Novels-in-verse challenge writers to tell stories with far fewer words. But while to some this may feel like a test, it’s also an opportunity to play: with format, white space, word choice, metaphors, structure, rhythm, and more. In this seminar, writers will be asked to re-imagine scenes from a work-in-progress with an emphasis on how we can transform scenes and heighten their impact when we stretch beyond the limitations of prose. No previous experience with novels-in-verse is required, but students should come with a story they’ve been working on and a willingness to write bravely.

BIO: Kate Fussner (she/her) is a novelist, teacher, and accidental poet living in Massachusetts with her wife and dramatic dog. Her debut novel, THE SONG OF US, is a queer middle grade novel-in-verse based on “Orpheus and Eurydice” (HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books, May 30, 2023). Kate holds her B.A. in English from Vassar College, her M.Ed. from University of Massachusetts Boston, and her M.F.A. in Creative Writing for Young People from Lesley University. Kate believes in the power of a good laugh and a good cry, and hopes her stories will provide readers with both.