Summer Writing School Student Strikes It Big

Roberta Rich didn’t have the typical author’s profile when she decided to take an intensive writer’s workshop at U of T’s Summer Writing School three years ago.  The former divorce lawyer of 25 years had been considering a career switch to writing when Joy Fielding’s “Writing A Bestselling Novel” summer workshop caught her eye.  A fan of Fielding’s work, Rich decided to sign up.    Since then, Rich has not looked back on the journey from aspiring novelist to bestselling author.  Her debut novel, The Midwife of Venice (2011), earned a place on the bestseller lists and has since been translated into several languages.

Joy Fielding, who has written more than 20 bestsellers, has been teaching the popular “Writing a Bestselling Novel” workshop for a number of years, emphasizing structure and strong characterization as the means to selling a story.  The workshop for emerging writers is one of several classes offered by the U of T Summer Writing School.  Taught by some of Canada’s finest writers,  the 2012 session runs from July 16 – 20 and features round-table workshops, panel discussions, and instructor and student readings.

The Summer Writing School is just one of the many writing programs offered through The School of Continuing Studies’ Creative Writing Program. Helping students learn the craft of writing in its myriad forms, the program is committed to inspiring creative curiosity, ultimately developing Canadian talent and enriching our communities.

June 4, 2012