What Writers Need to Know About Forming Critique Groups

INSTRUCTOR: Brenda Preuss
TIME: Saturday, February 24, 1:00–4:00 p.m. CST
PRICE: Early bird price: $45 for members, $60 for nonmembers. The deadline for early bird pricing is Sunday, February 18. After Sunday, February 18: $55 for members, $70 for nonmembers. Become a member here. Apply for a scholarship here.
LOCATION: Writespace, 1907 Sabine Street, #125, Houston, TX 77007 (map)
LEVEL: All levels
CAP: 15

Critique groups should be safe, fun, inviting spaces that encourage you to bring your whole selves and bring it messy. “It” referring to your writing, your authenticity, your bravery, and your freedom to express your creativity. In this workshop you will explore the where, what, how, and why of critique groups. The instructor will share her own experiences with “good” and “bad” critique examples, what works and what doesn’t, and answer questions and concerns about critique groups.

Experienced critiquers will get to problem-solve with the instructor and newbies will gain specific and usable tips on how to and how not to critique the work of others. Best practices will be shared, validated, and reiterated, including the purpose and function of critique groups, how to find the right group for you, what kind of writing to bring to a group, what to do with the comments given to you in critique groups, and how being a part of a critique group helps you with more than just the revision process.

You will leave this workshop ready to try out one (or a few) critique groups or even start one of your own! The instructor, Brenda K. Preuss, M.Ed. is Director of Critique Groups for Houston Writer’s Guild, another non-profit that supports Houston writers. Workshop attendees will receive a $5 off coupon to join Houston Writers’ Guild and take advantage of already established and open critique groups or to start your own critique group with her help.

This event is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance. This project is generously funded by the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, and Mid-America Arts Alliance.