The Writing Shorter Retreat: Why (and How) Less Can Be More

In today’s evolving publishing world, there is growing interest in shorter books. But how do writers keep a story complete, compelling, and emotionally rich while making it more concise? And in what ways can learning to write short strengthen your craft overall?

Join bestselling authors Hena Khan, Christina Soontornvat, Minh Lê, and Ellen Oh for an in-person retreat devoted to stories that move quickly and leave a lasting impact. This award-winning faculty will explore pacing, plot, concept development, visual storytelling, and more, offering practical insight you can apply right away. You’ll also have generous time to experiment with their ideas as you write and focus on your own projects.

This retreat is designed for writers at any stage of their creative journey who want to learn more about shorter novels, graphic novels, novels in verse, chapter books, and picture books.

No submission is required.

Lodging and meals are included.

The retreat begins at 5:30pm Eastern on Sunday, August 9, 2026, and concludes after lunch on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Discover how writing short may be exactly what your story needs. Learn from celebrated authors Hena Khan, Christina Soontornvat, Minh Lê, and Ellen Oh as they share the what, why, and how behind crafting shorter narratives. Through craft-centered sessions on pacing, plot, revision, and concept development, you’ll gain tools to shape a concise story without losing your voice.

Whether you are revising an existing manuscript or beginning something new, this retreat offers inspiration, community, and support. There will also be plenty of time to write, wander, and retreat.

This retreat is a strong fit if you are working on, or revising, a book with a short, impactful narrative.

It is also ideal if you want to learn more about plot and pacing from award-winning and celebrated authors.

And if you’re looking for a retreat that gives you space to write, you’ll find that here too. Alongside presentations, there will be ample time set aside for independent writing and progress on your own projects.

All in-person Boyds Mills workshops and retreats, including this one, take place at the Retreat Center: Boyds Mills. The site was the home of the original founders of Highlights for Children, Garry and Caroline Myers, and is located in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania on the traditional lands of the Lenape Nation.

All-inclusive registration covers workshop tuition, lodging, meals, beverages, and snacks. Additional logistical details will be shared after registration.