Whether you’ve always dreamed of writing a novel or you’re simply curious about what it takes to go from inspiration to holding a published book in your hands, please join local author, Caren Simpson McVicker for the Novel Ideas Workshop and take a deep dive into the novel writing and publishing process. Caren will discuss:
Her favorite books about writing
The differences between being a plotter, pantser, or plantser
Strategies for starting and finishing your first draft
Approaches to editing
The value and potential pitfalls of writers’ groups
The challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing world
There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion. Hopefully, you’ll walk away with new enthusiasm for your own writing project or at least a better understanding of the effort that goes into the latest book you’re reading.
Caren Simpson McVicker lives in Dorset with her husband, a rescue dog, and a barn cat turned happy house kitty. She is also mom to two incredible humans and is an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation. Her debut novel, Henderson House, won Inkshares 2020 All Genre Contest and publishes August 1, 2023. Caren’s career spans more than three decades as a communications professional with experience in public relations, technical writing, and social media consulting. Caren’s past clients include Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch, Frito-Lay, and Nabisco. Since moving to Vermont full-time in 2014, she has consulted for The Artist Book Foundation, Southern Vermont Arts Center, and The Vermont Association of Realtors. Caren is an active member of The Dorset Players, with recent roles including Aunt Eller in Oklahoma and Ethel Banks in Barefoot in the Park. She is a member of The Dorset Church choir and serves as Vice Chair of Southwestern Vermont Health Care’s Foundation Board. When she is not writing, you can find her in the kitchen, in the garden, or out enjoying the beauty of Vermont.