Woodland Press author to offer SWVCTC creative writing course

LOGAN, W.Va. - Writers and storytellers in Southern West Virginia will have a rare learning opportunity in the coming months as nationally and state recognized author, editor and instructor Michael Knost will teach a creative writing course at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College.

Knost is the author of several books and the editor of the popular Legends of the Mountain State series (published by Woodland Press). He is a columnist for Shroud Magazine and was recently nominated for the Dark Quill Award and the Bram Stoker Award, both international accolades, for his latest book Writers Workshop of Horror, of which he worked with such names as Clive Barker, Joe R. Lansdale, Ramsey Campbell, Gary Braunbeck and others. Knost travels to Brighton, England in March for the Bram Stoker award ceremonies.

He is a Logan County native and has taught comprehensive writing workshops and boot camps in various states, and at conventions and libraries. “My heart is here in West Virginia,” Knost said in an earlier interview. “My heart is also with the many writers living here who need a little guidance and experience. I’m excited to work with Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College because they are an organization with the same heart and passion for this area."

The Creative Writing Series—From Idea to Publishing will tackle a number of subjects to help writers and curious minds learn how to write convincing prose that will stand out from the other manuscripts editors and publishers see on a daily basis. The series of workshops will include four stand-alone courses that, if taken consecutively, will dramatically improve writing technique and publishing opportunities for anyone serious about the craft. “There are no prerequisites for any of the courses,” Knost said. “All you need is a desire to write.”

Knost also pointed out that everyone is welcome—from age 15 to age 115. However, due to limited classroom seating, the series will be on a first come, first serve basis.

--- Friday, February 19, 4:00—6:00 p.m., Guyandotte Room, Building A, Logan Campus
The first course, Plot and Structure, will cover the functions of plot (or story). Students will learn the fundamentals of story and the elements required to insure you have a plot.
Cost: $50

--- Friday, February 26, 4:00—6:00 p.m., Guyandotte Room, Building A, Logan Campus
During the second course, Description, students will learn the proper use for description and how to avoid the normal pitfalls of novice users.
Cost: $50

--- Friday, March 5, 4:00—6:00 p.m., Guyandotte Room, Building A, Logan Campus
The third course, Dialogue, will cover the use of authentic dialogue.
Cost $50

--- Friday, March 12, 4:00—6:00 p.m., Guyandotte Room, Building A, Logan Campus
The fourth course, Creating Characters, will explore the various ways to create dynamic story characters.
Cost: $50

According to Knost, no matter what one wants to write—whether it be romance, horror, science fiction, western, historical fiction, memoirs, Christian, or nonfiction in general—these courses will give you a clear advantage to entering the publishing industry. Students who sign up for all the courses will get a free critique session from Michael Knost after all the courses are completed. This session will be a one-on-one effort in getting a piece of prose ready for submission to a professional market.

To ensure a spot in the class, sign up early by calling Sandra Podunavac, at SWVCTC, at 304.896.7434.