Aspiring and experienced writers are invited to a focused masterclass on Drafting a Novel on Saturday, October 10th, from 10:00am to 1:00pm EDT. Hosted by Philadelphia Stories Inc. and facilitated by Carla Spataro,Director of Rosemont College’s MFA in Creative Writing and MA in Publishing programs and the Writer’s Studio, this session offers practical strategies to help writers move their manuscripts toward the finish line.

Whether you are stuck in the middle of a draft or looking for a clearer process, this masterclass is designed to provide concrete guidance for drafting a novel with greater confidence and direction.

Practical Strategies from an Experienced Teacher

Carla Spataro has taught novel writing courses at Rosemont for many years, including before she became Program Director. Over that time, she has helped hundreds of students finish a novel, and in some cases more than one. Several of those students have gone on to sign with agents and publish with independent and Big Five publishers.

On October 10th, participants will spend the day discussing strategies that support completion, momentum, and craft. The emphasis is practical: how to keep going, how to structure progress, and how to approach the challenges that often stall a long-form project.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, October 10th
• Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm EDT
• Location: 1 E Front St, Media, PA 19063, USA
• Host: Philadelphia Stories Inc.
• Facilitator: Carla Spataro

Please note that while the masterclass is facilitated by Rosemont’s MFA and Publishing program leadership, this particular event is hosted by Philadelphia Stories Inc. and is not part of the Writer’s Studio series.

Explore More Opportunities Through Writer’s Studio

Writers who enjoy this kind of focused craft conversation are also encouraged to explore Rosemont’s Writer’s Studio for additional public opportunities. The Writer’s Studio offers workshops and programs designed to support creative development across genres and experience levels.

One especially exciting option is next year’s international Writer’s Retreat in Spain, an immersive experience that combines travel, literary exploration, and dedicated time for writing. Opportunities like these complement masterclasses on drafting a novel by placing craft within broader communities of practice.

If you are ready to spend a morning focused on strategies for finishing your book, consider joining this masterclass on October 10th in Media. Bring your questions, your current challenges, and your commitment to moving forward.

The Writer's Studio courses are non credit offerings affiliated with Rosemont College’s Creative Writing MFA Program. Our mission is to provide graduate students from any program, as well as other members of the broader Philadelphia writing community, with affordable access to focused writing and publishing workshops and masterclasses.

Each Writer's Studio course is limited to 12 students, ensuring a personalized and engaging learning experience. Additionally, courses require a minimum of 3 students to proceed, ensuring that each offering is viable and productive.

Space is limited. Register early & see the registration forms for availability.

Master classes are offered on campus and online. They are open to non students for a fee, are free for current Rosemont students and elligible for the Rosemont College Alumni discount.

Workshops are six weeks and are conducted online, providing convenient access to participants regardless of their location. Additionally, these workshops are eligible for the Rosemont College Alumni discount, allowing alumni to continue their professional development at a reduced cost.

Retreats are noncredit courses offered on location for weekend or weeklong periods (international retreats available on a limited basis). They are open to non students and students for a fee, and elligible for the Rosemont College Alumni discount.