Overview

A Two-Night Mini Online Course

Young adult readers love horror novels–they are safe spaces to explore humanity’s fears. For many queer and questioning readers, YA horror is a safe space for much more.

Join young adult authors Anna-Marie McLemore and Rob Costello for this short course for writers looking to create space in their horror and fantastical books for queer and questioning teens. This program will draw on a rainbow of examples and experiences, and is a great fit if you’re looking for a short course of two, 75-minute sessions with information, plus time to capture your own ideas and ask questions.

• Tuesday, June 11, 2024 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)
• Thursday, June 13, 2024 (7pm – 8:15pm Eastern)
• Webinar-style program with closed captioning available and limited interaction in the chat
• Recordings available until July 31, 2024

From the Faculty:

“Horror is the Worst-Case-Scenario genre. Scary books enable readers to safely project themselves into the most terrifying situations in order to imagine how they might survive them. When daily life itself feels like a struggle to survive, living vicariously through characters who have it even worse than you do can offer a kind of solace and escapism.”— Rob Costello

Feedback Expected

• No feedback included in the course. There will be limited interaction in the chat feature of the webinar-style program.

It’s a Great Fit If…

• You’re interested in horror, fantasy, and fantastical storytelling. This short course will offer thoughtful presentations to help you grow as a writer, with a special interest in LGBTQIA2S+ representation.
• You are currently writing genre fiction and are looking for inspiration. We’ll share examples, talk character, and leave time for your questions.
• LGBTQIA2S+ family members and allies will be joyfully welcomed!
• You’re looking for something short, sweet, and smart! This program is a starting point for your study, and a great fit if you’re looking for a short course of two, 75-minute sessions offering limited interaction with the community, but loads of information.

Tentative Agenda

At registration: You will receive a Zoom link to use each night of the course.

IF YOU CAN’T ATTEND LIVE:

If you are unable to attend either session for any reason, you’ll have access to the recordings (with closed captioning) through July 31, 2024.

Please note that if you register for the course after the start of the first session, you will not receive recordings immediately.  You’ll receive both recordings after the close of the last session, usually within 24 hours.

All Times are Eastern Time.  Click on the headings below to explore the agenda in more detail.

How It Impacts Kids

Teens explore the world, their fears, their identities, and their hopes through the pages of fiction. Young adult horror has the opportunity to validate and center teen readers like nothing else. Join Rob and Anna-Marie to learn how to make the most out of this powerful genre.

Testimonials from Our Community

“I loved working with Rob [Costello]! He was kind, generous, and thoughtful.”

“Anna-Marie McLemore is the best writing mentor I’ve ever had.”

“I knew I could not attend in person but I signed up because you offered the recording. Having that option was invaluable.”

“Keep the mini courses going for those of us that can’t attend at the Highlights Foundation Campus! It helps us stay in touch and keep our skills growing!!

Resources

• 10 Scary Books for Queer Teens to Feel Empowered Reading
• Guest Post from Ally Malinenko: MG Readers Want Horror
• How LGBTQIA+ Book Bans Impact Kids and Teens (We Need Diverse Books Blog; by Karis Rogerson)
• Guest Post from Nova Ren Suma on Writing About Fears

Looking for an In-Person Experience?

Check out the Rainbow Retreat: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers, October 31-November 3 at our Retreat Center.