Yearlong in Science Fiction
Genres: Fiction, Novel, Short Story
Online
Online Open to all levels
Open to all levels 30 Sessions
30 Sessions In this craft-focused class, we’ll discuss and work through methods of writing a speculative fiction story or novel of high quality. Topics covered will include worldbuilding; backstory; creating reader empathy; inclusion and diversity; voice and point of view; character arcs; outlining; setting up and depicting tensions; pacing; and constructing openings, complications, and resolutions. Part of each class will be spent doing writing exercises. Small group and full-class critiques will also be offered, as well as individual consultations.
Please note the following schedule updates not shown in the printed catalogue:
- New start date: 9/27
- New end date: 5/23
No class on 10/18, 11/8, 12/20, 12/27, & additional dates TBD.
Payment plans available. Contact registrar@hugohouse.org for more information.
Registration dates:
August 22: Scholarship Donation Day (Learn more.)
August 23: Member registration opens
August 30: General registration opens
Nisi Shawl
Nisi Shawl (they/them) is the multiple award-winning author and editor of over a dozen books of speculative fiction and related nonfiction, including the Nebula Award finalist novel Everfair; the standard text on inclusive representation, Writing the Other; and the first two volumes of the New Suns anthology series. Their most recent publication is the middle grade historical fantasy novel Speculation, which Lee & Low published in January 2023. They’ve taught and spoken at Duke University, Spelman College, Stanford University, Sarah Lawrence College, and many other institutions. Once upon a time, they conducted a filmed, onstage interview with Octavia E. Butler.
FAQ
Complete FAQHugo House will only process refund requests that are submitted 5 business days or more before the class start date. To request a refund, log in to your account, go to “My Account,” select the “Orders” tab on the left-hand side, click the appropriate order, and request a refund for your specific class. Administrative fees apply. Please see our full refund policy here.
Class sessions may be recorded if a session falls on a holiday, or if a student has access needs. Class recordings are not guaranteed.
We do not tolerate racist, sexist, homophobic, ableist, transphobic or any other oppressive behaviors, regardless of who commits them. Please check out our full community guidelines by clicking here. If an instance of community guidelines are violated and not resolved within the classroom, students may let us know by filling out the student incident report.
Classes may be cancelled if less than 5 students are enrolled within 10 days before the class start date. If for any reason Hugo House needs to cancel a class, students can choose between a full credit or full refund.
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