My approach to teaching writing is different!
My emphasis is on self-expression, imagination, courage, compassion, and FUN! We'll focus on the depth, guts, truth and beauty, or in other words, the heart of every story.
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In order to teach from a place of care and compassion, I've reflected deeply on what that means. I want to challenge, motivate, empower and inspire you!
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I strive to bring what author Cheryl Strayed describes as unconditional positive regard to each session.
My goal is to bring out the best in every writer and help you realize your vision.
This means:
You're the author and I'm a guide.
No making assumptions: I'll ask questions!
And I use methods to limit bias.
Sensitivity experienced and trauma informed. BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and adoptee writers warmly welcomed.
TEACHING TESTIMONIALS
"Thank you so much for such an inspiring, and for me, calming and affirming webinar."
John Degen, Executive Director, The Writers' Union of Canada, 2021
"I’ve taken many different classes or conferences or seminars throughout my time as a writer and this is one of the most well organized and focused classes I’ve taken."
Eric Putzer, 2020
"Thanks for a terrific webinar. You gave me some exciting (and practical) ideas for getting out of what feels like a mild creative slump. Eager to get started!"
Frances Peck, 2021 (via Twitter)
"I want to express my gratitude for all your encouragement and empowerment throughout the course. You were very supportive of each person's ideas and gave guidance in such a compassionate yet professional way."
Melanie Catleugh, 2020
"Suzanne, your feedback has been incredibly helpful. It has been nice to finally put myself out there and show tiny little pieces of writing to someone else. You've given me the motivation to keep going"
Carolyn Skinner, 2020
"This is the second course I have taken with Suzanne. She is empowering, encouraging and positive. She creates an enjoyable environment while being professional and focused."
UofT student (course evaluation), 2020
"Suzanne had a really unique way of presenting the material that gave me new insights, even on topics I have learned about before. Layering in more depth of understanding about the practices of writing are very valuable to me in these courses, and a lot of that comes from seeing how different writers work. Suzanne provided great information on these elements."
UofT student (course evaluation, 2020)
"I found the learnings have really given my project a boost! Not only that, but I'm more confident with what steps I need to take once I've gotten the writing to level it needs to be. Thank you to Suzanne for sharing your enthusiasm, valuable direction, and insight into both writing technique and industry practices.This was a worthwhile investment of my time and money."
UofT student (course evaluation), 2020
"This course was excellent, and the instructor even better! Suzanne was engaged, supportive, informative, just an amazing prof! I gained valuable insight regarding the novel writing process, and am excited to continue on my writing journey!"
UofT student (course evaluation), 2020
"I couldn't ask for a better instructor. I enjoyed each module and I appreciated all of the feedback that I received with each assignment. It was such a positive experience and I am very appreciative of the time, knowledge and guidance that Suzanne provided."
UofT student (course evaluation), 2020
I'm developing new online courses and writing classes!
Help me help you!
Here's what I developed and taught in the past:
Writing the Novel: Introduction
If you want to write a novel, and have no idea how to start or complete a first draft, this course is for you. You’ll learn the story elements of a novel. Then you’ll plan your own book-in-progress and practice writing parts of the story in your own style. We’ll cover effective novel writing techniques and practical advice for getting a draft done. With step-by-step guidance, by the end of the course you’ll have the opening of your novel, and a personal plan to keep going. Via the University of Toronto.
Writing the Novel II
This course continues from the introduction, with tips and techniques on how to avoid a messy middle and how to end your novel. This is also a course geared for feedback so you can get valuable insights and notes on what you've been working on. Via the University of Toronto.
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