James Patterson's Master Class: My Work In Progress...
I have been teased long enough by the ads on Facebook. I took the plunge and decided to take James Patterson's Master Class on Writing. I paid for the program, I printed out my workbook, and I began my lessons. The goal for me was to get a better sense of how to outline and write dialogue. However, if I am being totally honest, I also wanted to learn more about the man behind so many intriguing and meticulously planned works of genius. Here's a fun fact... I have never read any of his adult fiction novels. As a middle school teacher I was introduced to his youth series Middle School the Worst Years of My Life and immediately I was hooked. The intricate design and path the characters take challenges and delights the readers at every turn, and I appreciate the complex storylines provided for a much younger, but incredibly captive audience.
Master Class Overview:
22 Video Lessons that range from six to fifteen minutes
A workbook that corresponds with lessons and includes pages for notes
Class Discussion- This has been a useful tool as it is a very supportive and engaged community of writers.
Homework Assignments. For Example, I am on lesson 3 and I need to brainstorm three story ideas. I am still in the brainstorming phase.
Tips:
Schedule Writing Time: This is one of the first lessons we learn just about anywhere. If you are going to improve your skills in any activity you must first make that activity a priority. SO... with that being said; buy a planner, print a free calendar off of Google, draw one yourself if you are super crafty (I am not so Google it was) and set aside time each day to write.
Take it Slow: To be honest. I have no idea what the average time for completion is in this class. It is self-paced, which I love, and really will depend on when the muses decide to drop a little inspiration your way. I started this back in February I think, and am still only on Lesson 3. Rome wasn't built in a day, and my skills as a writer will not develop overnight.
Just Keep Writing: This is probably the hardest part, for me specifically. I make a plan, I schedule my time, and then... I stare at my computer screen, get frustrated when nothing happens, and go eat a pint of Baskin Robbins Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. If only creative writing were as easy as writing these posts.
As I am still only on Lesson Three I cannot provide a full review yet, but what I can say about Mr. James Patterson and his class so far is this... I love it. Mr. Patterson is a warm, relaxed, open and very real individual. He is not some kind of mythical creature or demigod to be revered, he is simply a man who was persistent enough and made his dreams come true. I look forward to the struggles and successes ahead as I forge my way through this Master Class. The community of passionate writers that I have surrounded myself with will only make me a better, and I am excited to see where my story takes me.
