Class Description

Neuroscience reveals that just 20 minutes of writing (an in particular, writing stories) every day can ward of brain aging. It also boosts focus and sharpens the memory. These benefits cascade across the entire body with writing linked to siphoning away stress and axing anxiety. But how are stories crafted? Where does a story begin? What if the story has no end? How can writing become a daily habit in today's Mach speed, morbidly multitasking lifestyles? Whether you're a hesitant newcomer to the world of writing or a seasoned procrastinator with countless half-written novels to your name, this class is for you! Participants will meet for two consecutive Tuesdays--January 20th and 27th--from 12-1:30pm. (Tell your boss you're taking a luxurious lunch break!) Good idea to bring a notebook and pen or pencil. Laptops or tablets will also suffice. Train with an award-winning author of over 30 books, many magazine articles, radio scripts, and more. Expect a lively class experience with many dynamic writing games, experiments, and the odd sideroad. Acquire the tools and know-how that pave the way for your brain and body to live long when you write now. Instructor Bio: Jenny Mason is a longtime Durango resident. In addition to publishing the best in children's nonfiction books for publishers including Scholastic, Inc. and Big Foot Books, she is a trusted copywriter for many local nonprofits and businesses. She received her M.F.A. in writing from the Vermont College of Fine Arts, mastering the craft with lauded authors like Tom Birdseye, Rita Garcia-Williams, and the late Bonnie Christiansen. Jenny holds an M.Phil in popular literature from Trinity College Dublin. She's a 3rd-degree black belt in Aikido who loves teaching beginners and has been known to instruct West Coast Swing lessons as well.