As a total newbie to writing, Lavinia's workshop class helped build my skills and confidence. Each week she taught and led us through great writing tips and techniques. Her workshopping process created a safe and supportive space for me to explore and expose my writing style and the story I wanted to share. I highly recommend this class for newbies and experienced students alike! "
Paige Mantel, former student (Writing & Publishing the Travel Essay)
If you’ve ever wondered how to make a place spring to life on the page, this is your chance to learn and practice. In this three-hour generative course, we’ll explore techniques for evoking setting—whether you’re describing another country or your own backyard. Through discussion, short reading examples, and guided prompt sessions, we’ll cover the nuances of capturing on-the-go impressions, awakening all five senses, recreating atmosphere and vivid imagery, depicting both landscapes and urban spaces, and avoiding clichés. We’ll also delve into the multidimensional ways setting can be articulated, beyond physical details. And best of all, we’ll begin the practice of sharpening our attention so that wherever we are, we notice more deeply. This course will elevate journal entries, fiction, memoir, and poetry, and it’s open to writers of all experience levels.
Cost: $115
Target audience: essayists, memoirists, poets, novelists, journal-keepers—writers of all kinds and experience levels
The Best Women’s Travel Writing in Martha’s Vineyard
July 23
2026
Vineyard Haven Library
Martha's Vineyard, MA
Sip & Snip + The Best Women’s Travel Writing, Volume 13
Friday
July 31
2026
Cross Street Flower Farm
Norwell, Ma
The Best Women’s Travel Writing Event at Book Passage!
August 6
2026
Book Passage
Corte Madera, CA
The Book Passage Travel Writers & Photographers Conference
August 7
- 9
2026
Book Passage
Corte Madera, CA