Spoiling a Notebook is a workshop designed for anyone who, faced with a blank page, isn't sure where to start. This class works especially well for teachers, bartenders, musicians, pipefitters, and anyone else who isn't sure about “being a writer” but still has stories to tell. However, the workshop is fun and useful even if you are the bestselling author of dozens of books. Based on the teaching practice of MacArthur “genius” grant winner Lynda Barry, the class will surprise you with memories you've forgotten, inspire you with playful exercises, and encourage you with enthusiastic acceptance. Come one, come all!
Credit: Alia Smith
Dan Kois is a longtime writer, editor, and podcaster at Slate. He's the author of two novels, Vintage Contemporaries and the forthcoming Hampton Heights. With Isaac Butler he co-wrote The World Only Spins Forward: The Ascent of "Angels in America", a Stonewall Honor title, and he's also the author of a memoir, How to Be a Family, and a book of music criticism, Facing Future. He lives with his family in Arlington, Virginia.