Whether you're crafting a short story, developing a novel, plotting a screenplay, or structuring a stage play, this workshop provides the universal framework every narrative needs.
No agonizing over "the perfect structure," no overwhelming theory. Just playful assembly that leads to compelling stories across all mediums—from the page to the screen to the stage. Following the successful approach from my June 28th Build-A-Character workshop, Build-A-Plot uses rapid-fire creative exercises and gut-level storytelling instincts to transform plot development from intimidating task to enjoyable creative experience that works for writers in any format.
5 Key Workshop Goals:
- Master the Story Spine Framework - Construct complete story backbone using "Once upon a time... until finally..." structure that supports any genre.
- Build Escalating Conflict Through "The Trouble Ladder" - Create 5-7 increasingly compelling obstacles that force character growth and maintain reader engagement.
- Craft Irresistible Story Questions - Plant driving questions that make readers unable to put your story down using the "curiosity gap" technique.
- Design Meaningful Stakes - Move beyond surface consequences to create emotional resonance by connecting external plot to internal character needs.
- Create Surprising Yet Inevitable Plot Points - Master revelations that shock readers while feeling completely logical, using the "plant and pay off" system.
Workshop Structure
Hour 1: Story Foundation - Story spine construction, trouble ladder mapping, stakes assessment
Hour 2: Momentum Engine - Curiosity gaps, character-plot integration, midpoint mastery
Hour 3: Payoff Assembly - Plant & payoff setup, climax construction, resolution crafting
Target Audience
Fiction writers, screenwriters, playwrights, and storytellers of all experience levels. Perfect for anyone with characters who need compelling plots, writers struggling with story structure, or creators wanting narratives that captivate audiences across any medium.
Proven methodology transforms intimidating plot development into enjoyable creative experience. Writers leave with usable story framework, practical tools, and excitement to write stories readers can't put down.
Register Here
October's Seminar: Finding Your Readers – Marketing and Publicity for your Writing
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM
Instructor: Joe Marich
When you type, "The End," your job as a writer is just beginning, not ending.
This seminar covers 10 things you should think about BEFORE you even begin your outline (or if you are already in the writing process, to stop and think of these things before continuing). Writers need to think of themselves as small business owners.
Other Highlights:
- What book PR is and what you can expect from a PR launch.
- The importance of jacket art and how to tell if your jacket art will be effective in grabbing potential buyers’ attention.
- How to create an effective "elevator pitch" about your book. In essence, how to answer, "So, what’s your book about?"
- The importance of "enticing, rather than "explaining," when discussing your book.
- How and why to make sure your first 30-50 pages are exceptionally interesting – that’s about how many pages potential reviewers will give your book before deciding whether to review it or not.
- Story structure, the inciting incident, character, sense of place/time, dialogue, excessive exposition, etc., which is what book reviewers are going to be hyper-critical about.
Register Here
Any member who would like more information should email queries to D. J. Stevenson at
pennwriterscritiquepartners@gmail.com.