Been wondering what master classes you can choose from? Wonder no longer! Our master classes have now been posted. Check out our master class page (http://www.siwc.ca/schedule/2011/thursday) for details.

This is not the first time our plans for SiWC have made me wish I could be in more than one place at the same time, and I'm sure it won't be the last. I think you'll feel the same way when you check out the nine amazing options. Last year's three-time-slot schedule for master classes was hugely popular with many of you, so we're bringing it back. You can take up to three master classes this year, with classes available at 9:30am, 1:30pm, and 5:30pm.

And we haven't forgotten about our beginners. Just starting to dip your toes in the writing pond? One of our three-hour intensives this year is especially for you. Check it out!

More soon!

(PS - Eagerly awaiting registration? We'll have updated registration information for you in the next day or so when we know for sure what day all systems will be go. Stay tuned!)

Have you been spotting hints about our Saturday Night Owl event at various places SiWC board members and I pop up around the web? We’re being pretty subtle, I must admit, but keep watching. I think I might just offer a prize to the first person who puts the clues together and solves the mystery. Yes, I think I will. Keep watching and see if you can figure it out before I tell you one of these days… if you think you have it, email me at kathychung at siwc dot ca. I'll post the winning entry - if there is one - here on the blog.

In conference news, we’ve added a title for Jack Whyte’s previously “TBD” master class. If you’ve been waiting to see what he was going to teach before you registered, now’s your chance. In “Le Mot Just”, he’ll delve into the subtle but important idea of rhythm and flow in your use of language. Word choice isn’t just about accuracy, but about the feel and sound of your prose, and that’s a huge part of what creates that unique voice agents and publishers are always on the lookout for. Come explore how to make your prose sing exactly the sort of song you want it to. This class is limited to 20 participants. Space remains, but don’t wait too long!

Another good news story to share! Attendee and former writing contest winner Stasia Kehoe sent us this: “Hi there. Just thought it might be fun to let you know that my book, AUDITION, which won the SIWC Writing for Young People prize as a short story in 2008, will be published as a verse novel by Viking in Spring 2012.” Congratulations, Stasia! We love hearing good news stories from our attendees, so keep them coming.

I promised you big news, and I wasn't just talking about the June 1 registration date. (You have marked your calendar, haven't you? Go do it now if you haven't; I'll be here when you get back.)

I am THRILLED to bring you our exciting new master class schedule. By very popular demand, we've expanded our offerings. This year, for the first time ever, we have three time slots and EIGHT master classes to choose from on Thursday. Me, I'm trying to figure out how to be in several places at once so I can attend all of them. Unless you have the secret to that useful skill, you'll have to choose, but you can register for up to three classes, one in each time slot, so why not make a day of it?

Check out the details on the Master Class page, under Conference on the menu at the left. I'm sure you'll find one or two or even three classes to suit you. Our presenters are an incredible bunch, all truly wonderful teachers whose classes we are very proud to offer.

 As of less than five minutes ago, we are now live with the list of five Master Classes for this fall. Registration is on track to be open at noon. Keep an eye out here for the latest info!

~kc