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UID:63640-1786752000-1787270399@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Whole Novel Workshop: An In-Person Retreat for Novelists (August)
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 6-Day/5-Night Workshop and Retreat with a Full Novel Critique Included \nThis intensive\, transformative Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft (up to 85\,000 words)* of a novel read by faculty\, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations provided. Attention in an intimate setting makes this program one that guarantees significant progress in preparation for submission. This Whole Novel Workshop is specifically designed for writers of novels for children and teens. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nApply on or before June 8 (with final notifications on or before June 15). There is no fee to apply.\nOptional online pre-retreat activities (via Zoom): June 23 & August 4 (2 evenings\, time to come\, Eastern Time)\nComplete manuscript submissions due by July 7\nFeedback letters delivered to writers by August 12\n45-minute\, 1:1 Private Zoom Consultation prior to the retreat: Scheduled at a mutually convenient time\, August 10 – 14\nThe cost of the full course (including retreat + pre-retreat zooms\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultations\, lectures\, and writing exercises) is $2\,799.\nThe in-person workshop at our Retreat Center includes inspirational sessions and opportunities for time in the company of fellow creatives.\n\nBegins with dinner on 5:30pm Eastern on Saturday\, August 15\nEnds after lunch on Thursday\, August 20\nWe include ample time to relax\, retreat\, and work on your revisions.\nLodging and meals are included at the retreat.\n\n\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Everyone on the faculty was genuinely interested in helping each student to succeed. They were great about having small or one-on-one conversations as well.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were warm\, inspiring\, wise\, encouraging\, helpful\, and funny. The workshops were as inspiring and as helpful as the presenters. I couldn’t have asked for more!” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were awesome. I’ve been through an MFA program in creative writing\, so I know top-notch writing instructors when I see them. Learned some very valuable things about my writing at Boyds Mills.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The guest speakers were lovely\, accessible and thorough with their feedback and guidance.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why Do I Need to Apply to this Program?\nThere is no fee to apply. \nThe Whole Novel Workshop is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. \nAs such\, you will need to have a completed draft of your novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date (July 7). \nWe ask that you apply to the course to make sure that the Whole Novel format is the best fit for your goals. \nPlease submit: \n\nThe first 10 – 15 pages from the manuscript you wish to workshop\nA one-page synopsis or general outline\nTentative word count\, workshop goals\, and a short bio (including how you are connected to this project)\n\n\nApplications will be reviewed on a rolling basis\, starting immediately through June 8.  \nYou will be notified of your acceptance status no later than June 15\, 2026\, and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. (You may also use a scholarship that you have been previously awarded to attend a Whole Novel program.) Once the submission deadline has occurred\, there is a cancellation fee of $1\,100. You will receive your feedback letter and one consultation with this cancellation. \nThe cost of the full course (including retreat- lodging\, meals\, and lectures\, + pre-retreat zooms\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultations\, and writing exercises) is $2\,799. \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nThe Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft of a novel (up to 85\,000 words*) read with written feedback and two private consultations\, along with an inspiring retreat at the Boyds Mills retreat center. Attention in an intimate setting makes this program one that guarantees significant progress in preparation for submission. \nYou’ll move through this program alongside fellow authors who are in the thick of the creative process with you; from our experienced readers to your fellow attendees. Whether you’re working toward getting your first novel published\, or working on the next (or the next!)\, this workshop can help you see your work in a new light. \nYou’ll also participate in “Brain Trust” peer groups.  These are small\, carefully chosen cohorts of your fellow attendees\, plus a facilitator. Your “brain trust” group members will come to the workshop having read your short submission and will have some familiarity with your work. Your “brain trust” guide will then help you bring your own questions and challenges to the group\, so that they may offer you new perspectives and approaches to problem solving. The goal is to use those perspectives as you complete your revisions to bring out the best in your own story. Hear our podcast about “Brain Trusts” here. \nIn all\, this opportunity features: \n\nAn editorial letter offering written insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000 words*) to help you prioritize goals.\nAt least two private consultations with your reader to discuss feedback\, revisions\, and next steps.\nTime to stretch creatively with presentations and prompts.\nSmall group discussions and open space to process your revision ideas.\nConnection opportunities with fellow writers.\n\nPlease note: \n\nIf accepted to the program\, your full novel draft is due on or before July 7.\n*If accepted\, should your novel be over 85\,000 words\, we may ask you to summarize a portion\, or compensate your faculty reader for additional word count.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou have a complete or near-complete draft of a novel. You’ll get the most out of this workshop if you’re at this stage.  Your full workshop novel submission is due by July 7\, and then you’ll workshop it in earnest\, readying it for submission.\nYour project is one of many fiction genres\, a graphic novel\, a verse novel\, or a multi-genre novel. If you aren’t sure if your novel fits the program specifics\, please reach out and ask.\nYou would benefit from receiving multiple feedback perspectives. In addition to a whole novel review by your faculty reader\, you will lead a discussion for feedback from your “brain trust” guides and fellow writers.\nYou’re willing to work! This program is best for those who will dedicate time and attention to processing feedback\, revising\, writing exercises\, and group sessions.\nYou’d appreciate some retreat time. This course has plenty of built-in time to write\, draw\, hike\, revise\, and/or rest: whatever you need.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About the Whole Novel Workshop\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\n\nYou will be thoughtfully paired with a faculty reader who can offer insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000 words)\, and help you prioritize goals. You will receive this written feedback by August 12 and have two private consultations (one via Zoom prior to the retreat\, and one during the retreat) to discuss feedback and goals.\nA specially crafted “brain trust” peer group will be built with your needs in mind. This unique roundtable discussion will host no more than 8 fellow writers\, and will be facilitated by a caring guide who sees that each group maintains a safe atmosphere and centers your needs during the discussion.\nInformal feedback will be offered throughout the workshop via discussions and open sharing during free creative time.\n\nIf you’d like to learn more\, see our note on feedback in our programs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat? \n				As an in-person event at our Retreat Center\, you’ll have a chance to step away from everyday life to experience the retreat. Boyds Mills strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives\, including our faculty and staff. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Your novel can make a big impact on a child’s life. This workshop helps you take steps toward bringing it to market in a way that is authentic to your voice and your story\, because that is just what your reader needs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Learn More About the Whole Novel Workshop?\n				Here are some helpful resources from past participants and Whole Novel Workshop faculty: \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique\, with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello\n5 Tips to Make Your Novel Opening a Strong One\nPodcast: Melissa Wyatt on Inspiring Your Writing Practice with Prompts\nTake Your Character to Work Day\nSarah Aronson on Play\, Revision and the Whole Novel Workshop\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				FAQ ABOUT THE WHOLE NOVEL WORKSHOP\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n					Comparing FormatsSubmitting ApplicationsAbout Faculty Mentors\n				\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What’s the difference between the In-Person and Online Whole Novel Workshop?\nBoth versions feature skilled faculty mentors\, craft presentations\, peer group workshopping and writing exercises. The two main differences are: \n\nThe in-person workshop offers a unique opportunity to focus and to network. At our Retreat Center\, you are away from your daily obligations\, cared for by our staff with 3 meals a day\, have a private space to work in\, and the opportunity to network with the entire faculty and other students during meals and lectures. In addition to your editorial letter from your mentor\, you will get 2 private consultations\, 1 via Zoom before the retreat and the other during the retreat.\nAt the online workshop\, you will have only 1 private consultation with your faculty mentor\, but you are able to control when/how you ingest the lectures (they are all recorded in case you can’t attend live.) If you have obligations that keep you from travelling to the Retreat Center\, you can still focus on your novel\, take advantage of the valuable feedback\, and make connections—at your own pace.\n\nHere are some blog posts about the Whole Novel Workshop experience:\nDiscovering the Magic of the Whole Novel Workshop \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello \nBe Willing to Nurture Your Kidlit Craft with Big Ideas\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why does the Whole Novel Workshop require an application?The WNW is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. As such\, applicants need to have a completed draft of their novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date. There is no fee to apply; we just want to make sure that this format is the best fit for your goals. \nDo I have to pay for the workshop when I apply?No. You will be notified of your acceptance status and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. \nIs there a minimum word count for my finished manuscript?There is not a minimum. Because the course works for all types of novels (graphic novels\, verse novels\, etc.) it would be hard to set a minimum. \nWhat if my novel is more than your maximum of 85\,000 words?Your faculty mentor will read your one-page synopsis and UP TO 85\,000 words of your whole novel. Should your novel be over 85\,000 words\, we may ask you to summarize a portion\, or compensate your faculty reader for additional word count. \nWhen applying\, how should my submission be formatted? \n\nAs one pdf document\, beginning with your synopsis.\nIn 12-point font with your name on each page of the document.\nYour file should be named as FirstName.LastName_Genre_Title (example: Reilly.Lou_YAHistorical_The Last Home in Ireland.pdf)\nYour submission can be single or double spaced\, whichever works best for the type of novel you are submitting.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How will you match me with my faculty mentor?We get to know students from your application and during the first Zoom session. We then suggest matches to the faculty and the faculty has a chance to accept who they are working with. \nWhat format will my editorial feedback take?Your faculty reader will read your entire novel (up to 85\,000 words) keeping in mind the questions you bring up in your submission cover letter. They will provide an editorial letter for you. For the most part their feedback will be dedicated to BIG-PICTURE revision (as opposed to line-by-line comments.) \nWe cannot stress enough how important the cover letter is to your submission. It is the primary conversation point in engaging your reader in the feedback that you need. \nIn addition to this written feedback\, you will engage in conversation with your faculty reader during a 1:1 Zoom session. This conversation will help you structure your revision and goals in moving forward with this project. \nThese two blog posts can give more insight into the mentor process:How Your Mentor’s Letter Can Help Even Before the Workshop Begins \nWhole Novel Mentors: They Read the Entire Manuscript and They Go Deep 
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/whole-novel-workshop-an-in-person-retreat-for-novelists-august/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:friend50,Graphic Novels,In-Person,Novels,Novels in Verse,Whole Novel Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/boydsmillswholenovelworkshop-2.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261006
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261202
DTSTAMP:20260603T220812
CREATED:20251106T011054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T155428Z
UID:63653-1791244800-1796169599@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Whole Novel Workshop: A Virtual Course for Middle Grade and Young Adult Writers (Fall)
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nApply for this transformative opportunity to have your entire draft (up to 85\,000 words*) of a novel read by faculty\, with detailed written feedback and a private consultation provided. This online program is for any writer of a middle grade or young adult novel. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				KEY DATES: \n\nApply on or before September 16 (with final notifications on or before September 23)\nLive sessions Tuesdays\, 7:30pm – 8:30pm Eastern: October 6 – December 1\n\nLectures: Tuesdays: October 6\, 13\, 20\, 27\, & November 3\nReading week for peer groups: November 10\nPeer to Peer Workshopping: November 17 & 24\nFinal Presentation: December 1\n\n\nAll lectures are recorded for those who cannot attend live.\nComplete manuscript submissions due by November 3.\nFeedback letters delivered to writers by December 14.\n60-minute\, 1:1 Private Zoom Consultation: Scheduled at a mutually convenient time\, December 14 – December 22.\nThe cost of the full course (including live sessions\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultation\, workshopping\, and writing exercises) is $2\,199\nSpots in the program are limited based on availability\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Everyone on the faculty was genuinely interested in helping each student to succeed. They were great about having small or one-on-one conversations as well.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The Zoom sessions were such a highlight of each week! Loved all the instructors and the other students. I feel like I made some friends and took a big step forward with my novel draft.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were awesome. I’ve been through an MFA program in creative writing\, so I know top-notch writing instructors when I see them. Learned some very valuable things about my writing at Boyds Mills.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“After making the revisions suggested by Crystal Allen\, my faculty mentor\, my manuscript won the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators 2022 Emerging Voices Award.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Attending the Whole Novel Workshop changed not only the course of my career\, but also the scope of my writer friendships. I gained so much knowledge by immersing myself into the culture that is part of Boys Mills\, and came away with the exact tools I needed to plunge in\, rework my manuscript\, and sign my first two-book contract with HarperCollins.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why Do I Need to Apply to this Program?\nThere is no fee to apply. \nThe Whole Novel Workshop is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. \nAs such\, you will need to have a completed draft of your novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date (no later than November 3). \nWe ask that you apply to the course to make sure that the Whole Novel format is the best fit for your goals. \nPlease submit: \n\nThe first 10 – 15 pages from the manuscript you wish to workshop\nA one-page synopsis or general outline\nTentative word count\, workshop goals\, and a short bio (including how you are connected to this project)\n\nApplications will be reviewed on a rolling basis\, starting immediately through September 16.  \nYou will be notified of your acceptance status no later than September 23\, 2026\, and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. (You may also use a scholarship that you have been previously awarded to attend a Whole Novel program.) Once manuscripts have been submitted in full there is a cancellation fee of $1\,100. You will receive your feedback letter and consultation with this cancellation. \nThe cost of the full course (including live sessions\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultation\, workshopping\, and writing exercises) is $2\,199. \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nOnline\, Multi-Week Whole Novel Program \nThe Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft of a novel (up to 85\,000* words) read with written feedback and a private consultation\, along with rich presentations specifically designed for novelists at this stage in their writing journey. \nThis virtual course features: \n\nRich presentations (Sessions may include: The Importance of Setting; Deepen Your Characters; Bringing Yourself to the Page; Revision; The Power of Language; and more!)\nWriting exercises and small group workshopping (First 15 pages for peer groups due November 3.)\nA feedback letter offering written insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000* words) to help you prioritize goals and next steps.\nA 60-minute private consultation with your reader to discuss feedback\, revisions\, and next steps.\nConnection opportunities with fellow writers.\n\nAll presentations are recorded for those who cannot attend live. \nPlease note: \n\nIf accepted to the program\, your full novel draft must be submitted to your reader by November 3\, 2026.\n*If accepted\, should your full novel be over the 85\,000 word limit\, you may be asked to summarize a portion\, or compensate your faculty reader for additional length.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou have a complete or near-complete draft of a novel. You’ll get the most out of this workshop if you’re at this stage. Your full workshop novel submission is due November 3.\nYour project is one of many fiction genres\, a graphic novel\, a verse novel\, or a multi-genre novel. If you aren’t sure if your novel fits the program specifics\, please reach out and ask.\nYou would benefit from receiving multiple feedback perspectives. In addition to a whole novel review by your faculty reader\, you will lead a discussion for feedback from fellow writers.\nYou’re willing to work! This program is best for those who will dedicate time and attention to processing feedback\, revising\, writing exercises\, and group sessions.\nYou enjoy online learning. This workshop takes place on Zoom with regular meetings on Tuesdays\, October 6 – December 1. Can’t attend live? Presentations will be recorded. (Please note that 1:1 consultations and small group workshopping will not be recorded.)\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About the Whole Novel Workshop Online\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\n\nYou will spend time with peers in small groups discussing and workshopping select writing assignments from the virtual classroom. You will be expected to read and engage with these short submissions. (Word count will be limited with ample time to read and prepare.) First 15 pages for peer groups due November 3.\nYou will be thoughtfully paired with a faculty reader who will offer written insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000 words)\, and help you prioritize goals. You will receive this written feedback by December 14. A private consultation to discuss feedback and goals with your faculty reader will be scheduled at a mutually convenient time.\nInformal feedback will occur throughout the presentations.\n\nIf you’d like to learn more\, see our note on feedback in our programs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Workshop Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Your novel can make a big impact on a child’s life. This workshop helps you take steps toward bringing it to market in a way that is authentic to your voice and your story\, because that is just what your reader needs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Workshop? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Learn More About the Whole Novel Workshop?\n				Here are some helpful resources from past participants and Whole Novel Workshop faculty: \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique\, with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello\n5 Tips to Make Your Novel Opening a Strong One\nPodcast: Melissa Wyatt on Inspiring Your Writing Practice with Prompts\nTake Your Character to Work Day\nSarah Aronson on Play\, Revision and the Whole Novel Workshop\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				FAQ ABOUT THE WHOLE NOVEL WORKSHOP\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n					Comparing FormatsSubmitting ApplicationsAbout Faculty Mentors\n				\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What’s the difference between the In-Person and Online Whole Novel Workshop?\nBoth versions feature skilled faculty mentors\, craft presentations\, peer group workshopping and writing exercises. The two main differences are: \n\nThe in-person workshop offers a unique opportunity to focus and to network. At our Retreat Center\, you are away from your daily obligations\, cared for by our staff with 3 meals a day\, have a private space to work in\, and the opportunity to network with the entire faculty and other students during meals and lectures. In addition to your editorial letter from your mentor\, you will get 2 private consultations\, 1 via Zoom before the retreat and the other during the retreat.\nAt the online workshop\, you will have only 1 private consultation with your faculty mentor\, but you are able to control when/how you ingest the lectures (they are all recorded in case you can’t attend live.) If you have obligations that keep you from travelling to the Retreat Center\, you can still focus on your novel\, take advantage of the valuable feedback\, and make connections—at your own pace.\n\nHere are some blog posts about the Whole Novel Workshop experience:\nDiscovering the Magic of the Whole Novel Workshop \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello \nBe Willing to Nurture Your Kidlit Craft with Big Ideas\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why does the Whole Novel Workshop require an application?The WNW is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. As such\, applicants need to have a completed draft of their novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date. There is no fee to apply; we just want to make sure that this format is the best fit for your goals. \nDo I have to pay for the workshop when I apply?No. You will be notified of your acceptance status and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. \nIs there a minimum word count for my finished manuscript?There is not a minimum. Because the course works for all types of novels (graphic novels\, verse novels\, etc.) it would be hard to set a minimum. \nWhat if my novel is more than your maximum of 85\,000 words?Your faculty mentor will read your one-page synopsis and UP TO 85\,000 words of your whole novel. Should your novel be over 85\,000 words\, we may ask you to summarize a portion\, or compensate your faculty reader for additional word count. \nWhen applying\, how should my submission be formatted? \n\nAs one pdf document\, beginning with your synopsis.\nIn 12-point font with your name on each page of the document.\nYour file should be named as FirstName.LastName_Genre_Title (example: Reilly.Lou_YAHistorical_The Last Home in Ireland.pdf)\nYour submission can be single or double spaced\, whichever works best for the type of novel you are submitting.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How will you match me with my faculty mentor?We get to know students from your application and during the first Zoom session. We then suggest matches to the faculty and the faculty has a chance to accept who they are working with. \nWhat format will my editorial feedback take?Your faculty reader will read your entire novel (up to 85\,000 words) keeping in mind the questions you bring up in your submission cover letter. They will provide an editorial letter for you. For the most part their feedback will be dedicated to BIG-PICTURE revision (as opposed to line-by-line comments.) \nWe cannot stress enough how important the cover letter is to your submission. It is the primary conversation point in engaging your reader in the feedback that you need. \nIn addition to this written feedback\, you will engage in conversation with your faculty reader during a 1:1 Zoom session. This conversation will help you structure your revision and goals in moving forward with this project. \nThese two blog posts can give more insight into the mentor process:How Your Mentor’s Letter Can Help Even Before the Workshop Begins \nWhole Novel Mentors: They Read the Entire Manuscript and They Go Deep 
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/whole-novel-workshop-a-virtual-course-for-middle-grade-and-young-adult-writers-fall/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:friend50,Graphic Novels,Novels,Novels in Verse,Online,Online Workshop,Whole Novel Workshops
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261018
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261024
DTSTAMP:20260603T220812
CREATED:20251105T231807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T170641Z
UID:63649-1792281600-1792799999@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Whole Novel Workshop: An In-Person Retreat for Novelists (October)
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 6-Day/5-Night Workshop and Retreat with a Full Novel Critique Included \nThis intensive\, transformative Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft (up to 85\,000 words)* of a novel read by faculty\, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations provided. Attention in an intimate setting makes this program one that guarantees significant progress in preparation for submission. This Whole Novel Workshop is specifically designed for writers of novels for children and teens. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nApply on or before August 17 (with final notifications on or before August 24). There is no fee to apply.\nOptional online pre-retreat activities (via Zoom): September 1 & October 6 (2 evenings\, time to come\, Eastern Time)\nComplete manuscript submissions due by September 8\nFeedback letters delivered to writers by October 14\n45-minute\, 1:1 Private Zoom Consultation prior to the retreat: Scheduled at a mutually convenient time\, October 12 – 16\nThe cost of the full course (including retreat + pre-retreat zooms\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultations\, lectures\, and writing exercises) is $2\,799.\nThe in-person workshop at our Retreat Center includes inspirational sessions and opportunities for time in the company of fellow creatives.\n\nBegins with dinner on 5:30pm Eastern on Sunday\, October 18\nEnds after lunch on Friday\, October 23\nWe include ample time to relax\, retreat\, and work on your revisions.\nLodging and meals are included at the retreat.\n\n\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Everyone on the faculty was genuinely interested in helping each student to succeed. They were great about having small or one-on-one conversations as well.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were warm\, inspiring\, wise\, encouraging\, helpful\, and funny. The workshops were as inspiring and as helpful as the presenters. I couldn’t have asked for more!” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The faculty were awesome. I’ve been through an MFA program in creative writing\, so I know top-notch writing instructors when I see them. Learned some very valuable things about my writing at Boyds Mills.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The guest speakers were lovely\, accessible and thorough with their feedback and guidance.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why Do I Need to Apply to this Program?\nThere is no fee to apply. \nThe Whole Novel Workshop is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. \nAs such\, you will need to have a completed draft of your novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date (September 8). \nWe ask that you apply to the course to make sure that the Whole Novel format is the best fit for your goals. \nPlease submit: \n\nThe first 10 – 15 pages from the manuscript you wish to workshop\nA one-page synopsis or general outline\nTentative word count\, workshop goals\, and a short bio (including how you are connected to this project)\n\n\nApplications will be reviewed on a rolling basis\, starting immediately through August 17.  \nYou will be notified of your acceptance status no later than August 24\, 2026\, and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. (You may also use a scholarship that you have been previously awarded to attend a Whole Novel program.) Once the submission deadline has occurred\, there is a cancellation fee of $1\,100. You will receive your feedback letter and one consultation with this cancellation. \nThe cost of the full course (including retreat- lodging\, meals\, and lectures\, + pre-retreat zooms\, feedback letter\, 1:1 consultations\, and writing exercises) is $2\,799. \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why This Workshop?\nThe Whole Novel Workshop offers writers the rare opportunity to have the entire draft of a novel (up to 85\,000 words*) read with written feedback and two private consultations\, along with an inspiring retreat at the Boyds Mills retreat center. Attention in an intimate setting makes this program one that guarantees significant progress in preparation for submission. \nYou’ll move through this program alongside fellow authors who are in the thick of the creative process with you; from our experienced readers to your fellow attendees. Whether you’re working toward getting your first novel published\, or working on the next (or the next!)\, this workshop can help you see your work in a new light. \nYou’ll also participate in “Brain Trust” peer groups.  These are small\, carefully chosen cohorts of your fellow attendees\, plus a facilitator. Your “brain trust” group members will come to the workshop having read your short submission and will have some familiarity with your work. Your “brain trust” guide will then help you bring your own questions and challenges to the group\, so that they may offer you new perspectives and approaches to problem solving. The goal is to use those perspectives as you complete your revisions to bring out the best in your own story. Hear our podcast about “Brain Trusts” here. \nIn all\, this opportunity features: \n\nAn editorial letter offering written insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000 words*) to help you prioritize goals.\nAt least two private consultations with your reader to discuss feedback\, revisions\, and next steps.\nTime to stretch creatively with presentations and prompts.\nSmall group discussions and open space to process your revision ideas.\nConnection opportunities with fellow writers.\n\nPlease note: \n\nIf accepted to the program\, your full novel draft is due on or before September 8.\n*If accepted\, should your novel be over 85\,000 words\, we may ask you to summarize a portion or compensate your faculty reader for additional word count.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou have a complete or near-complete draft of a novel. You’ll get the most out of this workshop if you’re at this stage. Your full workshop novel submission is due by September 8\, and then you’ll workshop it in earnest\, readying it for submission.\nYour project is one of many fiction genres\, a graphic novel\, a verse novel\, or a multi-genre novel. If you aren’t sure if your novel fits the program specifics\, please reach out and ask.\nYou would benefit from receiving multiple feedback perspectives. In addition to a whole novel review by your faculty reader\, you will lead a discussion for feedback from your “brain trust” guides and fellow writers.\nYou’re willing to work! This program is best for those who will dedicate time and attention to processing feedback\, revising\, writing exercises\, and group sessions.\nYou’d appreciate some retreat time. This course has plenty of built-in time to write\, draw\, hike\, revise\, and/or rest: whatever you need.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				About the Whole Novel Workshop\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				DUMMY ROW - WILL BE HIDDEN\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Feedback Can I Expect for My Work? \n				Feedback Expected\n\nYou will be thoughtfully paired with a faculty reader who can offer insights and questions about your drafted novel (up to 85\,000 words)\, and help you prioritize goals. You will receive this written feedback by August 12 and have two private consultations (one via Zoom prior to the retreat\, and one during the retreat) to discuss feedback and goals.\nA specially crafted “brain trust” peer group will be built with your needs in mind. This unique roundtable discussion will host no more than 8 fellow writers\, and will be facilitated by a caring guide who sees that each group maintains a safe atmosphere and centers your needs during the discussion.\nInformal feedback will be offered throughout the workshop via discussions and open sharing during free creative time.\n\nIf you’d like to learn more\, see our note on feedback in our programs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat? \n				As an in-person event at our Retreat Center\, you’ll have a chance to step away from everyday life to experience the retreat. Boyds Mills strives for a safe and inclusive environment. You will have access to our Community Standards prior to the workshop where we ask for your respectful engagement with fellow creatives\, including our faculty and staff. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?\n				Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform\, educate\, and inspire children to become their best selves. Your novel can make a big impact on a child’s life. This workshop helps you take steps toward bringing it to market in a way that is authentic to your voice and your story\, because that is just what your reader needs. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat? \n				You will receive a link to our virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and engage in Boyds Mills related resources (including our Community Standards)\, prior to the event. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Learn More About the Whole Novel Workshop?\n				Here are some helpful resources from past participants and Whole Novel Workshop faculty: \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique\, with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello\n5 Tips to Make Your Novel Opening a Strong One\nPodcast: Melissa Wyatt on Inspiring Your Writing Practice with Prompts\nTake Your Character to Work Day\nSarah Aronson on Play\, Revision and the Whole Novel Workshop\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				FAQ ABOUT THE WHOLE NOVEL WORKSHOP\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n					Comparing FormatsSubmitting ApplicationsAbout Faculty Mentors\n				\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				What’s the difference between the In-Person and Online Whole Novel Workshop?\nBoth versions feature skilled faculty mentors\, craft presentations\, peer group workshopping and writing exercises. The two main differences are: \n\nThe in-person workshop offers a unique opportunity to focus and to network. At our Retreat Center\, you are away from your daily obligations\, cared for by our staff with 3 meals a day\, have a private space to work in\, and the opportunity to network with the entire faculty and other students during meals and lectures. In addition to your editorial letter from your mentor\, you will get 2 private consultations\, 1 via Zoom before the retreat and the other during the retreat.\nAt the online workshop\, you will have only 1 private consultation with your faculty mentor\, but you are able to control when/how you ingest the lectures (they are all recorded in case you can’t attend live.) If you have obligations that keep you from travelling to the Retreat Center\, you can still focus on your novel\, take advantage of the valuable feedback\, and make connections—at your own pace.\n\nHere are some blog posts about the Whole Novel Workshop experience:\nDiscovering the Magic of the Whole Novel Workshop \nPodcast: The Braintrust Critique with Nicole Valentine and Rob Costello \nBe Willing to Nurture Your Kidlit Craft with Big Ideas\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Why does the Whole Novel Workshop require an application?The WNW is reserved for novelists who have made significant independent progress on their drafts and need a review of the “whole novel” to move forward in their revision goals. As such\, applicants need to have a completed draft of their novel that matches the criteria for the course by the submission due date. There is no fee to apply; we just want to make sure that this format is the best fit for your goals. \nDo I have to pay for the workshop when I apply?No. You will be notified of your acceptance status and if accepted\, asked to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit and set up a payment plan or pay your registration in full. \nIs there a minimum word count for my finished manuscript?There is not a minimum. Because the course works for all types of novels (graphic novels\, verse novels\, etc.) it would be hard to set a minimum. \nWhat if my novel is more than your maximum of 85\,000 words?Your faculty mentor will read your one-page synopsis and UP TO 85\,000 words of your whole novel. Should your novel be over 85\,000 words\, we may ask you to summarize a portion\, or compensate your faculty reader for additional word count. \nWhen applying\, how should my submission be formatted? \n\nAs one pdf document\, beginning with your synopsis.\nIn 12-point font with your name on each page of the document.\nYour file should be named as FirstName.LastName_Genre_Title (example: Reilly.Lou_YAHistorical_The Last Home in Ireland.pdf)\nYour submission can be single or double spaced\, whichever works best for the type of novel you are submitting.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				How will you match me with my faculty mentor?We get to know students from your application and during the first Zoom session. We then suggest matches to the faculty and the faculty has a chance to accept who they are working with. \nWhat format will my editorial feedback take?Your faculty reader will read your entire novel (up to 85\,000 words) keeping in mind the questions you bring up in your submission cover letter. They will provide an editorial letter for you. For the most part their feedback will be dedicated to BIG-PICTURE revision (as opposed to line-by-line comments.) \nWe cannot stress enough how important the cover letter is to your submission. It is the primary conversation point in engaging your reader in the feedback that you need. \nIn addition to this written feedback\, you will engage in conversation with your faculty reader during a 1:1 Zoom session. This conversation will help you structure your revision and goals in moving forward with this project. \nThese two blog posts can give more insight into the mentor process:How Your Mentor’s Letter Can Help Even Before the Workshop Begins \nWhole Novel Mentors: They Read the Entire Manuscript and They Go Deep 
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/whole-novel-workshop-an-in-person-retreat-for-novelists-october/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:friend50,Graphic Novels,In-Person,Novels,Novels in Verse,Whole Novel Workshops
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