Whether you're just beginning or returning to a writing project, this is an opportunity to connect with others and gain inspiration.

Explore the art of telling your personal story in this hands-on memoir writing workshop led by Courtney Miller Santo, Creative Writing Professor at the University of Memphis and author of two published novels. Through guided exercises, participants will learn how to identify the key moments in their lives that can shape a compelling and relatable narrative. This session is a great starting point for anyone interested in writing about their past, and it includes a brief discussion of helpful strategies and resources for continuing the work beyond the class. 

For adults ages 18+. Registration is required and will open

In this introduction to memoir writing, participants will engage in hands-on creative exercises designed to help them find the hook in their personal story that will make their memoir compelling to strangers. This class is a terrific first step for people who have a true story to tell about their lives. The class will end with a brief discussion about strategies and resources available to writers working on memoirs. Too often writing is a solitary endeavor, come out and connect with other writers and learn what it takes to write about the past, people, and places that are important. Please bring a notebook and writing instrument to the class. Presented by Courtney Santo, English Creative Writing Professor and author of two published novels. Ages 18+. Pre-registration is required and begins September 10. For more information or to register, call 901-757-7323 or visit the Information desk.

Turn Your Anecdote into a Published Essay

The south is chock full of incredible storytellers who retell ordinary events with extraordinary results. This hands-on writing workshop and reading is designed to help you turn your best anecdotes and family stories into published essays—or the bones of a really great memoir. ​Courtney Miller Santo's work is featured in Best American Essays 2024. She teaches nonfiction at the University of Memphis.