Do you have a book in you? The Book Nook will help you to find out
with courses for everyone!
Welcome to The Book Nook! Whether you want to be a published writer, or you fancy dipping a tentative toe in the water of creative writing, you have come to the right place. Browse the articles and links to find out more - or take the plunge and enrol on a writing course.
My name is Lynn Huggins - Cooper, and I have been a full time writer for 16 years. I have over 300 books in print, ranging from educational books for children, to novels and self-help books for adults.
I have been a columnist for the Times Educational Supplement, and have
written for national publications such as Prima magazine and The
Independent newspaper. I write a weekly feature for The Journal in Newcastle.
My latest book is One Boy's War, a picture book for Frances Lincoln. It is currently part of an exhibition at The Imperial War Museum in London - due to transfer to IWM North in Manchester next year - then on to Seven Stories in Newcastle!
A poignant tale based on the true story of a child ensnared in the First World War. Told in epistolary form, the book highlights the socio-history of the period, evoking trench life to chilling effect.
Though the history section shelves are groaning with world war titles, find room for this indictment of the First World War through the eyes of a 16 -year-old volunteer. 'I never thought it would be like this,' he writes, and the soft illustrations set the grim scene.
More reviews:
5 stars - A heart wrenching tale based on the true story of a child fighting in the First World War. www.bettybookmark.co.uk
Although it is in picture book, 'One Boy's War' is no fairytale. The atmospheric, well-structured story rounds off with a twist that will stay with the reader for a long time. This account of how things really were in the so-called Great War is a thought provoking read for young teens.
Irish Examiner
If you live within reach of Newcastle/County Durham, or are willing to travel (recommended bed and breakfast lists available at special rates) weekend and short courses are available. I also run intensive one day and evening courses.
All taught courses take place in a small group setting to guarantee maximum tutor/student interaction.
Is there a book in you?
The
one day course involves looking at your own body of work. Work in
progress must be emailed to Lynn a month before the start of the course.
The course entails a critique of your work as well as discussions of
how - and where - you can look for markets for your work.
Cost: £99
A
home made organic soup lunch is included; special dietary needs catered
for. The half hour soup break is a 'working lunch' where discussion
will continue.
NB minimum of 6 bookings needed for courses to run
To book:
Email: courses@thebooknook.org.uk
One day course dates for 2012
Sunday January 15th, 11 am - 4pm
Sunday March 18th, 11 am - 4pm
Sunday May 13th, 11 am - 4pm
Sunday July 15th, 11 am - 4pm
Sunday September 16th, 11 am - 4pm
Sunday November 11th, 11 am - 4pm
Evening Courses Spring 2012
Evening courses are arranged in sets of four sessions.
An Introduction to Writing for Children
This four week course will lead you through the process of starting out in writing for children. We
shall look at writing picture books, educational writing, novels for
older readers, writing for comics, writing for the Internet, and portfolio presentation.
Assignments will be given as a part of this four session course.
Dates for 2012
February - every Thursday - 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd Time: 7.30 - 10.30
August - every Thursday - 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd Time: 7.30 - 10.30
Cost: £120 for four sessions and follow up
NB minimum of 6 bookings needed for courses to run
To book:
Email: courses@thebooknook.org.uk
Creative Writing for Beginners
This
popular course will next take place in April 2012. It's a great way to
ease your way into creative writing and build your confidence. We'll
share work and take part in a variety of creative exercises to spark
imagination.
Dates for 2012
October -every Thursday - 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th Time: 7.30 - 10.30
Cost: £120
for four sessions and follow up
NB minimum of 6 bookings needed for courses to run
To book:
Email: courses@thebooknook.org.uk
Writing Information and Self-Help Books
This
new course will next take place in June 2012. If you have an idea, and
need to know how to translate that into a book proposal, this is the course for you! Maybe you are an expert dog breeder, or bake great cakes and want to write a 'how to' guide. You bring the idea; I'll show you how to get it down on paper in a style publishers will love.
Assignments will be given as a part of this course.
Dates for 2012
Cost: £120 for four sessions and follow up
NB minimum of 6 bookings needed for courses to run
To book:
Email: courses@thebooknook.org.uk
Terms for Courses:
A £25 non - refundable booking deposit will secure your place on any course listed. Please ensure you can attend all sessions as there are no refunds available. In case of sickness, course materials and assignments will be emailed to you directly so you do not fall behind. Payment in full required on the day (or first session for evening classes).
Online Courses
For
students who are unable to attend courses in person, online courses are
available, including all materials and one-to-one online support.
Assignments are emailed to you and evaluated before being returned with
helpful comments and suggestions.
Online
courses consist of ten units, supported by online communication
(individual instant messenger session, group chat sessions, group
discussion list and emails). The units can be worked through at your own
pace and fitted around family and work commitments. Portfolios can be
appraised as a part of this course by arrangement via post or as online
scans.
The
course involves looking at a range of published materials, identifying
your interests and strengths, sharing work and looking at building a
portfolio. The practicalities of how projects are commissioned and
managed will also be discussed, and we shall look at proofs and
specifications from actual projects, from commission to publication.
Online courses may be started at a time to suit you. Payment in full is expected before the course commences.
The
online chat list facility for students is a very useful way to discuss
progress and ideas, and hear about potential markets for your work. Once
you enrol on a course you will be sent an invitation to join the list - and you remain a member, even after your course is complete!
Currently Available:
Writing for Children
Writing Self-Help books for adults
Sparking your Creativity
Writing Your First Novel
To Book email: courses@thebooknook.org.uk
Write Time has courses available specially for educators. Check out
the website: