The Schedule

Workshops

Writing a Spell with Shay Kauwe *

The language we choose when writing casts a spell on the reader. With only a pen and paper, we can slow down time, make grown men cry, and create new worlds. Join this generative class to learn and practice the skills of characterization, worldbuilding, and plot with a few, well-placed words. 

Poetry & Place with Chandanie Somwaru *

Making poetry can also be an exercise in remembering and celebrating community, whether familiar home spaces or exciting new places. This generative poetry workshop guides participants through sensory language, description, and telling details.

Podcasting 101 with Anjoli Roy, Jocelyn Kapumealani Ng, and Dora Jiang *

It's Lit with PhDJ (co-hosted by Anjoli Roy and Jocelyn Kapumealani Ng) and the 'Imi Mo'olelo Podcast (hosted by Dora Jiang) are two of the lit-est literary podcasts. Even better, both are made and produced right here on O'ahu. This hands-on workshop is ideal for those curious about podcasting and the art of storytelling in this contemporary medium.

From Page to Stage: Performance Techniques with D. Keali'i MacKenzie *

Whether you've only dreamt of reading your writing aloud or you're already comfortable in the spotlight, join D. Keali'i MacKenzie, award-winning spoken word poet, to learn techniques for improving your verbal communication skills and stage presence. 

Let’s Shape Your Story: Metaphor in Narrative Design with Alicia Upano

Stories, regardless of genre, need movement to create meaning. Beyond the Three-Act Structure and Hero’s Journey, shapes and patterns in nature can serve as a metaphor in narrative design. In this generative workshop, writers will explore and develop their story through a natural pattern, modeled by the tsunami stages as used in the novel Everything to the Sea.

How to Submit to Literary Journals & Magazines with Amanda Huynh

What literary journals are looking for writing like yours? What happens after you hit "submit"? Learn more about the process of submitting to literary journals - including best practices - with Amanda Huynh, Managing Editor of Mānoa Journal. 

Learn to Query Agents with Lyn Liao Butler

While there are many ways to see one's work in print or online, a literary agent can be a writer's best resource and advocate. But how does a writer go about finding, contacting, and querying agents? And when should this process happen? A "Pitch Wars" mentor and querying coach, Lyn Liao Butler comes with usable advice and insight for any writer curious about literary agents.