Reclaiming Family History Through Creative Fiction (DRAKE HALL)
OSHR 4074Ancestry research can lead us to exciting discoveries. Some of these findings can be interesting and make us proud to be an ancestor, but some may startle and even sadden us. This course will provide a step-by-step process for writing a family history incorporating real and fictional elements into the story. The process of re-writing can be healing and emotionally freeing. Students may decide to begin work on a short story, novella, or even a novel. Topics include ancestry research, storytelling (character, plot, style), forms of fiction (short story, novella, novel), routines, and habits for writing.
Ann Lowry, Ph.D., has taught writing for decades. Her debut novel, The Blue Trunk, was inspired by the discovery of a family heirloom—a travel trunk from Norway. Ann’s writings dive deeply into the complexities of relationships, conflict, and the human condition. In researching this book, she became intrigued about writing historical fiction and found the process of doing so both interesting and healing. Beyond fiction, she has made significant contributions to academic journals, authored insightful opinion pieces, and crafted content for various platforms, including Writer’s Digest, Women’s Writers/Women’s Fiction, and Girl Talk HQ. When not writing, Ann enjoys a range of activities, from swimming and golfing to baking cookies and bread. She treasures moments with her therapy dog, Loki, and cherishes time with her family. She is always eager to explore new adventures in life and storytelling. Ann lives in Timnath, Colorado.
Notes
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