RSL/Man Booker Masterclass Series
The RSL/Booker Masterclasses 2012
The Royal Society of Literature held its second series of Masterclasses in collaboration with the Booker Prize Foundation during 2012.
The masterclasses are open to Members of the RSL and to members of the public, to established writers and to beginners. They offer a unique opportunity for both established writers and newcomers to writing to learn what it takes to become a successful writer and to have their work professionally critiqued.
Two of the four events are held in public libraries, to demonstrate the RSL’s support for these libraries in the face of recent cuts to the arts and education, and to help show that the services that libraries can offer to their visitors can be increased and diversified.
"Ali Smith’s recent masterclass opened my eyes to the endless possibilities that seemingly simple tasks could bring to my writing, and helped me overcome my reluctance of sharing my work. Having a world-class author comment on my work was fantastic."
Priya Khanchandani, Ali Smith masterclass participant
Ion Trewin, Literary Director of the Man Booker Prizes comments: “The Booker Prize Foundation is delighted to be working with the Royal Society of Literature on such an impressive programme of masterclasses and is particularly pleased that they are taking place at various venues across the country. As part of its charitable programme the BPF already supports a number of initiatives aimed at promoting excellence in fiction writing and the RSL-inspired masterclasses are a worthy addition.”
Colin Thubron adds: “With our Booker Prize Foundation partners we are giving masterclasses that are intensive, highly skilled and generous to students' individual needs. Few three-hour periods could be better spent.”
Masterclasses are for a maximum of fourteen people and six places in each class will be reserved for Fellows and Members of the RSL. Classes last three hours and cost £30 for Members and £60 for the public.
"Piers Plowright's recent masterclass on radio was hugely exciting, stimulating and thought-provoking. I came away feeling both energized and encouraged by Piers' constructive comments, and convinced that radio is the writing medium for me."
Julius Smit, Piers Plowright masterclass participant
Spring 2013 Masterclasses:
We are pleased to announce that our spring/summer tutors will be Peter Kemp on reviewing literary fiction and Ruth Rendell on crime writing. For more information about applying for the Masterclasses, visit our Masterclass page.
'I really appreciated the open way in which Hilary shared her craft and experience, and the time she took to give constructive and helpful individual feedback. I went away buzzing with ideas.'
Hilary Mantel masterclass participant
Please view our 'Top Tips' page to read tips and recommended reading lists from past masterclass tutors including David Almond, William Boyd, Hilary Mantel, Caroline Moorehead and Colin Thubron.
