This is the simple, basic framework we use to workshop our stories. We've found it to be very helpful--hopefully you will too.

Logistics (recommended)

• Frequency: minimum of once monthly
• Time: 7-10 pm
• Location: TBD by each Court, Barnes and Noble local at least once a quarter

Ideally, the group will meet 2-3 times per month. The above logistics are for the Official B&N sponsored meetings. All other logistics will be determined by the local NobleFusion court.

Session Format

• Business Meeting
• Turn-in for next meeting
• Confirm/revise workshop line-up
• Review Market Activities (contests, editorial staff changes, conventions, etc.)
• Discuss open NobleFusion business issues, recommend web site updates, plan convention attendances, etc.
• Open Forum
• Highlight recent rejections/acceptances
• Review submissions lists
• Workshop

Workshop (Modified Milford model)

• Maximum 12 Active Members in any group (target number 8).
• One person submits each month and is critiqued the subsequent meeting
• Written comments must be provided to support the verbal critique
• Submissions can be either one short story or 1-3 chapters of a novel
• All members must read manuscripts submitted and prepare comments (the edited MS and comments should be returned at the end of workshop session)
• All comments should be constructive , non-personal, and delivered with the intent to strengthen the work of the author and the viability of the story. (We assume all stories and novels are works of fiction and not autobiographical in nature).

• The purpose of the workshop is to strengthen the writing/critiquing skills of all present as much as it is designed to help the work in the session.
• Positive feedback is as critical as constructive feedback – both must be given.
• The public may sit-in on workshops in session at Barnes & Noble, but they may not contribute.
• Each member takes a turn in providing comment. The author may not speak during the session, except to answer a direct "yes or no" question.
• Each critic holds forth in turn.
• During critiques the writer may not respond to comments unless asked a direct "yes or no" question. No one may interrupt another's critique
• Once all critiques are delivered, the writer has the opportunity to give thanks, explain, rebut or say nothing.