Think Build-A-Bear Workshop meets storytelling. That means three hours of creativity without any of the struggle. No agonizing over “the perfect structure,” no overwhelming theory. Just playful assembly that leads to compelling stories across all mediums—from the page to the screen to the stage.
Sponsored by Pennwriters
Saturday, September 27th
2 to 5pm, ET
November 2025: The Things They Carry
Sponsored by PennWriters - Full Course
Explore how characters' interactions with objects can deepen your story. Learn to use props and "bits of business" to enhance characterization, add subtext, and propel your plot forward. Suitable for fiction writers of all levels and genres.
Format: Weekly on-demand lectures, worksheets, and live online workshop/feedback sessions with fellow writers
Duration: 4 weeks
When: Tuesdays 7-9pm, ET (November 4-25)
Price: $75 members, $100 non-members
Join Pennwriters today for just $60 to access this workshop plus all member benefits!
Already a member? Register for this free 3-hour workshop today.
We’ll construct compelling plots piece by piece through quick, instinctive choices. Whether you’re crafting a short story, developing a novel, plotting a screenplay, or structuring a stage play, this workshop will give you the universal framework every narrative needs.
Building on the success of the June 28th Build-A-Character Workshop, the Build-A-Plot Workshop will use rapid-fire creative exercises and gut-level storytelling instincts to transform plot development from intimidating task to an enjoyable creative experience that works for writers in any format.
5 Key Workshop Goals:
1. Master the Story Spine Framework – Construct complete story backbone using “Once upon a time… until finally…” structure that supports any genre.
2. Build Escalating Conflict Through “The Trouble Ladder” – Create 5-7 increasingly compelling obstacles that force character growth and maintain reader engagement.
3. Craft Irresistible Story Questions – Plant driving questions that make readers unable to put your story down using the “curiosity gap” technique.
4. Design Meaningful Stakes – Move beyond surface consequences to create emotional resonance by connecting external plot to internal character needs.
5. Create Surprising Yet Inevitable Plot Points – Master revelations that shock readers while feeling completely logical, using the “plant and pay off” system.
Workshop Structure
Hour 1: Story Foundation – Story spine construction, trouble ladder mapping, stakes assessment
Hour 2: Momentum Engine – Curiosity gaps, character-plot integration, midpoint mastery
Hour 3: Payoff Assembly – Plant & payoff setup, climax construction, resolution crafting
Your Takeaway: The Plot Assembly Sheet
One-page blueprint containing complete story spine, central question, trouble ladder, stakes, key plot points, and opening hook—everything needed to start writing immediately.
Target Audience
Fiction writers, screenwriters, playwrights, and storytellers of all experience levels. Perfect for anyone with characters who need compelling plots, writers struggling with story structure, or creators wanting narratives that captivate audiences across any medium.
Why This Workshop Works
Proven methodology transforms intimidating plot development into enjoyable creative experience. Writers leave with usable story framework, practical tools, and excitement to write stories readers can’t put down.
Sponsored by Pennwriters
Saturday, September 27th
2 to 5pm, ET
Join Pennwriters today for just $60 to access this workshop plus all member benefits!
Already a member? Register for this free 3-hour workshop today.
November 2025: The Things They Carry
Sponsored by PennWriters - Full Course
Explore how characters' interactions with objects can deepen your story. Learn to use props and "bits of business" to enhance characterization, add subtext, and propel your plot forward. Suitable for fiction writers of all levels and genres.
Format: Weekly on-demand lectures, worksheets, and live online workshop/feedback sessions with fellow writers
Duration: 4 weeks
When: Tuesdays 7-9pm, ET (November 4-25)
Price: $75 members, $100 non-members