Next class date is Sunday, May 7, 2023, 4-6 PM Pacific time.
No one can doubt the enormous influence and popularity of Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat books and plot-construction model. While Snyder’s beat-sheet generator has plenty of critics who dismiss it as formulaic (ignoring the hyper-valuable formulas of sonnets and classical tragedies), the model is an extremely useful way to generate a protagonist and plots—and identify what’s missing—in minutes. But there’s one key problem in Snyder’s model, and it’s built right into the title.
Learn how to “Save the Mouse” so you can free yourself of useless characters, “Magical Negroes,” and flaccid filler, while creating your most crackling character relationships to supercharge your plots!
Join Minister Faust for a workshop in which he teaches you how to save more than the cat.
Classes are taught online and require reliable Internet connection, although in the past participants have logged on from coffee shops, cafes, and even an airplane; a webcam is suggested but not required. They are recorded for the benefit of class members only.
Cost is $99 ($79 for former students, which includes classes/workshops with me in other venues, such as conference or convention workshops and mentoring sessions). Patreon supporters receive a discount or free classes, depending on their support level.
To register for this class, send an email with the following details:
- Which class or classes and the dates you would like to register
- Whether you would prefer to pay via Paypal, Venmo, or some other means.
- Whether or not you are a former student or Patreon supporter
- How you heard about Cat’s classes
You will be invoiced when the class slot is reserved.
Free scholarships: If you cannot afford a class but really want to take one, apply for a Plunkett Scholarship. Each class has three slots reserved for such students, and the sole criteria is only that you can’t currently afford the class. To apply for a Plunkett, which covers the entire cost,mail me and tell me why you want to take the class in 100 words or less. QUILTBAG and PoC candidates are especially encouraged to apply.
The Plunkett Scholarships are named for Edward Plunkett, who wrote as Lord Dunsany. Scholarships are given out on a rolling basis; I suggest getting them in sooner rather than later. You may apply for up to three classes.
