Ready to write that book?
Do you have a story inside, or maybe just a spark of an idea? Not sure where to begin the process of writing a book? We’re here to help. Join our small, committed community of writers, supporting each other to work through what is often a solitary process — starting YOUR novel.
Whether you’re a committed plotter seeking a path to follow or you’re a pantser who wants to learn more about what makes a coherent and authentic story tick, this workshop is for you. You’ll find the structure, accountability, clarity, and flexibility you need to start your book.
By participating in one of our tested six-week modules, you'll find inspiration for your book-length project.
In Illuminating Your Story, you'll explore methods for storytelling and character development and be set up to confidently dive into your first draft.
Already at work on a project, and looking for support, accountability, and guidance forward? You'll find all that in Fire Works.
Looking for something to keep you going? Whether or not you're already at work on a book-length project, if you're a writer seeking inspiration, check out Tending the Fire.
Our process is not prescriptive, but inquisitive. Come with a sense of curiosity and discovery, and leave with the conviction to ignite YOUR write.
About Us
What happens when a plotter and a pantser collide? Creative sparks fly. Working together, Anita and Claire found middle ground with just the right amount of scaffolding and lots of creative freedom. Ignite Your Write was born. They banked the fire by testing their program with a group of established and emerging writers from different genres for 14 weeks. With peer support, amazing things happened. And join us on this journey. No workshopping. No critique. Writers were on fire — and now you can be too!
Anita Allen Although neurotypical, Anita is part of a vibrant neurodiverse family, a trait shared by at least one of the family pets. Her writing explores the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health, intergenerational trauma and breaking cycles. She has been offering writing workshops and retreats for the past six years, merging her passions for wellness and creativity. Anita is a Certified Coach, Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) facilitator and graduate of The Humber School for Writers, The Sarah Selecky Writing School, and Spark Your Story Intensive, where she received mentorship from award-winning Canadian authors Rowan McCandless and Nicole Breit. In her spare time, she does laundry, procrasti-knits, and enjoys doggy cuddles.
Photo Credit: Mike Oksman
Claire Sheridan is a US-based freelance writer, editor, and an AWA-certified writing group facilitator. She enjoys debating about policy, current events, and critical existential concerns such as the best gluten-free cookie recipe. After a career in crime, working with victims and offenders, she prefers being outdoors — far from prisons, hospitals, offices, and other institutions dedicated to trauma and discomfort.
Questions? Reach out to us at igniteyourwrite@gmail.com.
Testimonials
"This workshop provides more than guidance on how to write a novel in 90 days. It provides a community to raise and resolve issues and the sense that a writer does not have to isolate herself to produce work. The exercises/prompts allow for deepening insights into characters, plot, setting — all the necessary elements of craft — and also reflections on the writer's personal process. Both are priceless."
Barbara Krasner, Ph.D., M.F.A.
Author, educator, speaker