Losing, Finding, Keeping: Resilience in Memoir - September 2026

In this generative class, we will explore how to write about the secrets, traumas and losses that are so often part of our stories. How do we find what raw material needs to remain private and what can be used effectively to deepen our narratives?  When we keep our courage and resilience, we make our writing compelling. The workshop will include grounding techniques, writing time, discussion about the creative process, and sharing from Lost Found Kept: A Memoir, winner of the inaugural 2023 Aurora Polaris Prize in Creative Nonfiction and published in January 2025 (Trio House Press).

Pay What You Can

‍In keeping with our mission, to ensure diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, we can offer assistance with the registration fee for this class through our "Pay What You Can" options. Feel free to select or enter a fee amount that accommodates your financial situation. We welcome all support of Literary Cleveland and our instructors.

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Details: Losing, Finding, Keeping: Resilience in Memoir with Deborah Derrickson Kossmann takes place Wednesday, September 23rd from 6:30-8:30pm in person at the Literary Cleveland Office (13002 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland OH 44120).

Prerequisite: None

Genre: Nonfiction

Level: All Levels

Format: Craft Talk

Location: This class takes place in person at the Literary Cleveland Office.

Size: Limited to 25 participants.

Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.