It’s taken me the better part of both 2021 and 2022, but it’s FINALLY done: Story Medicine–the course for writers who want to use their power as storytellers to support a more just and verdant world. I’ve been an editor and book coach for over a decade now, and in this course, I’m sharing some of the most critical things … Read More
If the Problem’s Not Your Plot, What Is It?
There are a few major reasons people come to me as an editor and a book coach, and this is something I’ve been reflecting on as I prepare for the class I’m teaching for Jane Friedman this Thursday, Maybe It’s Not Your Plot. Generally speaking, people come to me because: They have an overwritten novel (sometimes hugely so; I’ve worked … Read More
How does transformation begin?
Recently, I’ve been reflecting on transformation–in art, and in life. This week found me back in Portland. After two years away, due to the pandemic, it’s been a deeply meaningful time of connecting with old friends. I’ve known one of these friend since my midtwenties. Like me, she’s a graduate of Prescott College; like me, she’s had a career as … Read More
Traci Skuce in conversation with Susan Defreitas
On February 7, I had the pleasure of presenting on one of my favorite subjects at Traci Skuce’s Write Your First (or Next!) Novel Summit. You may hear me getting a little evangelical here about character arc! It’s a subject I speak and write about often, because I believe it truly is “the heart of story.” Never miss a post! Subscribe … Read More
