Writers' Workshop Structure and Schedule

Workshop Structure

The Workshop is built on a traditional model of dialogue and learning between mentor and student. The mentor is an accomplished writer/author who provides the guidance, lessons and inspiration to the student. The student is a beginning or experienced writer who would benefit from working with the instructor.

The first mentors selected for the workshop is renowned Filipino American fiction writer Peter Bacho, author of Cebu, The Man in a Dark Blue Suit, Entry's and the winner of many awards, including the American Book Award, the Murray Morgan Prize and a Washington Governor's Writers Award. In January of 2004, he was appointed the Distinguished Northwest Writers in Residence at Seattle University. His latest work is Leaving Yesler, a young adult novel soon to be published by Pleasure Boat Studio of New York.

Mr. Bacho will be assisted by mentors from the previous workshops.

The class is limited to 12-15 participants, to allow for focused attention and significant guidance from the established authors, as well as collaborative peer review from all the participants. In-class writing exercises and talks by Mr. Bacho during the two days will take place. The workshop (application and reservation) fee of $75.00 per individual or parent and child. This is a residential program. Children accompanied by a parent are given preference.

June 15, 2009

July 3, 2009, Friday (morning to noon arrivals)/ Orientation and get together

  • Orientation
  • Dinner
  • Literary Salon featuring guest authors Shirley Lim (UCSB), Russell Leong (UCLA), Irene Soriano (UCLA), Peter Bacho (Seattle)

July 4, 2009, Saturday

  • Peter Bacho introduces his fiction and writing techniques
  • Lunch
  • Afternoon Workshop
  • Dinner

July 5, 2009, Sunday

  • Critiques of Writing with Peter Bacho
  • Lunch
  • Afternoon Workshop

July 6, 2009, TBA



Accommodations

Accommodations for the NVM Gonzalez Writer’s Workshop is available through UCSB’s Housing & Residential Services. We are able to provide the most affordable rate and scenic location in Santa Barbara!

Located on the ocean bluffs of Santa Barbara, UCSB, residential buildings with accommodations for approximately 45 persons each in single and double occupancy rooms have been reserved. Each building includes lobby area, laundry/vending room, lounge with view terrace, study room, and kitchenettes. Several double and single occupancy rooms meet ADA requirements.

Meals are provided through UCSB’s award winning residential dining program. Nutritionally balanced meals meet a myriad of dietary needs including menus designed for vegans, vegetarians and those who want a low fat diet. Fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and a variety of grains, nuts, legumes and juice with no sugar added are always available. Locally grown and organic foods are integrated throughout the menu as part of the overall campus sustainability effort.

Three-night accommodation from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5 is highly encouraged for this residential program. The rate for double occupancy is $175.00 per person and for single occupancy is $215.00 . This includes meals, parking and linen service during your stay. Non-residential fee is $125.00

TRAVELING TO SANTA BARBARA

The Santa Barbara Airport offers direct service to and from: • Los Angeles • San Jose • San Francisco • Denver • Phoenix • Las Vegas

Many people traveling by air will initially land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 2 driving hours away from Santa Barbara. From there, your travel options are to fly to Santa Barbara, to travel to Santa Barbara via the Santa Barbara Airbus or rent a car and drive to Santa Barbara.

UCSB ACCOMMODATIONS CONTACT:

To secure your room or assistance with traveling to workshop site at the University of California, Santa Barbara, please contact Joe Mazares at (805) 893-3528 or email joseph.mazares@sa.ucsb.edu