Gail Anderson-Dargatz  

Work with Gail

Gail works with writers at all levels, from newbies to pros. Choose the course that best suits your project.

Creative Writing Course

Work independently and at your own pace as you learn how to put together the building blocks of fiction. Great for newbies and emerging writers.

Blue Pencil Sessions

Not your average blue pencil session, this consultation with Gail is a full workshop. Book at any time.

Fiction Mentorships

Gail's flagship course. In this one-on-one, private, four-month online mentorship, Gail will guide you as you put together your fiction project.

Developmental Edits

For writers with a complete draft. This manuscript evaluation focuses on the big picture but also includes notes on the finer elements of craft.

Writing Retreat

This week-long writing retreat in the Shuswap region of BC is timed to coincide with the sockeye run on the Adams River, a natural wonder.

Gail's Classroom

Already registered for one of Gail's courses? Click here to enter Gail's online teaching forums.

Blogs on Craft

Check out these resources for writers from Gail and many of Canada's best established and emerging writers.

Events and Workshops for Groups

Gail offers library and bookclub reading events as well as writing workshops for organizations and private groups.

Resource Categories

Blogs on Craft

On the Building Blocks of Fiction

Tips on how to craft vivid scene that allows the reader to experience events right along with the characters.

On Finding Your Big Idea

Insights into the writing process and what a writer's day really looks like, as well as perspectives on research and writing from real life.

On Getting to Know Your Characters

Advice on the many ways you can make your characters come alive on the page for both you and your reader.

On Deciding on Point of View

What is the best perspective from which to tell your story? Writers discuss how they made choices on point of view and voice.

On Choosing Your Situation and Setting

Writers talk about how they use situation and setting to build story and convey emotion.

On Developing Conflict and Structure

From how to work in different genres to finding the real story, writers offer good advice on building conflict and structure.

On Revising

Tips on how to gain distance from your work and to how to re-imagine your next draft.

On Publishing

Writers offer practical advice on the business of writing and promotion, and on the importance of finding a writing community.

On Making a Living as a Writer

Writers offer words of wisdom on living on less.

On The Writer's Life

Writers talk about their life as a writer.

About Gail

Gail's novels have been national and international bestsellers and two have been short-listed for the Giller Prize, among other awards. She works with writers from around the world on her online teaching forums.