For information on upcoming classes follow me on Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up for my newsletter.
Creative Community
The Writing Room
Four times a year, once each season, I offer an open office hour for previous students, current students, and future students. The Writing Room is offered on Facebook Live. I begin by offering some thoughts about the writing process and creative practice. Participants post questions. To join, pop over to my author page on Facebook. Navigate to Groups. Join the Writing Room by answering two questions. Then, join the live event at the appointment time. This event is always free.
Field Trips
Our community of writers gathers for socials, salons, live readings, literary events and self-guided writing retreats. We attended The Moth at the Tampa Theater. And we follow Black English Bookstore, Tombolo Books, and Print St. Pete.
Workshops
I teach community-based writing classes for a wide range of students, from beginning to advanced, both online and in person. For information on upcoming classes follow me on Facebook and/or Instagram. Sign up for my newsletter where we announce dates and registration details.
Topics include
- The Practice of Poetry
- Revision Skills That Really Work
- Micro Memoir and Prose Poetry
- Story 101
- The Art Reflection
Below are descriptions of a few of my most popular courses.
Story Structure
This course provides an in-depth study of what makes a story work. Students receive the readings in advance of the course, and we spend each morning analyzing the architecture, and the afternoons are devoted to practicing the techniques. Save valuable time as a writer by understanding the principles of how to create a compelling arc for your project.
How to Write a Children's Book
Children’s books are so much harder to create than you might think. There is simply nowhere to hide! And, you have to appeal to the child, as well as the adult who purchases (and reads) the book. In this course you will learn all the basics of structure, plot, and publishing. Leave with a complete mockup of your book.
Narration, Reflection, and Summary
In this content-rich course, you will hone scene building skills, and practice a bevy of strategies for writing unputdownable reflection and summary. You’ll experiment with assembling scenes and their reflective sequels in various proven patterns to create effective story beats.
What Students are Saying
"I have been poetry-averse since elementary school, where I experienced it as a formulaic and intimidating vehicle for confusing innuendo and doublespeak. I took a risk when I signed up for this class, which I did only because I trust Heather and it promised to help me learn to read poetry. “HA! we’ll see,” I said to myself. I had no intention of writing the stuff. But once again, the alchemy of Heather’s guidance took me to a place where obstacles fell away. I began to recognize why I like the poetry I like, and experience it on a visceral level. And then, in the safe space that is her classroom, I was able to access that exquisitely satisfying state of careful observation and put it down on paper, distilled and accessible. Behold! Poetry.
Now I find myself incorporating the skills I tasted in this class to all my writing. It is making me a deeper observer and more able to write what I see clearly and meaningfully. And yes, I read some poetry every day now, loving every minute of it.
I can’t recommend this class enough. Don’t let the P-word put you off."
~ Susan Hudgens
"Heather Sellers’ workshop is a master class in writing. Her extensive knowledge of craft and literature and her ingenious ability to teach the intricacies of what makes writing good are available to writers at all levels. The generosity with which she creates space for all to be vulnerable and brave is truly a gift. To say this workshop was life-changing is not an exaggeration. You will think differently, you will read differently, and you will become a better writer."
~ Connie M, Tampa, FL
"Heather Sellers is a born teacher. She is able to convey complicated writing skills in ways that can be practiced immediately. I recommend her workshops and her books!"
~ Pat Daly, Clearwater, FL
“Heather creates a warm and safe environment to take risks and to learn. Her teaching involves lots of opportunities for practice. She is both funny and so very wise. Her workshops are a gift for any writing student.”
~ Eva I., Toronto
"There is so much content! All the time was full, and there are so many concepts that are so, so useful."
~ Anon, Gulfport, FL