Read Like a Writer 2026 - Session One

The best way to improve as a writer is to write. The second-best way is to read and analyze contemporary literature.

Join us for this reader series class where we will take a deep dive into the craft of one short story each month. In 2026 we will be reading our way through classic short stories that have helped shape the genre in its many forms. Together we’ll unpack character, structure, dialogue, plot, details, theme, tone, cultural context and more using examples from a wide variety of contemporary writers representing the future of short fiction. We’ll also discuss what we can take-away and learn for our own writing styles, projects, and processes.

Copies of the stories will be provided in advance of each class along with questions for reflection and additional suggested readings. Join us for advanced-level craft lessons, writer-centered discussion, and great reading.

NOTE: You can register for just the first session or receive a discount by committing to the full year.

Session 1

Jan 6: Bartleby, the Scrivener - Herman Melville
Feb 3: Recitatif - Toni Morrison
Mar 3: There Will Come Soft Rains - Ray Bradbury
Apr 7: The Death of Ivan Ilyich - Leo Tolstoy

Session 2

May 5: Paul’s Case - Willa Cather
June 2: Sonny’s Blues - James Baldwin
July 7: The Metamorphosis - Franz Kafka
Aug 4: Happy Endings - Margaret Atwood

Session 3

Sep 1: Two Kinds - Amy Tan
Oct 6: The Turn of the Screw - Henry James
Nov 3: The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas - Ursula K. Le Guin
Dec 1: The Dead - James Joyce

---

‍‍Details: Read Like a Writer: Classic Short Fiction - Session One takes place the first Tuesday of each month, January 6, February 3, March 3, and April 7 from 7:00-8:30pm remotely through Zoom.

‍Prerequisite: None.

‍Genre: Fiction reader series

‍Level: All experience levels welcome.

Format: Craft-based discussion

‍Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.

‍Size: Limited to 25 participants (including two scholarship recipients)

‍Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by December 15. Click here to apply.

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