Masterclass: Getting Started On Your Children’s Novel | Character, plot and finishing the first draft | Arvon
Masterclass: Getting Started On Your Children’s Novel
Book

Masterclass: Getting Started On Your Children’s Novel

Character, plot and finishing the first draft
Tutor
  • Nadine Aisha Jassat
Date Tuesday March 4th 2025, 19:00-21:00 GMT
Location Online

Have you always wanted to write a novel for children but were not sure where to begin? How do you develop a compelling protagonist, how do you weave a plot from start to finish, or go from that first sentence to final page? How do you even start? Working with Carnegie-nominated author Nadine Aisha Jassat, this Masterclass will help you connect to and hone your ideas for younger readers. Nadine’s specialty is heart-stealing middle grade novels, but whether you’re writing middle grade or YA fiction, there will be exercises to help you connect to your inspiration, develop your character and devise your plot, alongside key editing considerations to help your work really shine for young readers. Come ready to explore your ideas and connect to your characters, with an open mind, a ready pen, and that children’s novel inside you that’s eager to be freed.


Is this session for me?

Our masterclasses are regularly attended by writers who:

  • Are hungry for fresh thinking, stimulus and new ways into their writing
  • Are looking to keep up or boost their writing momentum
  • Have time constraints and can’t always commit to the live experience
  • Are wanting to try something new
  • Enjoy taking things at their own pace
  • Are looking to develop a regular writing habit
  • Are looking for a supportive environment in which to open up creatively

What will I gain?

  • A two hour writing workout – at your pace
  • Two hours of inspiring tuition from the finest writers at work today
  • Two hours to focus on your writing with guidance from experienced Arvon tutors
  • Two hours of craft, technique and writing prompts
  • Two hours that will propel your writing forward
  • Support from friendly Arvon hosts
  • Becoming part of an inclusive creative community
  • Access to the recording afterwards

How does it work?

The Masterclass will be delivered via Zoom webinar, so you can take the session at your own pace, without the pressure of having your video or camera on. You can contribute via the chatbox with your tutor and other writers attending the session. Sessions are also recorded so if you are unable to attend live, you will have access to the recording afterwards. Masterclasses can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Just translate the UK time to your local time zone.

Why Arvon?

Arvon is a not-for-profit charity that has been running since 1968.

At Arvon, everyone who crosses the door of one of our writing houses is a writer – no matter what their age or writing experience – and all are welcome.

For more information About Arvon – Home of Creative Writing since 1968 – Arvon

Online: £40

Concessions: £20

As part of our effort to increase participation in the arts, half-price concessions are available for this course at checkout. There are a limited number of free subsidised places for those who cannot afford the concession price.

We are committed to making our Arvon at Home programme accessible to as many people as possible.

Across all of Arvon at Home

Masterclasses 

Online Writing Day

How I Write

Online Writing Weeks and Evening Courses

Subject to funding/permissions (please contact arvonathome@arvon.org for more details)

If you have any access issues that we have not covered here, please contact us on access@arvon.org

See here for more access information.

"These zoom opportunities are really helping to open my world and keep me inspired to write."
— Masterclass participant
"Arvon at Home creates a model to participate in inspirational tutoring for writers, at a distance. The feeling of attending to my writing life in an excellent fashion, and still having a half-day for my work and caring responsibilities at home, felt like a good balance."
— Masterclass participant
"It was an absolutely brilliant session and very very useful. And it made me realise how much I’ve missed this kind of workshop because of having children and family that I can’t leave. Now we’re all in the same boat the online stuff is truly transformative."
— Masterclass participant

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