“Throughlines like other forms of repetition (the rule of three, golden threads, and so on) exist for a greater purpose. Throughlines weave a story--and any other piece of writing--together and can create an emotional impact for readers. Whether used in fiction or nonfiction, throughlines can communicate theme, add to character development, create a mood, and more. In this session you’ll learn about the power of throughlines, see them in action in mentor texts, and explore the possibility of throughlines in your own writing. Along the way you may discover that a throughline can communicate the heart of your writing. Please have a drafted picture book, the first chapter of your novel, two or three poems, or another work-in-progress handy to use in writing activities during the session.

Rob Sanders is a teacher who writes and a writer who teaches. He is known for his funny and fierce fiction and nonfiction picture books and is recognized as one of the pioneers in the arena of LGBTQIA+ literary nonfiction picture books. Rob’s nonfiction books continue to break new ground, including the first picture books about the Pride Flag, the Stonewall Uprising, a transgender Civil War soldier, a gay presidential candidate, and the first gay marriage in America. His work also continues to introduce readers to heroes of the LGBTQIA+ community—from Harvey Milk to Gilbert Baker, from Cleve Jones to Bayard Rustin, and more. His fiction explores friendship, relationships, standing up for others, and being allies. Blood Brothers, his first middle grade novel, written in powerful, raw verse releases in July 2022. And Rob pays it forward. He serves as co-regional advisor for SCBWI Florida and is a frequent speaker, teacher, mentor, coach, and critiquer. Rob is represented by Rubin Pfeffer. Find more information about Rob and his books: https://www.robsanderswrites.com/

This workshop is on Zoom and registration is required. Please click here to register.

The video is available for on-demand viewing August 13 – October 10.

Sponsored by the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation.