“Read, read, read,” William Faulkner famously advised.

But reading alone is not enough. To grow as writers, we have to study the page and ask not just what we loved or hated, but why it worked and how it was built.

In this session, you’ll learn how to turn every book you read into a craft lesson. We’ll analyze openings, character construction, themes, and endings to uncover the mechanics beneath the magic.

Because the truth is, one of the most powerful (and affordable) ways to improve your writing is by studying published books. Instead of guessing what works, you’ll learn directly from stories that have already earned their place on the shelf. Think of it as a hands-on education in craft without the price tag of an MFA.

Together, we’ll “take apart” successful novels to see how they function: how authors hook readers, build momentum, and deliver satisfying endings that helped them secure publication in the first place.

You’ll learn how to:

• Move beyond “I liked it” to meaningful craft analysis
• Deconstruct powerful opening lines and scenes
• Identify themes and motifs
• Diagnose why an ending succeeded or fell short
• Break down published works to understand what makes them marketable
• Apply what you learn directly to your own writing

By the end, you’ll have a practical framework for reading with intention, analyzing like a writer, and turning every book you pick up into a masterclass in storytelling.

What Attendees Have Said ...

"I especially liked the use of examples to show (in addition to telling...) Lauren's points. I will use the slides to not only dissect other works, but use the points to improve my own writing."

"Great presentation by someone well read with a lot of critical thinking and analysis experience. Great PowerPoint. In recent years, I've seen some writing classes presented by experienced authors and editors who just talk. I really appreciate classes that are accompanied by a good quality, well-organized and informative PowerPoint, so that I can refer back to it whenever I want to. This PowerPoint was extraordinary, really miniature craft articles."

"I loved how Lauren broke everything down and offered clear examples of the way stories work and how fully realized characters and themes need to be delivered to readers. The elements were presented elegantly and clearly."

"The clear presentation of points to evaluate as I read and view was more helpful than other presentations I've attended on this topic. The encouragement to explore the 'why' of my likes and dislikes made 'analysis' feel less daunting."