After exploring our lives and memories through prompts and exercises, we're delighted to announce a sequel online session on the journey of memoir writing. This November we'll be welcoming back VAWAA guest artist and award-winning playwright and author Catherine Ann Jones. New participants are welcome too. 

In the four 90 minute interactive sessions over the course of one weekend, we aim to refine and structure our written events and stories. This session is perfect if you have some written drafts and are looking for guidance on next steps. 

On Saturday January 21st and Sunday January 22nd we will be starting at 12PM EST with the first 90 minute session, and reconvening for the second half at 4PM EST.  

There will be plenty of time to share, get feedback and meet other participants from around the world.

If you are not in EST time zone, be sure to convert the time. For example, If you are in PST the sessions will begin at 9AM.


What to expect

  • How to structure chapters and titles.
  • Finding the theme that connects the story.
  • Refining the story: what doesn’t fit, and what could be added.
  • Ethics: what are the best practices?
  • Practical tips and exercises.


What you'll need

A notepad and pen/pencil.


How to join

We'll be hosting this VAWAA Online on Zoom. We'll send the link and details to join via email 1 day and again 1 hour before it begins.



About Catherine

Catherine Ann Jones is an award-winning author (7 books), playwright (11 produced) & screenwriter whose films include Unlikely Angel, The Christmas Wife,and the popular series, Touched by an Angel. A Fulbright Scholar to India studying shamanism, author of The Way of Story and Heal Your Self with Writing. Over 20 years teaching graduate school and writing workshops both here (Esalen, Omega) and abroad. Over 56,000 subscribers to her six online courses. www.wayofstory.com


Reviews

“Catherine Ann Jones is a genius at using a wide range of techniques to help you unlock emotional touchstones. After experiencing workshops with such past luminaries as Joseph Campbell and Gregory Bateson, I can honestly say that Catherine’s workshop was the most enjoyable I've ever attended." 

"It was a very meaningful, generative, and authentic experience. The workshop not only re-ignited my creative spark, but it also put me on a path for inner growth."  

"Thank you, Catherine, for the grounded, authentic guidance. It was what I needed to open myheart and propel forward towards a more fulfilling life. I felt embraced, understood, and heard."

"Today was the fourth of Catherine's workshops I have attended. Her information, stories, and writing exercises uncover untapped resources and new perspectives on the content and process of writing. This course also sparked renewed courage, energy, and determination to complete my memoir. Thank you, Catherine!" - Wendy

"I was amazed at how much I learned about writing, about myself and how to present. The openness of Catherine and her easy style made me feel comfortable and willing to share and learn. The other participants in the class were also inspiring - each in their own personal way. Kudos and thank you!" - Ken

"I’m a amazed that over zoom such an intimate experience can be had. Loved this writing/creative workshop with Catherine." - Elizabeth

"This was a fantastic writing workshop - whether you've published books or you're dipping your toe into writing, everyone has something to gain from Catherine's tips, exercises, and prompts. I would absolutely take another course from Catherine. 30 people in the course was a great amount, allowing for discussion and light workshopping. Fantastic offering, VAWAA!" - Meg

"This was my third memoir workshop with Catherine, and is was just as fantastic as expected - each time I get to chisel away at the big block of Unknown, and find my nuggets of enlightenment!" - Meryl

"Catherine Ann Jones is a brilliant writer and a generous teacher. The knowledge and compassion she shares with us, her students, is life-changing. If I could take her class every day I would. I feel nurtured, safe and valued in her presence." - Alice


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Image: Photo by Zakaria Ahada on Unsplash