Media Releases >  Media Releases Archive  > SFU launches unique online manuscript-completion program

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Contact:
Susan Jamieson-McLarnon, 604.291.5151

Simon Fraser University's Writing and Publishing Program is launching a new online manuscript-completion program, Manuscript@SFU, in September 2005. This is the first program of its kind in North America.

Manuscript@SFU recognizes that skillful help is hard to find when revising a manuscript, whether you are an emerging writer or a published author. At this make-it-or-break-it stage, the guidance and support of an established author can make all the difference. “Completing a manuscript is like building a house -- it's far more complex and takes twice as long as you imagined,” said Manuscript@SFU director Betsy Warland. “In our program, a Manuscript@SFU mentor will go the distance with you.”

Mentors Anita Rau Badami (novel), Bill Richardson (fiction, humour, and young adult fiction), Susan Crean (non-fiction) and Roo Borson (poetry and lyric prose) will consult with participants about their writing at two-week intervals throughout the 10-month program. Mentors will lead online writing workshops and discussions about craft. Each mentor will select four writers with whom to work.

As part of the program, author Nancy Lee will teach a manuscript-critique course online, and editor Mary Schendlinger will teach an online course on getting published.

The program runs September 12, 2005 to June 30, 2006. Applications deadline is June 15. Applications should include: a manuscript, a CV, and a statement. For more information, contact Betsy Warland at bwarland@sfu.ca.

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