Fanfiction is an amazing tool for developing writing skills, building a community, and exploring experiences and identities in a supportive environment. Published authors like Rainbow Rowell, Cassandra Clare, Neil Gaiman, Lev Grossman, Seanan McGuire, and Holly Black have all written—or still actively write—fanfiction. The conflicts and events these authors examine in their fanworks often make their way onto the published page as part of original short stories and novels. The importance of transformative fanworks to the literary community was recently acknowledged when the fanfiction site Archive of Our Own (AO3) received the prestigious 2019 Hugo Award for science fiction. Fanfiction and its commentary/impact on culture is even studied at universities!

This class has a major social component. Discussion of source material, fic, tropes, and even life experiences are an important part of the fandom experience. These discussions can lead to better representation in works, a clearer vision of what type of story a writer would like to create, and how to set/enforce/respect boundaries in fandom spaces. 

In this class, students will learn to navigate the nuanced culture of fandom. Quarterly prompts encourage writers to explore concepts and experiences through the use of their favorite characters, settings, and fandoms ; prompt responses can be posted to Collections on AO3. Students may create and share works based on any source media, including books, comics, movies, television, musical theatre, music/bands, video games, and even historical events. We will also discuss how to leave appropriate, respectful comments on others' published fanfiction. We will frequently touch base on how to safely navigate fanfiction platforms and filter content in/out.

Learners in this class also have access to a Google Classroom where they can more easily share drafts of their work or discuss fandom issues. New class members will be given the Google Classroom link upon enrollment. 

This class is geared towards LGBTQ+ learners who are looking for a safe and supportive environment to explore themes relevant to their lives through fiction.