Testimonials

"Laura Atkins is a superb editor! She not only has a knack for discovering the underlying flaws in a story, but is extremely helpful in creating plausible remedies to fix those flaws. She also is very detailed in her critiques and can discover minor but important mistakes that other editors miss. Her critiques are always performed in a constructive manner so her clients can not only fix errors but can also recognize the unique strengths of their own storytelling. I recommend Laura highly as an editor and will definitely use her services in my next writing project."
—Sandra Padmanabhan, Ph.D.

"Laura's feedback has been invaluable. Her comments are thoughtful and concise, and I have been able to move forward with my story with a renewed sense of excitement. She's a fantastic person to work with, with an amazing amount of enthusiasm for my project."
—Rachael Errington, Artist Insite website developer

"Since meeting Laura I've taken not only my novel more seriously, but my overall craft. She has the uncanny knack of picking up on the weak points of your text that you hoped no one would notice, as well as the faults you didn't. However, she's equally aware of your strengths and the strengths of your story. Laura's brought new dimensions to my work I wouldn't have previously thought possible, with a professionalism and attention to detail that's helped build my confidence both in the work and as a writer."
—Andy Dickenson, Production Journalist, ITV Meridian

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS

I run creative writing for young people workshops aimed at those who have been interested in writing for children, or who have started to develop stories, but are looking for guidance in going further. Workshops are very interactive, and involve excercises in opening up creativity, developing your writing in terms of voice, character, and plot, and an opportunity for a great deal of group work and feedback. Here is information about my next series:

Tuesdays 23rd October – 25th November 2008. (6 weeks.)
Writing for Young People with Laura Atkins.

7 – 9 pm at Brighton Writers Centre. Price £75 or £65 Concessionary Rate or Friends of THE SOUTH.

Early Bird Rate (before August 15th): £65

This course (extended from four to six weeks) is for anyone who wants to study writing for young readers. We will cover topics such as defining the boundaries of books for children, developing a strong plot, using language effectively, creating memorable characters, and tips on trying to get published. With a combination of group discussion, writing exercises and a chance to have your work critiqued (if you wish), we will cover picture books, early chapter books and writing for teens. Whether you are already an experienced writer for children or have always felt it was something you wanted to try, this could be the perfect way to develop your writing aspirations.

Laura Atkins has been a children’s book editor, a judge for the London Writer’s Competition, and has taught at both the undergraduate and MA level, as well as running children’s literature conferences and events. The Artistic Director for the Brighton Children's Book Festival, she holds an MA in Children’s Literature. www.lauraatkins.com

Book your place through THE SOUTH's website: www.thesouth.org.uk/workshops.html

I also run two monthly writing support groups. If you are near the Brighton area and would be interested in joining one of these groups, please contact me.