Writing Novels for Tweens and Teens: Mastering Connection in this Big Wide World with Kiri Jorgensen

In this class, writers will learn the ins and outs of the kidlit world, the story elements that are vital for these ages, and how to craft their own stories to connect with their readers. We’ll deeply explore voice, motive, and plot, plus a dive into how to pitch your story to agents or publishers. Classes will include instruction, lots of examples, worksheets for practice and application, and opportunities to submit your own writing for analysis. To get the most out of the class, participants should have a partial or completed manuscript. Students in planning stages of writing will also benefit, and can use the course to push them in writing a first draft.

Kiri Jorgensen is the Publisher and Senior Editor at Chicken Scratch Books. She is also a writer, teacher, entrepreneur, wife, and mother. Her involvement in the world of children’s literature spans almost three decades from several different angles. She taught school for 16 years where she created writing curriculums for elementary and middle school students. She has written and produced over 30 stage plays for children, and taught writing to kids, teens, and adults in multiple settings and genres. As a sought after editor, she also served as the Regional Advisor for SCBWI Montana where she organized physical and online learning opportunities for writers across the nation. Since starting Chicken Scratch Books in 2020, her varied skillset has been put to good use. Her passion is all books middle grade and loves to work with authors to bring their vision to its strongest form.

How Does The Course Work?
This Master Class is designed to help you build, analyze, and revise a full-length novel for tweens or teens. The instruction and tools you’ll receive will support you in your writing journey.
You will meet via Zoom each week for 2-hours. These sessions will be recorded, but you will get more out of the Master Class by attending live and engaging.
This course meets on Mondays from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Mountain Time)