The Map of the Story

Fantasy readers know that some of the best books of all time have a map at the beginning. But here's a secret: every story has a map hidden behind it, even if it isn't printed on page 1. In this course, we'll build a new world and a new story at the same time, using setting as the key to unlock characters, plot, backstory, and more. We'll look at a published example, create story maps of our own, and finish with some writing, including an option to share work with the group.

Age group: teen (13+) | Genre: fiction (any kind) | Required experience: none! | What to bring: pen and paper. We'll be doing a bit of drawing in this class; colored pens/pencils are welcome too (but not required)

MEET THE INSTRUCTOR

Madelin Parsley grew up in the panhandle of Nebraska. She holds an M.F.A. in fiction from Vanderbilt University, and her short stories have appeared in Ploughshares and Narrative Magazine. She's currently working on a novel about five siblings, two small towns, and a family dynamic that is shaped and reshaped by grief. She has taught classes for writers of all ages and interests—in schools, community centers, libraries, and once in the heart of a Tennessee swamp.