First Pages Workshop

Caren Gussoff and Cat Rambo at Emerald City ComicCon., Seattle, 2014.

Two instructors ready for new pages.

Instructors: Cat Rambo, Rachel Swirsky (team taught)

This class is not currently scheduled. Subscribe to the newsletter to be notified next time it is offered.

Live classes are taught online via Google hangouts, are limited to 15 participants, and require reliable Internet connection, although in the past participants have logged on from coffee shops, cafes, and even an airplane. A webcam is strongly suggested but not required. If there is an on-demand version of the class, you will be provided with a free coupon for it, so you have access to those notes.

To register for a class, send e-mail with the following details:

  • The email address that you use for Google stuff.
  • Which class or classes and the dates.
  • Whether you would prefer to pay via Paypal, check, or some other means.
  • Please identify yourself if you are a returning student or support Cat or Rachel on Patreon to qualify for the special rate.

You should receive confirmation of your registration within 48 hours.

Free scholarships: If you cannot afford a class but really want to take one, apply for a Plunkett Scholarship. Each class has a slot reserved for such a student, and the sole criteria is that you can’t afford the class but really think it would be useful for you. To apply, mail me with your name, the class name/date, and a brief statement about why you want to take the class. QUILTBAG and PoC candidates are especially encouraged to apply. The Plunkett Scholarships are named for Edward Plunkett, who wrote as Lord Dunsany. Scholarship recipients will be notified the week before the class.

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Notes and Testimonials

  • This is an awesome little class! It was so very useful to sit in on a session with two editors and see what they are looking for in a selection of first pages. It pointed out several issues of my own, including passive voice, establishment of narrator and POV. If you are considering submitting your work soon, this is the class to take! -Sarah Hendrix
  • I’ve sat in on a con panel of this class without Louise Marley, but did not submit any first pages. Cat addresses both what is working and what isn’t and exactly why in an encouraging yet direct way. When I have some first novel pages I am taking them to Cat and Louise! -Danielle Gembala
  • The First Pages Workshop with Cat Rambo was lively this morning. I’m sure we ALL learned something! -Louise Marley