All Write - Virginia Tech to host creative writing camp in June

BLACKSBURG, Va., May 18, 2005 – Virginia Tech’s department of English will hold a week-long writing camp for youth this summer. Targeted for ages 8-18, All Write will be held from June 20-24. Participants can opt to focus on poetry, fiction, or non-fiction writing.

Nikki Giovanni, Virginia Tech’s internationally known poet, will get things started with a keynote address. The campers will conclude with a pizza party and a chance to share their writing through public readings. An anthology of all of the works will be posted online so everyone will have access to it. “The ultimate goal is to give the kids the absolute best experience they have ever had at a summer camp,” said Aileen Murphy, assistant director of Creating Writing.

Participants will be divided into three different age groups: 8-11, 12-14, and 16-18. The classes will be taught exclusively by Virginia Tech faculty. "This camp will provide the opportunity to record and preserve feelings and opinions," Murphy said. "Topics could range from bicycles to boyfriends, the beach or the moon – or anything in between.”

Campers will examine the elements, techniques, and craft of poetry — sound, rhythm, line-breaks, density, figurative language, and various forms while the techniques of fiction writing will explore character development, setting, voice, dialogue, conflict, and theme. In non-fiction, campers can examine their own experiences including memories, family, and the natural world.

The week-long, morning, creative writing camp is $185 and includes professional instruction, materials, daily workshops, and opening and closing featured sessions. Transportation is not provided. Space is limited, so register early. Limited scholarship opportunities are available for qualifying students. For details please contact Jane Todd at (540) 231-2014 or register on-line.