Join us for this five-week online writing workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Tuesday, September 9 – Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Each Tuesday, 6:00pm EDT – see schedule
Led by Eric Bell
Limited to 12 participants
Do you want to write a book for young people? This encouraging workshop will cover:
• differentiation between age categories, from picture books to books for young adults
• craft tips such as building a three-act structure and developing characters
• misconceptions about children’s publishing
• the difference between traditional and self-publishing
• how to see the world through a child’s eyes
We’ll read and discuss excerpts from impactful children’s books, both classic and current, and analyze why they work so well. Weekly generative prompts will inspire you whether you’re just beginning your kidlit adventure, or you’re already working on a piece and want to hone it further. Bring your desire to write for children and/or young adults, an open mind and a childlike sense of adventure!
“Eric was amazing and knowledgeable—great choice for an instructor! I learned so much from the information he shared and from participating in the writing prompts. I even learned from listening to the writing prompt results of my fellow classmates. I enjoyed the weekly YA and middle school readings. Eric exposed us to a wide variety of solid examples for us to aspire to.”
~ Julie, Michigan City, IN
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Eric Bell (he/him) is the author of Alan Cole is Not a Coward (Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins) and Alan Cole Doesn’t Dance (Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins), two middle grade novels about a gay seventh grade boy dealing with bullies, crushes, the power of art and coming out. The first book was nominated to the Rainbow Book List for LGBTQ Books for Children and Teens. The books have also been translated into multiple languages. Eric is also featured in the queer middle grade short story anthology This is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us (Knopf). Eric is a teacher of writing classes, a virtual workshop leader, a freelance editor and writing coach and an employee at a library. He lives and writes in Pennsylvania.
“The content was extremely well chosen and effective. The instructor’s facilitation of the class was respectful, challenging and geared toward experimenting with the genre.”
~ Adrienne, Plainfield, NJ
How It Works
Components
The major components of our five-week workshops typically include variations of the following elements: inspiring craft models, writing assignments, discussions and sharing. The organization and emphasis of these elements is dependent on the workshop leader’s vision. Their goal is to get you inspired and writing!
Schedule
The course will be held over Zoom for five Tuesdays at 6:00pm EDT:
- Tuesday, September 9
- Tuesday, September 16
- Tuesday, September 23
- Tuesday, September 30
- Tuesday, October 7
The duration of these weekly meetings is dependent on the number of participants registered. If up to 7 participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:00-7:30pm. If 8+ participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:00-8:00pm.
Each week’s materials will be made available beforehand so you have a chance to review them ahead of time.
You will receive further details about each deadline and assignment once you enroll in the course.
technical requirements
Materials for the course will be shared using a free online platform called Canvas. You will need a computer or tablet and internet access in order to use Canvas. You will also need access to word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word).
To fully participate in the weekly Zoom sessions, you will need access to a webcam and microphone. Those built in to a laptop, tablet or smart phone will do.
Pricing + Registration
Tuition — SLIDING SCALE: $350-$450
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $350 and $450. If you’re able to pay at the higher end of the scale, you’ll help Murphy Writing offer affordable programming and scholarships for writers.
Tuition INCLUDEs
- A curated selection of readings, craft notes and prompts to inspire you each week
- Access to a private space for sharing your writing with your workshop leader and fellow participants
- Five dedicated Zoom calls with your workshop leader and fellow participants
If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, email us at murphywriting@stockton.edu.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct
- Full fee due upon registration
Cancellation Policy
- By September 1 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs
- After September 1 — No refund or credit
“Murphy Writing has always energized me and improved my writing skills. Thanks to everyone.”
~ Rodney, Yardville, NJ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their courses to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
I’ve taken dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Our faculty challenges experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, they will compel you to go deeper, take more risks and experiment with form and content. We know that experienced writers benefit from our programs based on the fact that hundreds of “re-PETERs” have attended three or more of our writing getaways.
I’ve never taken an online workshop before. Do I need special equipment?
No. If you’re reading this website, you probably have everything you need to take this course. You can participate using a laptop or desktop computer, or even a tablet or smart phone.
meet our community
View our full collection of writing getaway photos.
Questions?
Email murphywriting@stockton.edu.
Write with us.
