Book Kelley! - Kelley Lindberg

Kelley loves talking about writing with other writers, book lovers, and students. She offers dynamic presentations on some of the thornier aspects of writing, filled with real-life examples. Her dynamic, hands-on workshops let writers tackle writing concepts in a positive, creative group format. Her audiences leave with plenty of “take away” information and tips they can use the very next day.

Kelley is willing to travel for speaking engagements, depending on distance and expenses. She’s available to speak on the following topics. She’s also open to creating new presentations based on your needs.

Book Kelley!

QUERY LETTER WORKSHOP

Learn the dos and don’ts of query letters, then take what you’ve learned and tackle each other’s query letters in this hands-on workshop.

OFF TO A GREAT START

Your opening sentences lay the groundwork for the entire work. Learn how to grab your reader, plant your story’s roots, and make promises you can keep.

DO YOUR SETTINGS WORK AS HARD AS YOU DO? …IT WAS A DARK AND STORMY WORKSHOP

If your settings aren’t doing double duty, they’re not working hard enough. Explore how your settings can establish subtle but vital tone, mood, and atmosphere. Make settings an important tool in your “show, don’t tell” toolbox.

BLANK PAGE BUSTERS: JUMP-START YOUR CREATIVE SPARK!

Bring your favorite writing implement/device and get ready to generate new ideas, inject new life into your scenes, or just get your creative energy flowing quickly and painlessly in this fast-paced and fun workshop.

THE NON-SCARY ART OF THE INTERVIEW FOR FICTION AND NON-FICTION

Sure, Google’s fine for the basic facts, but you’re not interested in writing a basic story. First-person interviews are essential for uncovering the details, unexpected twists, and heart that can elevate both your fiction and nonfiction. Learn how to painlessly interview anyone about anything.

POWER UP YOUR CREATIVE NONFICTION (FOR ADULTS)

Learn how to link personal experiences to universal truths (and vice versa) and how to steal a technique from artists to add depth, elevating your story from a series of anecdotes to a truly powerful memoir, essay, or other creative or narrative nonfiction.

WRITING A PERSUASIVE ESSAY THAT DOESN’T REEK (FOR MIDDLE GRADE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS)

Learn how to define your audience, brainstorm details to support your idea, and avoid shortcut words that don’t mean what you want them to.

LANDING THAT SECOND CONTRACT (OR, HOW TO BE AN EDITOR’S PET)

Just a few common-sense tactics will ensure your editor asks you back for more.

THE WRITER’S LIFE

So you want to quit your day job? (Can be a solo presentation or a panel discussion with additional authors.)

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY MANUSCRIPT?

How to research markets, editors, and agents to find the ones most likely to be interested in your manuscript.

TRAVEL WRITING

You don’t have to go to exotic places to be a travel writer (most publishers want you to write about the place you know best: your own community!) Learn how to turn your own experience into travel stories that publishers want.

IS A WRITING OR CRITIQUE GROUP IN YOUR FUTURE?

Learn which types of writing groups are for you, as well as how to be a great critiquer.

WHO IS YOUR AUDIENCE? (HINT: IT’S NOT YOUR TEACHER)

Two versions: one especially for middle grade and high school students, and one for adult writers.