Based on a True Story: Developing Memories into Literature – with Bart Schneider

Bringing the tools of poetry and fiction to memoir. 6 Wednesdays – 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Many folks are drawn to the idea of writing a memoir but find the notion of composing a book-length account daunting. This class will encourage writing from personal experience in a variety of forms and lengths, will introduce a range of narrative approaches, and explore methods for developing a germ of memory into a substantial form. We will also consider the ethical concerns of taking liberty with “the facts” to enhance the story, (or how much poetic license will the puritanical worm in your brain allow?) The instructor will introduce literary examples and offer prompts for in-class writing. Participants will be invited to share their in-class writing as well as their writing from home. In addition to writing implements please bring memories and stories to the gathering. Dates: October 21 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM October 28 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM November 4 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM November 11 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM November 18 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM December 2 — 11:00 AM–1:00 PM Fee: $210, $175 OHCA Members Max 8 participants Enroll Today → About Bart: Bart Schneider is the author of six novels, including Blue Bossa, a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, and Secret Love, a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. Bart presented his novel Giacometti’s Last Ride at OHCA in 2026 with artist Chester Arnold. Schneider is also the author of three volumes of poetry and the publisher of Kelly’s Cove Press. Visit: https://www.kellyscovepress.com/bart-schneider/