moves in believable and surprising ways from beginning to end? In this 2-hour intensive, you'll explore how successful stories engage our curiosity, build momentum, and leave us feeling changed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by Edgar-nominated novelist Debra Jo Immergut, this online writing class combines illustrated lecture, group discussion, and generative brainstorming. You'll examine examples from masters including Shirley Jackson, Jesmyn Ward, George Saunders, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Together, you'll break down these stories' magical effects into actionable strategies for creating shapely, satisfying narratives. The instructor will provide input on story ideas and structural strategies throughout the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriters of fiction or nonfiction at all levels will exit this creative writing workshop with a set of practical tools for structuring current and future work. You'll gain concrete strategies you can apply immediately to your own writing projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1: Yearnings\u003c\/strong\u003e — Understanding character desires and their role in story structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2: Struggle\u003c\/strong\u003e — Building tension and conflict that propels your narrative forward\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3: Change\u003c\/strong\u003e — Crafting meaningful transformation and development\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4: Endings \u003c\/strong\u003e— Creating satisfying conclusions that resonate with readers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDefine the drivers of the story: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003egain a clear understanding of your characters' desires and how they influence story structure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRethink classic story shapes: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003ego beyond the 3-act structure and other familiar approaches to discover the unique armature that will best support the story you want to tell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePractice ways to boost \"page-turn-ability\": \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eget three foolproof tactics for writing scenes that increase momentum and feel logical yet surprising\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA practical toolkit \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003efor structuring current and future fiction or nonfiction projects\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra is not only a gifted writer, but she is a gifted teacher of writing. She meets writers where they are and gently takes them to the next level, with insightful feedback, warmth, and good humor. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra has a magical way of fostering rigor, curiosity, and generosity, and my work has grown immensely since the start of the course. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra’s laserlike comments and brilliant suggestions have kept me going this fall and winter. I really can’t recommend this experience enough. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI had a wonderful time in Debra’s workshop. A few things stand out: Debra’s warm, welcoming manner and her care in assembling a group of bright, engaged writers. She helped me develop a non-punitive plan — “a roadmap, not a train schedule” — toward completing the first draft of my novel, which has resulted in fruitful writing months. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI made so many notes throughout the course about how I might use these strategies in my work. I want to map out the existing structure of the stories I'm revising to help me see what patterns and rhythms emerge and how I can work to complete them in a satisfying and resonant way. I'm feeling excited about completing an unfinished story and revising the two that I'm trying to get ready to send out into the world. Thank you for pointing out a few mechanisms to try! — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat balance of instruction and writing time. Loved it, wouldn’t change a thing! Appreciated the instructor’s thoughtfulness and engagement. I’m very new to writing and found the content very helpful and accessible. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe content was fabulous; the examples were so eye-opening. It really is the best workshop I've taken in the last year. — former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Debra Jo Immergut\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Saturday, August 1st, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47597646381304,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/DebraJoImmergutHeadshot2025_1124de07-cd0d-4698-8c71-17423d067cb0.png?v=1755207161"},{"product_id":"translating-memory-into-fiction-writing-seminar-online-july-2026","title":"Translating Memory Into Fiction: A Weekend Writing Seminar with Debra Jo Immergut (Zoom) on July 11th and July 12th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv data-test-render-count=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"contents\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"group relative relative pb-3\" data-is-streaming=\"false\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"font-claude-response relative leading-[1.65rem] [\u0026amp;_pre\u0026gt;div]:bg-bg-000\/50 [\u0026amp;_pre\u0026gt;div]:border-0.5 [\u0026amp;_pre\u0026gt;div]:border-border-400 [\u0026amp;_.ignore-pre-bg\u0026gt;div]:bg-transparent [\u0026amp;_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [\u0026amp;_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8 [\u0026amp;_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [\u0026amp;_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mt-4\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid-rows-[auto_auto] min-w-0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row-start-2 col-start-1 relative grid isolate min-w-0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row-start-1 col-start-1 relative z-[2] min-w-0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"standard-markdown grid-cols-1 grid [\u0026amp;_\u0026gt;_*]:min-w-0 gap-3 standard-markdown\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWeekend Intensive will Meet on Saturday, July 11, \u0026amp; Sunday, July 12th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClass will meet both days via Zoom for 3 hours at 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/strong\u003e Los Angeles (PT): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CT): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (ET): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eInstructor Debra Jo Immergut is the author of the novels \u003cem\u003eYou Again\u003c\/em\u003e, named a \u003cem\u003eNew York Times \u003c\/em\u003eBest of the Year and shortlisted for the 2021 Gotham Book Prize, and \u003cem\u003eThe Captives\u003c\/em\u003e, a 2019 Edgar Award finalist and published in over a dozen countries. She has also published a collection of short fiction, \u003cem\u003ePrivate Property\u003c\/em\u003e. Her essays and stories have appeared in \u003cem\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, Narrative, The New York Times, PANK, Hobart\u003c\/em\u003e, and elsewhere. A recipient of Michener and MacDowell fellowships, she has an MFA from the Iowa Writers' Workshop and lives in western Massachusetts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online writing seminar is designed for writers of all levels who want to deepen the emotional impact of their work and make their characters feel more truthful and alive. The strategies discussed will strengthen both fiction and nonfiction work. Whether you're just starting out or deep into a manuscript, you'll find new tools for transforming lived experience into compelling storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eKeeping in mind Joan Didion's observations about the differences between truth and fact — \"How it felt to me: that is getting closer to the truth\" — this weekend writing workshop will explore ways to mine your life for powerful raw material while avoiding overexposure. You'll consider when it's best to stick close to \"real life\" and when it's better to recast or reshape for greater resonance, working on strategies for evoking setting, summoning characters, and shaping narratives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eSessions will consist of illustrated lecture, generative writing exercises, and discussion of examples from published work, with 1–3 short pieces to be read in advance. If time and interest exist, participants may share bits of their writing, but the main goal of this creative writing course is to pick up new tools for storytelling and to make new work. The underlying lesson is this: every life can yield ample material for compelling writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eParticipants will have a chance to share bits of in-class work. Sharing is always optional, and feedback will be focused on what's working in the new material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will take away a set of practical tools for building stronger stories, plans and\/or drafts for two new scenes, and a list of \"excavated memories\" that will deepen the reality of their characters and their fictional world. Debra Jo Immergut's operating principle is that anyone can create compelling narratives with a few key strategies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReadings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eReadings will include short excerpts from a variety of authors such as Kazuo Ishiguro, Jesmyn Ward, Shirley Jackson, Justin Torres, and Michael Cunningham.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay 1: Remembered Landscapes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e – A \"memory into fiction\" recipe to try – How to locate and use your remembered landscapes – How to summon characters who feel real but aren't\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDay 2: Building a Narrative\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e – Why the truest story might not be the true story – How to construct strong momentum and how to resolve it – How to keep nurturing your project and process\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eA \"recipe\" for creating a compelling, propulsive narrative based largely or partially on your own memories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLists of your own recaptured and recast memories to use as raw material for your work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e2–3 flexible tools for creating settings and characters that feel real and \"lived in\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eDrafts or starting points for new scenes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003ePractical strategies for mining personal experience while maintaining creative distance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eA deeper understanding of when to stay close to real life and when to reshape for greater resonance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra is not only a gifted writer, but she is a gifted teacher of writing. She meets writers where they are and gently takes them to the next level, with insightful feedback, warmth, and good humor. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra has a magical way of fostering rigor, curiosity, and generosity, and my work has grown immensely since the start of the course. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra’s laserlike comments and brilliant suggestions have kept me going this fall and winter. I really can’t recommend this experience enough. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI had a wonderful time in Debra’s workshop. A few things stand out: Debra’s warm, welcoming manner and her care in assembling a group of bright, engaged writers. She helped me develop a non-punitive plan — “a roadmap, not a train schedule” — toward completing the first draft of my novel, which has resulted in fruitful writing months. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI made so many notes throughout the course about how I might use these strategies in my work. I want to map out the existing structure of the stories I'm revising to help me see what patterns and rhythms emerge and how I can work to complete them in a satisfying and resonant way. I'm feeling excited about completing an unfinished story and revising the two that I'm trying to get ready to send out into the world. Thank you for pointing out a few mechanisms to try! — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat balance of instruction and writing time. Loved it, wouldn’t change a thing! Appreciated the instructor’s thoughtfulness and engagement. I’m very new to writing and found the content very helpful and accessible. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe content was fabulous; the examples were so eye-opening. It really is the best workshop I've taken in the last year. — former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eTuition is $180 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eInstructor: Debra Jo Immergut\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eWeekend Seminar will meet on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eClass will meet both days via Zoom for 3 hours at 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eTuition is $180 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48140030869752,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/DebraJoImmergutHeadshot2025_1124de07-cd0d-4698-8c71-17423d067cb0.png?v=1755207161"}],"url":"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/collections\/creative-writing-classes-led-by-nyt-notable-author-debra-jo-immergut.oembed","provider":"Writing Workshops","version":"1.0","type":"link"}