By Leslie Cox
Special to the Record
The seventh annual North Island Writers Conference (NIWC) kicks off with the Opening Night event on Friday, Jan. 19 at 7 p.m.
Attendees are invited to join the event at the Stan Hagen Theatre, North Island College Comox Valley campus, to listen to the keynote speaker, Dr. Tilar Mazzeo.
Dr. Mazzeo, an award-winning author whose works have graced the New York Times, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Chronicles bestsellers lists. She is currently immersed in crafting a biography about the 19th-century merchant-mariner, Mary Ann Patten. Patten captained the clipper ship, Neptune’s Car, around Cape Horn.
On Saturday, Jan. 20, weekend unfolds with six workshops that promise an enriching experience. Among them is Dr. Mazzeo’s workshop on Writing Dynamic Narrative Non-fiction and Susan Juby’s exploration of the Intricacies of the Humorous Novel, both offering valuable insights.
Local celebrity authors Judy LeBlanc and Jo-Anne (JP) McLean lead workshops on Telling the Truth, and Writing Deeper Dialogue, respectively. For those intrigued by flash fiction, Robert Hilles from VIU in Nanaimo will guide participants on gaining momentum in Flash Fiction: Make It Happen Fast.
Environmental enthusiasts can delve into acclaimed author and eco-futurist Guy Dauncey’s workshop, where they can learn to be influential environmental writers without resorting to sensationalism.
Authors seeking personalized guidance have the opportunity for a one-on-one session in the Blue Pencil Café with local editor, Dave Flawse.
For comprehensive details about the 2024 NIWC program and the online registration form, visit bit.ly/48vz1TW
For additional information, please contact info@cvwriterssociety.ca.