This one-time, one-on-one class is designed for children who are interested in writing their own mysteries. Drawing on my experience as both a 28-year National Board Certified elementary school teacher and the author of the award-winning Chase Manning Mystery Series, I will take students step-by-step from the beginning of the writing process to the end and help them craft stories that will keep readers guessing and on the edge of their seats! It doesn’t matter whether students are already seasoned mystery writers or brand new to the genre. This class promises to take children’s writing skills to the next level as we learn about crimes, crime solvers, suspects, motives, clues, witnesses, alibis, red herrings, and all the other elements that make mysteries so much fun to read and write. The lessons are clear and easy to follow, and they are based on a resource I created called "The Ultimate Mystery Writing Guide for Kids." In addition, I will emphasize valuable writing habits, such as perseverance, pride, and paying attention to detail, and encourage students to enjoy the process and develop a passion for reading and writing. I love teaching students how to write their own mystery stories, and I want everyone to have fun, be creative, and appreciate the joy that writing can offer us. It is my sincere hope that students discover the same love of writing I found while writing my mystery series.
	This class offers students a flexible, customized way to write their own mysteries. The class was previously structured as a 6-week, 12-session course that met twice a week on the same days and at the same times each week. With this new format, students can sign up for one session at time, work at their own pace to accomplish as much as they can during that time, and determine how many additional sessions they will need to complete the project. With each additional session, we will pick up from where we left off the time before. I am happy to work with each family to arrange days and times that work for both of us. The more time students are able to devote to their essays between class sessions, the fewer sessions they will need to write an exciting mystery. After each session, I will send a parent email describing where the student is in the process and explaining next steps.