In this class, students will be reading “Elantris” by Brandon Sanderson. He is one of the premier authors in today’s fantasy genre.  He generously shares his knowledge not only with his in-person college class but with fans through YouTube.  

Each week we will read a section of the novel, discuss it, and then study Sanderson’s creative writing techniques and advice from videos the students watched before class. Each student will also write their own fantasy story, peer-edit another student’s work, and then revise and present their own.  

If a student would like to arrange for a half-credit class, this can be accomplished by adding a second “Speculative Fiction Reading and Creative Writing” class.

Students' stories will need to be "school" appropriate.  Stories with graphic language, sexual content, or graphic violence are not acceptable in the class.  In other words, all submitted stories need to be "pg." If you anticipate this being a problem, please contact me ahead of time. 

This is a discussion-intensive course that includes constructive criticism and editing of their peers. All students are expected to interact with respect and civility.  I understand that the topics and themes can be controversial and invite disagreement. However, kindness facilitates productive and persuasive conversation. 

If a student needs accommodations, I am more than willing to help out. Learners will never be required to read aloud in class. Please contact me before the semester begins to discuss your learner’s needs.