University of Iowa

Leslie Schwartz

Leslie Schwartz has written two award-winning novels, Jumping the Green and Angels Crest. She recently published a memoir, The Lost Chapters; Finding Recovery and Renewal One Book at a Time. She won the James Jones Award for best first novel for Jumping the Green and was named Kalliope Magazine’s Woman Writer of the Year. She has also been the recipient of many awards, including three artist-in-residence grants from the L.A. Department of Cultural Affairs, the West Hollywood/Algonquin Award for Public Service in the Arts, and a California Council for the Humanities Fellowship. Her two novels have been published in 13 languages. Angels Crest was also adapted for the screen and premiered in theaters in 2013. Her essays and articles have most recently appeared in Salon, LitHub, The Rumpus, Brevity, The Washington Post, and Narratively Speaking. She has taught writing at various universities and creative institutions, and currently offers private mentoring and editing services. Schwartz holds an M.F.A. in Writing and is currently writing her fourth book, a novel. Visit her online at www.leslieschwartz.com.

 

Instructor Events

Why is Writing so Hard?—An Instruction Manual for Your First Novel

Weeklong July 12 to July 17 2020
Instructor(s): 
Leslie Schwartz

What is theme? How do I structure a novel? Why can’t I discover and write exciting characters? What’s the difference between writing scene versus exposition, and how do I do it? If you have asked any of these questions of yourself while staring at the blank page, this is the right course for you. Geared toward beginning and intermediate fiction writers, this class will provide fun, engaging writing exercises, fascinating handouts, lively discussion and a safe and supportive critique workshop.

Fiction Craft Primer

Weekend July 18 to July 19 2020
Instructor(s): 
Leslie Schwartz

Nathanial Hawthorne said, “Easy reading is damn hard writing.” This engaging and fast-paced workshop will ease that pain and simplify the elements of craft that go into writing fiction. Short story writers and novelists are both welcome at any stage of writing. All genres welcome, too. The class will provide you with how-to instructions on the basic principles of craft that are necessary for writing “readable” fiction with as little pain as possible. Students will benefit from lively and engaging in-class writing assignments designed to hone skills, and discussion on craft.