The Viable Paradise Experience

Viable Paradise XX – Sunday, October 16th, through Friday, October 21st, 2016

Applications for Viable Paradise XX Now Open – Application Period: from January 1 – June 15, 2016

Viable Paradise is a unique one-week residential workshop in writing and selling commercial science fiction and fantasy. The workshop is intimate, intense, and features extensive time spent with best-selling and award-winning authors and professional editors currently working in the field. VP concentrates on the art of writing fiction people want to read, and this concentration is reflected in post-workshop professional sales by our alumni.

Should I apply?

Yes. Viable Paradise exists to bring your writing to the next level in terms of craft and professionalism. We only accept 24 students every year, and we carefully assemble a mix of instructors, students, and submissions that will bring diverse experiences in craft, genre, and industry.

With twenty years of experience, our students have gone on to be nominated for and win Hugo Awards and Nebula Awards, and to reach the New York Times Best Seller list.

Apply Now for Viable Paradise XX

Still not convinced? Take a look at what past VP alumni have said about their experiences.

Viable Paradise encourages an informal and supportive workshop atmosphere. During the week, instructors and students interact in one-on-one discussions, group critiques, lectures, and free-flowing Q&As. The emphasis at first is on critiquing the students’ submitted manuscripts; later, the emphasis shifts to new material produced during the week. Even when not actively engaged in teaching or critiquing, Viable Paradise instructors often share meals and general conversation with the students. Uniquely among professional-grade writing workshops, Viable Paradise often features writers-in-residence and guest lecturers who work in the field and offer their insights into the craft and business of writing.

The Viable Paradise experience is more than the workshop itself; it also includes the autumnal beauty of coastal New England and the unique island setting of Martha’s Vineyard. Taken all together, they create a learning environment that’s perfect for helping you reach your writing and publishing goals.

Apply Now for Viable Paradise XX

For More Information:
  • See what previous students have said about Viable Paradise.
  • Learn about what happens at the Viable Paradise workshop.
  • See the instructor and writer-in-residence roster for Viable Paradise XX.
  • See a list of sales by Viable Paradise alumni.