Can you share an example of how your experience shapes the way you teach?
When it comes to publishing, we have experience on both sides of the fence—as writers and as small-press publishers. And we’ve also published in many ways ourselves, from small and university presses to Big Five to self-publishing. We’re always glad to share what we’ve learned to help writers find their way on their own publishing journeys.
What is your philosophy towards teaching literature or writing? How do you describe your teaching style?
Our style is interactive, and we encourage lots of questions—this is what we’re here for! We also find that whenever we teach, we learn so much from our fellow writers.
What do you believe is the key to fostering a creative and inclusive classroom environment? Can you share an example of a teaching moment that was particularly rewarding for you?
What’s always rewarding for us is to see students succeed. As one example, in our Writing for Animals program, we offer eight weeks of lessons, craft, writing exercises, readings, and other resources for writing about animals. We stay in touch with our “alumni” via a quarterly email, and many of them have gone on to publish in magazines and journals, and to publish books as well. We celebrate these accomplishments right along with them and among the community that has come out of this program.
What can people expect if they decide to participate in your class?
Writers in Paths to Publishing can expect to learn about how the publishing world works, from the perspective of both publishers and published authors. We’ll offer an overview of how the industry works and will answer any and all questions we can, from querying to contracts. These days, the reality of the publishing industry can be sobering — it is competitive and constantly changing. Every writer has a unique path, and the more you know, the better prepared you are to choose the best path for your own work.
Who are you trying to connect with by teaching this class?
We hope to connect with writers who want to publish their work, at whatever stage they’re at currently. Whether you’re polishing a final draft of just starting your novel, it’s never too early to learn about the industry. The more you know, the better able you’ll be to not only find the right fit but to avoid the scams and pitfalls that are all too common for writers.
Could you give a brief overview of what a typical class with you might look like?
We like to hear from writers at the beginning of a class so we can meet them where they are. Then we proceed with a combination of hands-on tips, advice, handouts with important resources, discussion, and lots of Q&A.
What are the primary learning outcomes you aim for?
In Paths to Publishing, we aim for writers to gain a clear understanding of the options available and what’s best for them, depending on their project, their goals, their budget, and their personality style. For some writers, self-publishing is the best option; others may be better off with a team of publishing professionals behind them. Our goal is for writers in all genres, from poetry to suspense novels, will come away with a good understanding of how to approach the complex and often mysterious publishing world.
What kind of support or resources do you provide your students?
We provide handouts with helpful resources and also invite students to stay in touch with whatever questions they have. We’ve had students reach out long after a workshop has ended to ask us questions about contracts, for example. We are always happy to help.
What do you love most about teaching?
We love helping writers avoid the same mistakes we’ve made! While mistakes are inevitable and can be great learning moments, it’s much easier to learn from others’ mistakes … and to be able to ask questions that pertain specifically to your own work. We hope to make the publishing journey a bit smoother for anyone who takes our class.
What advice would you give someone who is hesitant about taking a literature or writing course (with you or anyone!)? Can you share a piece of advice that has helped you as a writer or literature professional? How can a student make the most of their time in your course?
Come with your questions! No question is too small, and no question is unimportant. We may not have all the answers, but we’ll able to find it for you or at least point you in the right direction.
Upcoming classes you might enjoy
Nap-a-thon: a fundraiser for people who are tired. Which, statistically, is everyone.
Nap Ambassador sign ups close Sept 30.
Napping and fundraising happens Oct 1-31.
Come share a meal with other writers and talk shop—craft, process, money, motivation, publishing, rejection, weird writing habits, and whatever’s currently living rent-free in your brain.
Friday, Sept 18 | Noon–1:30 pm
Ages 18+
Get your novel out of your head and onto the page in this 6-month novel-writing cohort with Daryll Lynne Evans.
Begins October 5 | Ages 18+
A 12-week, 6-session critique class for writers ready to move their work forward—with kind, constructive feedback and a welcoming crew of fellow creatives.
Every other Tuesday. Fall Memoir/Creative Nonfiction cohort starts Oct 6, 2026 | Age 16+
A 4-week writing accountability and co-working group to help you make real, steady progress on your writing.
Wednesdays 3-4:30 pm | In person or online | Next cohort starts Oct 7, facilitated by Daryll Lynne Evans | Age 16+
Share your words in sweet community at our monthly open mic emceed by spoken word poet Jorah LaFleur.
Second Thursdays, September through June | Age 14+