Whole Novel Workshop: An In-Person Retreat for Novelists (August)

This in-person 6-day/5-night workshop and retreat includes a full novel critique, offering writers a rare chance to have an entire draft of a novel read by faculty, with detailed written feedback and two private consultations.

Designed specifically for authors writing for children and teens, this intensive program provides focused, individualized attention in an intimate setting. The goal is meaningful progress as you prepare your manuscript for submission.

The retreat begins with dinner at 5:30pm Eastern on Saturday, August 15, and concludes after lunch on Thursday, August 20. Lodging and meals are included, and there is also ample time built in to relax, retreat, and continue working on revisions.

The full cost is $2,799 and includes the retreat, pre-retreat Zooms, the feedback letter, 1:1 consultations, lectures, and writing exercises.

Participants consistently praise the warmth and generosity of the faculty, noting the value of small-group and one-on-one conversations, as well as the inspiring and helpful guidance offered throughout the experience.

Why This Workshop?

This workshop gives writers the opportunity to have a full draft of a novel, up to 85,000 words, carefully read with written feedback and two private consultations, all within an inspiring retreat setting at the Boyds Mills retreat center.

You will be surrounded by fellow authors who are actively engaged in the creative process, along with experienced readers and supportive peers. Whether you are working toward your first publication or developing your next manuscript, this program can help you see your work with fresh perspective.

You will also take part in “Brain Trust” peer groups: small, carefully selected cohorts of up to 8 participants, each guided by a facilitator. These groups are designed so fellow writers can come prepared with familiarity with your short submission and offer thoughtful new perspectives as you work through revision challenges.

In all, the experience includes:

• An editorial letter with written insights and questions about your drafted novel, up to 85,000 words, to help you prioritize goals.
• At least two private consultations with your reader to discuss feedback, revisions, and next steps.
• Time to stretch creatively through presentations and prompts.
• Small-group discussions and open space to process revision ideas.
• Opportunities to connect with fellow writers.

What Level of Feedback Can I Expect?

You will be paired with a faculty reader who will provide thoughtful insights and questions about your draft and help you focus your revision priorities. Written feedback will be delivered by August 12, followed by two private consultations: one via Zoom before the retreat and one during the retreat.

Your “brain trust” group will be created with your needs in mind and will include no more than 8 fellow writers. A caring facilitator will guide the conversation and help maintain a safe, supportive atmosphere centered on your goals.

Additional informal feedback will be available throughout the workshop during discussions and open sharing in free creative time.

What Level of Commitment Is Expected?

As an in-person event at the retreat center, this experience invites you to step away from daily routines and fully enter the retreat environment. Boyds Mills is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive space.

How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?

The mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who inform, educate, and inspire them to become their best selves. This workshop supports that mission by helping you move your novel toward publication in a way that remains true to your voice and story.

Can I Connect with Other Participants Before the Retreat?

Yes. You will receive access to a virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow creatives and explore Boyds Mills resources, including Community Standards, before the event.

Meet the Faculty

Sarah Aronson, Jennifer Jacobson, Alicia D. Williams, Crystal Allen, Nancy Werlin, Rob Costello, Nora Shalaway Carpenter, Diana Ma