BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Boyds Mills - ECPv6.15.13.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Boyds Mills
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://boydsmills.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Boyds Mills
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260611
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260615
DTSTAMP:20260603T220819
CREATED:20251105T232036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T005802Z
UID:63576-1781136000-1781481599@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Spotlight on the Middle of Your Novel: A Generative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Workshop and Retreat \nAimed at YA & MG novelists writing in all genres\, this retreat is ideal for writers of all levels—including published and pre-published authors—who find themselves somewhere in the messy middle of a novel-length project. Join celebrated authors Nova Ren Suma and Emily X.R. Pan (and their guests) for a boost of creativity to help you move through the murky and into the exhilarating. \nThis retreat offers a blend of inspiration and generative writing opportunities: craft conversations\, engaging Q&As\, and optional writing prompts. Alongside\, daily writing stretches that prioritize deep\, uninterrupted retreat time so that you’ll have the space to make real progress to move through the middle of your novel towards completion. \nOur hope is that you’ll leave more connected to your story\, and connected to a supportive community of novelists who truly get what you’re going through. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person workshop at our Retreat Center with discussions\, writing exercises\, and Q & As.\nWe include ample time to relax\, retreat\, and work on your writing.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins with dinner 5:30pm Eastern on Thursday\, June 11\, 2026.\nEnds with lunch on Sunday\, June 14\, 2026.\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“I love the connection with the faculty\, the staff\, other participants\, the people who prepared our food and took care of all the details. I appreciate the care and safety that the staff gives us as we shared our work.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Boyds Mills is where my writing self is nourished. Thank you.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Retreat?\nNovels have middles—that is a guarantee.  But you don’t have to navigate through the middle of your novel alone. \nJoin celebrated authors Nova Ren Suma and Emily X.R. Pan\, as well as their guest Meera Treehan\, to move through the middle of your novel towards completion. \nThis retreat offers a blend of inspiration and generative writing opportunities\, as well as uninterrupted\, independent writing time. Whether you’re wrestling with a tangle of plot threads\, feeling a disconnect between stakes and tension\, or just looking for a spark to reignite your momentum\, this is a retreat designed to help you find support\, community\, and a creative flow. \nPlease note that a small portion of the workshop is set to involve outdoor exploration and/or hands-on craft activities. We request that you make note during your registration of any accommodations that can help support you during these happenings. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are actively writing for a middle grade or YA audience\, published or pre-published. The conversations and writing prompts will help you move through the middle of any novel-length project.\nYou are a novelist feeling “stuck.” This workshop has been crafted for creative inspirations with a balance of support and independent time to get writing done.\nYou enjoy discussing stories and your journey with fellow storytellers. You’ll gather ideas and informal feedback about your story in a supportive environment.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of discussions\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow novelists over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail.\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nYou 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).\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, and polish your work during independent time. This retreat is not filled with lecture.  At its heart\, this retreat is time to work on your project.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Thursday\, June 11\, 2026\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Opening Writing Prompt & Welcomes\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Friday\, June 12\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nCraft Discussion #1: “Character & Motivation” with Nova and Emily\nQ & A\nWriting Time\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWriting Prompt\nWriting & retreat time\n\nOptional\, Peer-led Roundtable Discussions\, an overview provided by Meera Trehan\n\n\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nFireside chat and Writing Prompt\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Saturday\, June 13\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nCraft Discussion #2: “Conflict & Tension” with Nova and Emily\nQ & A\nWriting Time\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWriting Prompt\nWriting & Retreat Time\n\nOptional\, Peer-led Roundtable Discussions\, with support from Meera Trehan\n\n\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal sharing fireside\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Sunday\, June 14\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nCraft Discussion #3: “Drafting\, Revising\, and Publishing” with Nova and Emily\nFinal Q & A\nReflection & Packing Time\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & Farewells\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Learn More About This Novel Writing Retreat\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\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\nNovelists will have the opportunity to meet in peer-led roundtable discussions to share work and offer informal feedback. This is an optional component of the retreat. If you do not wish to meet in these groups\, there will be no submission for the program.\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 move away from everyday life to experience the retreat. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds 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. Engaging novels are needed for middle-grade and YA readers. This retreat will help you move through your draft and connect with your story and community. \n  \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). \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Find Resources to Help with Writing My Novel?\n				Find articles and guides on novel writing from our faculty on our blog.\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Nova Ren Suma\nSee More\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Emily X.R. Pan\nSee More\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Meera Trehan\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/spotlight-on-the-middle-of-your-novel-a-generative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asian American Voices,friend50,In-Person,Novels,Novels in Verse,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/sold-out-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260916
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260920
DTSTAMP:20260603T220820
CREATED:20251105T232029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T193719Z
UID:63654-1789516800-1789862399@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Picture Book Authors and Illustrators: A Generative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Working Retreat \nPicture book writers and illustrators: set aside time to focus on your picture book project! Here is a special retreat just for you. Join fiction and nonfiction author Darcy Pattison\, author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski\, and their guests including editor Matt Phipps and more\, to immerse yourself in all things picture books. You’ll enjoy presentations\, read alouds\, small group discussions of your work\, and so much more. In addition to the support from your faculty and fellow creatives\, you’ll have ample time to work on your stories. We recommend bringing several stories at various parts of the drafting and revision processes. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person retreat for picture book writers and illustrators who have at least one draft of a picture book manuscript\, or a dummy (mocked-up picture book).\nSmall group discussions will help move along your project towards a finished state.\nLodging and meals are included.\nNo submission required. Please bring projects to the program with you.\nBegins at 5:30pm Eastern on Wednesday\, September 16\, 2026.\nEnds after lunch on Saturday\, September 19\, 2026.\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“It was really nice getting to have so many discussions and opportunities to talk with faculty about our manuscripts and our work. I really enjoyed being able to have space for 1-on-1’s\, but also able to have time to hear from other folks as well!” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“It really gave me the focus I needed\, to sort out my stories and make a strategy for submissions.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Really went above what was expected — offering mini-sessions on various topics\, surprise picture book readings\, and being available for any kind of questions or discussions.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“I’ve participated in many events\, conferences\, and retreats over my professional career\, and this was one of the most well-run. Essentially all of our personal needs were met\, and the professional staff and writers/illustrators were wonderful.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The cottage was perfect\, the surroundings peaceful and relaxing. I was able to find a balance of work and play. So much thought and consideration has gone into providing an inspiring\, rejuvenating environment.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Retreat?\nAll creatives need time and space to accomplish their goals. We invite picture book creatives to gather in a community of fellow writers and illustrators\, and spend time focused on crafting picture books. \nAt the heart of this working retreat is the “work.”  \nDays will be spent on individual projects\, whether that means sketching in the Art Coop\, drafting new words on the porch of your cabin\, or finally getting to the revisions that your work-in-progress needs. \nBy your side throughout the retreat you’ll hear from fiction and nonfiction author Darcy Pattison\, author/illustrator Leslie Helakoski\, and their guests including editor Matt Phipps\, and more. You’ll enjoy engaging presentations about the art of crafting picture books that kids (and all) will love. In round table groups\, we’ll ask you to bring copies of a work-in-progress for discussion. You’ll have the opportunity to revise your story between round table sessions. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are a picture book creative\, at any level\, in any style. This workshop is open to picture book writers and illustrators who are just beginning and those who have more experience. Of most importance is at least one completed draft of a manuscript or dummy (mocked up picture book.)\nYou write or illustrate for fiction or nonfiction picture books. With faculty and guests who write and draw in a variety of mediums and genres\, you are sure to connect with a faculty member who can help move your project to a new level.\nYou enjoy discussing stories with fellow picture book creatives. Bring your up-to-date manuscript to be read aloud during our facilitated roundtable discussions. You’ll gather ideas and feedback about your story in this supportive environment.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of presentations\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow creatives over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, research\, and polish your work during independent time.\nYou will bring one project for our time in round table discussion. There will be a round table discussion of your work-in-progress.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Wednesday\, September 16\, 2026 \n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\n\nIntroductions will take place over appetizers. Please bring your favorite picture book to use as part of your introduction.\n\n\nFollowing dinner: Expectations and goals for our time together\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Thursday\, September 17\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #1 with Darcy Pattison and Leslie Helakoski\nRoundtable discussions of your work in progress (Part One)\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nDummy Making Workshop\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal gathering fireside (weather permitting)\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Friday\, September 18\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #2 with Darcy Pattison and Leslie Helakoski\nRoundtable discussions (Part Two)\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nRetreat time (including 1:1 consultations with faculty)\nOptional office hours with Matt Phipps\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nFireside sharing and art activity\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Saturday\, September 19\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #3\nFinal round table meetings\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & farewells\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 This Picture Book Author / Illustrator Retreat\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\nEach author and/or illustrator will meet with a faculty mentor for a consultation of their stories. Consultations will include time to discuss where you are in your stories\, and ideas for moving forward with drafting\, revisions\, and/or submissions. No written feedback will be provided.\nYou’ll receive feedback from faculty and fellow storytellers about your story\, during round table group discussions of your work-in-progress.\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\nThere will be an optional office hour with editor Matt Phipps to share questions and ideas.\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. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it is a Working Retreat that combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds 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. Picture books are a beloved part of many children’s lives. This workshop is meant to support and inspire you as you craft a picture book for children. \n \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). The classroom will also house all handouts from your faculty. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Where Can I Find Resources for Writing and/or Illustrating Picture Books?\n				You can find picture book craft articles on our blog.\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Darcy Pattison\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Leslie Helakoski\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Nancy Castaldo\nSee More\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books edited by Matthew Phipps
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/picture-book-authors-and-illustrators-a-generative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:friend50,Illustration,In-Person,Picture Books,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/picturebookauthorillustratorretreat-2.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261001
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261005
DTSTAMP:20260603T220820
CREATED:20251105T232025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T191852Z
UID:63659-1790812800-1791158399@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Middle Grade Writers: A Generative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Workshop and Retreat \nTo write for children\, we need to reconnect with the clever\, imaginative\, and curious core of our childhood selves. Join celebrated middle-grade authors Erin Entrada Kelly and Laurel Snyder for a four-day retreat focused on generative writing inspired by the sleepaway camps of our youth (or the ones we dreamed about!) \nThis retreat is designed for middle-grade writers at all levels\, from beginners to published authors. You are welcome to bring your work-in-progress and/or blank pages from stories you have yet to write. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person workshop at our Retreat Center with engaging discussions\, writing exercises\, and one-to-one consultations.\nWe include ample time to relax\, retreat\, and work on your own writing.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins with dinner 5:30pm Eastern on Thursday\, October 1\, 2026.\nEnds with lunch at 12:00pm Eastern on Sunday\, October 4\, 2026.\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“I really enjoyed this workshop\, learning about writing for a Middle Grade audience while spending time with other writers. The food was wonderful\, as always! And I enjoyed being on campus in the fall. Simply magical!” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Erin and Laurel were so generous and kind with their knowledge and inspiration. I loved the casual format and how they kept things fun. The included one-on-one time was also very valuable.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“There is so much that is positive\, it is hard to narrow down\, but I especially appreciated the quality of the workshops\, the camaraderie between all\, and the one-on-one instructor meetings.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Erin and Laurel were wonderful teachers\, authentic\, personable\, and intelligent. They were so generous with their time and knowledge\, and they treated us like peers.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Thanks to Laurel and Erin! The Playlist you put together was awesome\, as were the arts and crafts. I learned so much from both of you– thanks for being so generous with your wisdom and advice.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Thank you\, thank you\, thank you! I feel like this retreat helped restore my brain and gave me time to play.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Retreat?\nMiddle-grade novels are clever and imaginative\, yet grounded. Some of the very best ones find a way to weave plot and emotional arcs into one impressive narrative that ignites a passion for reading. \nOne way to write authentic stories is to connect with the emotional truth of the middle-grade reader. \nJoin celebrated middle-grade authors Erin Entrada Kelly and Laurel Snyder to discover new ways to start and grow your middle-grade narrative\, with a retreat focused on generative writing and key middle-grade topics like character\, plot\, and voice! \nPlease note that a small portion of the workshop is set to involve outdoor exploration and/or hands-on craft activities. We request that you make note during your registration of any accommodations that can help support you during these happenings. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are just starting to write for a middle-grade audience. You’ll get a broad overview of the landscape of today’s best middle-grade novels.\nYou are a middle-grade novelist wishing to deepen your community and revision. This workshop is centered on the middle-grade novel with craft-focused sessions.\nYou enjoy discussing stories and your journey with fellow storytellers. You’ll gather ideas and informal feedback about your story in a supportive environment.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of presentations\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow MG novelists over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nYou 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).\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, and polish your work during independent time. This retreat is not filled with lecture.  At its heart\, this retreat is time to work on your project.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Thursday\, October 1\, 2026\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Welcome & Introductions via your favorite middle-grade titles\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Friday\, October 2\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nDiscussion #1 with Laurel and Erin\nHands-on writing exercise\, followed by sharing\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWriting & retreat time\n1:1 consultation with Erin or Laurel (ideas\, revisions\, and questions; no written feedback)\nSocial Hour\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nStories around the Campfire\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Saturday\, October 3\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nDiscussion #2 with Laurel and Erin\nHands-on writing exercise\, followed by sharing\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWriting & retreat time\nSocial Hour\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nCampfire Q & A\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Sunday\, October 4\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nDiscussion #3 with Erin & Laurel\nRetreat Time: packing\, writing\, book browse\, and social hour\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & Farewells\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Middle Grade Writers: A Generative Retreat\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\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\nEach novelist will meet with one of the faculty members for a consultation about their work(s)-in-progress. This consultation will not have written feedback or review\, and is structured as a discussion for the needs of your project and publishing based questions.\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 move away from everyday life to experience the retreat. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds 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. Middle Grade novels ignite a passion for reading and spark a child’s imagination. This workshop highlights the many ways to craft a middle-grade novel that will satisfy readers. \n  \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				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Erin Entrada Kelly\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Laurel Snyder\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/middle-grade-writers-a-generative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:friend50,In-Person,Latinx Voices,Novels,Novels in Verse,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/sold-out-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261023
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261027
DTSTAMP:20260603T220820
CREATED:20251105T231856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T155909Z
UID:63587-1792713600-1793059199@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Early Readers and Chapter Books: A Creative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Working Retreat \nSomewhere between the world of picture books and the complexity of full-length novels lives an exciting\, often overlooked creative space—where word count is limited but the storytelling possibilities are expansive. Books in this space fill in the blanks as level readers\, early readers\, chapter books\, with many including spot illustrations or graphic panels. \nThis retreat invites writers to explore that in-between world\, with authors and illustrators Kaz Windness and Vicky Fang\, along with special guest Anne Appert. \nBring an idea\, a draft\, or questions—this engaging retreat will help you understand the needs of this market and how to create with these transitional readers in mind. You’ll experience hands-on sessions\, generative exercises\, and plenty of support. You will also have ample time to retreat for your own writing\, illustrating\, and creating. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person retreat for writers and illustrators interested in learning more about publishing opportunities between picture books and novels.\n1:1 consultations will help you decide which ideas to grow\, and what comes next on your publication journey.\nNo submission required.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins at 5:30pm Eastern on Friday\, October 23\nEnds after lunch Monday\, October 26\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n  \n“There was an abundance of creative energy which fostered the formation of a creative community\, who supported each other in the pursuit of each individual’s love of storytelling.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Retreat?\nKids who are starting to read on their own need to find the books that meet them creatively\, inspirationally\, and more! It isn’t just about the level of reader they are\, it is about what makes them feel like a READER. Writing and illustrating for this reader is an important job and one that Kaz Windness and Vicky Fang take seriously (with a side of laugh-out-loud humor in their stories.) Join them to create books for these readers. In addition to sessions with Kaz and Vicky\, they will be joined by special guest\, author/illustrator Anne Appert. \nExpect energizing craft conversations\, generative prompts\, and ample creative time in a supportive\, collaborative environment. Together\, we’ll explore what it means to write for transitional readers—those just beginning to find themselves in stories—and how to craft books that meet them with joy\, depth\, humor\, and heart. \n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are an author or illustrator\, or an author/illustrator interested in leveled readers\, early readers\, and/or chapter books. This workshop will cover the needs of transitional readers and best approaches for designing your stories with that audience in mind.\nYou enjoy discussing stories with fellow creatives. Fellow attendees will be in discussion with you as you create and share your work.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of presentations\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow creatives over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, research\, and polish your work during independent time.\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Friday\, October 23\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Welcome & Discussion About Transitional Readers with Vicky Fang and Kaz Windness\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Saturday\, October 24\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #1 with Kaz Windness\nWriting/ Sketching exercise #1\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\n1:1 Consultations\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal gathering fireside (weather permitting)\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Sunday\, October 25\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #2 with Vicky Fang\nWriting/Sketching exercise #2\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nSpecial guest session\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal Roundtable Discussions/Sharing\n\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Monday\, October 26\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nWriting/Sketching Exercise #3\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nClosing and final reflections\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & farewells\n\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 This Early Reader / Chapter Book Writing Retreat\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\nEach author and/or illustrator will meet with a faculty mentor for a consultation of their stories. Consultations will include time to discuss where you are in your stories\, and ideas for moving forward with drafting\, revisions\, and/or submissions. No written feedback will be provided.\nThere will be informal\, roundtable discussions about changes you’ve made to your work-in-progress at the retreat.\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\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. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it is a Working Retreat that combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds 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. New readers immerse themselves in characters they love\, series they care about\, and reflections of their world. This retreat is meant to share with you how to craft stories for this age so that kids can love reading. \n  \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 Find Resources for Writing Early Readers and Chapter Books?\n				You can find chapter books craft articles on our blog.\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Vicky Fang\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Kaz Windness\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Anne Appert\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/early-readers-and-chapter-books-a-creative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asian American Voices,Chapter Books and Early Readers,friend50,Illustration,In-Person,LGBTQIA+ Voices,Minds & Bodies,Specialty or Other,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/earlychapterbookswritingretreat-2.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261026
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261030
DTSTAMP:20260603T220821
CREATED:20251105T231812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T161358Z
UID:63678-1792972800-1793318399@boydsmills.org
SUMMARY:Novels in Verse: A Generative Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Overview\nIn-person 4-Day/3-Night Working Retreat \nJoin celebrated authors Rajani LaRocca and Chris Baron for a retreat designed to infuse your verse novel with emotion. Spend focused time on your novel in verse with daily presentations and generative writing exercises. Rajani and Chris will offer open Q & As\, as well as scheduled 1:1 consultations to discuss your projects (no submission needed.) The retreat will include time with their special guest\, joining Rajani and Chris to support your creative journey. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\nThis is an in-person retreat for verse novelists (and/or those interested in writing verse novels) who are looking for light instruction and ample time to work.\nLodging and meals are included.\nBegins at 5:30pm Eastern on Monday\, October 26\, 2026\nEnds after lunch on Thursday\, October 29\, 2026\n\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							 \n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n					\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“The connection in meeting with other verse novelists felt particularly meaningful\, as we were all focused on honing our craft\, but with some coming as seasoned poets and others coming as seasoned novelists\, the perspectives were wide enough that we could still learn from each other\, yet the quality of our work still felt really high. Plus\, our respective levels of commitment to the craft was a solid connector as well.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“Community. I connected with amazing people that encouraged me\, listened to my stories and ideas\, and made me feel welcome and included. I can’t remember the last time I felt this seen and valued in a community\, particularly a community that formed so quickly and shortly.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“It was\, hands down\, the best writing experience I’ve ever had. Too often educational encounters are competitive in nature. In this workshop I felt totally relaxed.” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n					\n						\n						\n							\n“I felt inspired and guided by the instructors and I made a lot of progress on my novel in verse!” \n\n							\n						\n					\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 Working Retreat?\nWe invite verse novelists (and those interested in writing verse novels) to gather with fellow storytellers for an immersive experience where productivity meets inspiration! Join authors Rajani LaRocca and Chris Baron for daily presentations and generative writing exercises. In addition you’ll meet with Rajani and Chris for 1:1 consultations to discuss where you are in your verse novel journey\, and how to get the most out of your retreat time. (No submissions needed.) \nThe beauty of a working retreat is time. Time for you to meet with fellow storytellers. Time for you to wander and reflect on your writing. Time for you to move forward with your goals and works-in-progress. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				It’s a Great Fit If…\n\nYou are a verse novelist\, at any level\, even the idea stage. This workshop is open to those beginning their creative journeys\, to those who have more experience. Of most importance is having a project that you would like to work on during your independent\, creative time.\nYou enjoy discussing stories and your journey with fellow storytellers. You’ll gather ideas and informal feedback about your story in a supportive environment.\nYou’d like a retreat where you can get to work. This retreat is not based on lecture. It’s time to work on your own projects\, with the added immersive experience of presentations\, generative writing exercises\, and time to connect with fellow verse novelists over meals and informal gatherings.\n\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Detailed Agenda\nAll Times are Eastern Time.  \nClick on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail. \n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Pre-Workshop\n\nWe encourage you to bring projects with you to the retreat at various stages in-progress\, as you will have time to draft\, revise\, and polish your work during independent time. This retreat is not filled with lecture.  At its heart\, this retreat is time to work on your project.\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day One: Monday\, October 26\, 2026\n				\n3pm – 5pm Eastern: Arrival and check in\n5:30pm Eastern: Appetizers & Dinner\nFollowing dinner: Retreat overview & welcome\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Two: Tuesday\, October 27\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #1 with Rajani LaRocca\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nGenerative writing prompts (materials will be provided)\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nInformal fireside discussion (weather permitting)\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Three: Wednesday\, October 28\, 2026\n				Morning:  \n\nBreakfast\nPresentation #2 with Chris Baron\nWorking Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nGenerative writing prompts (materials will be provided)\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch\n1:1 Consultations & Writing Time\n\nEvening \n\nAppetizers & Dinner\nVerse Sharing\, fireside (weather permitting)\n\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Day Four: Thursday\, October 29\, 2026\n				Morning \n\nBreakfast\nSpecial Guest Session with Meg Eden\nOpen Working Retreat time: read\, write\, connect\nFinal questions and writing prompt\n\nAfternoon \n\nLunch & farewells\n\n			\n			\n				A Note About How Our Workshop Agendas Change and Evolve\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\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 This Verse Novel Writing Retreat\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\nThere will be informal feedback opportunities and time to share work during generative creative exercises\, and as you connect with fellow attendees.\nEach novelist will meet with one of the faculty members for a consultation about their work(s)-in-progress. This consultation will not have written feedback or review\, and is structured as a discussion for the needs of your project and publishing based questions.\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. It is important to recognize that this is not a “jam-packed” workshop; rather it is a Working Retreat that combines opportunities for learning with ample time to retreat and work on your own projects. \nBoyds 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. Novels in verse impact readers in powerful ways. This retreat gives you time and space to work on your projects\, in a supportive environment. \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 Find Resources for Writing a Verse Novel?\n				\nListen to a podcast featuring Chris Baron and Rajani Larocca\nNovels in Verse Are My Language: 3 Verse Novelists Share Their Passion for the Form\nFrom Literary Hub: The Invitation of Brevity: Ten Novels in Verse That Will Hook You\, from Amber McBride.\nFind articles about writing verse novels on our blog.\n\n			\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Rajani LaRocca\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Chris Baron\nSee More \n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n			\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				\n				Books by Meg Eden Kuyatt\nSee More
URL:https://boydsmills.org/workshop/novels-in-verse-a-generative-retreat/
LOCATION:Boyds Mills Campus\, 392 Boyds Mills Road\, Milanville\, PA\, 18443\, United States
CATEGORIES:Asian American Voices,friend50,In-Person,Jewish Voices,Novels in Verse,Poetry,Working Retreats
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://boydsmills.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/farmhouseboydsmillsretreatcenter-2.webp
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR