Bring Your Story World to Life

Many writers assume that world building is the domain of sci-fi/fantasy authors. But writers across all genres benefit from thinking about how the world of their story might differ from that of the reader. Neglecting world-building can lead to flat, one-dimensional writing, or scenes that don’t work. This presentation provides examples of excellent world building both within and beyond the sci-fi/fantasy umbrella across MG, YA, and adult age categories. Participants will also learn how to create more vivid and engaging worlds by considering the ways that voice, power dynamics, socio-economic factors, backstory, and culture contribute to the story world. Using these five pillars of world-building as a guide, this workshop will help writers at all levels both sharpen and deepen their world building to create a better reader experience. Whether a story is set on Mars, in Ancient Rome, or just down the street, this workshop will teach writers tips, tricks, and tools to level up world-building, and thereby create a more immersive and satisfying experience for your readers.