The Whole Book
A Five-Week Course to Outline Your Manuscript
For writers embarking on a book-length creative writing project in any genre.
Next Session Starts January 15th
(Applications Open Nov 21)
Join the Whole Book Program Waiting List
You’ll be notified when applications open again.
Join a supportive group writers working on their books together
Whole Book Program Details
Program Outline
During the Whole Book Program, you will outline your book-length memoir, novel, or poetry collection.
We start with tools and resources for outlining a book, then we meet weekly for feedback on your progress and to discuss your challenges and solutions.
Our small group will workshop sample chapters or a completed outline.
The program also includes two one-on-one mentoring meetings to answer questions and make sure you’re on track.
What writers say about the Whole Book Program…
You’ve managed to have really awesome talented writers gravitate towards the program. There’s such magic that happens, all the different perspectives, too, were super helpful. I’m really, really incredibly thankful for the Whole Book and I feel super grateful to everyone in the group.
The program was clearly laid out and tailored to each person. I appreciated the guidance on creating chapter/book outlines and sharing them with each other to talk about in detail. The workshopping process was instrumental for me in better understanding my book project, and the weekly check-ins helped to keep up the momentum. I never would have considered writing a book without the support of Rachel and this program.
I loved getting to know other people’s manuscripts, and I really liked the variety of forms and content that we were working with. I learned so much from giving feedback to other people, and from hearing theirs. Everybody in the class was kind, generous and helpful. When confidence falters and doubt creeps in it’s wonderful to be working with supportive, encouraging writers who know what you’re trying to do and who are cheering you on. In the company of my dear allies in the Whole Book program I went from being frightened of my giant octopus of a manuscript to viewing it as an exciting project that I could finish and be proud of.
I am so grateful for your platform and the community that you have created because it allows for a running dialogue, where ideas are shared and discussed. Sharing insights with other writers who are engaged in similar pursuits has energized and strengthened my writing practice.
The Whole Book is For You if…
- You have published some writing in journals, a chapbook or a book and are currently working toward a book-length project.
- Want to join a dedicated group of writers you can run ideas by, and who will share their experiences, too, so that you can move forward with your book and writing career.
- You’re ready to get support and helpful feedback from an experienced editor and a group of warm and committed peers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Apply using the form that appears on this page during our enrollment period. (Or join the waiting list when registration is not open.)
Is there a specific point in the book process that this is best for?
The program is best suited for writers who have started a book project. That said, you can benefit at any stage and we adapt to your specific needs (we’ll do that in our one-on-one meetings, if needed). I’ve seen the program work for writers who only have a book idea and for writers working on their fourth draft of a manuscript.
What is involved in the course?
Here is a course outline:
- Week 1-2: Introduction, weekly craft writing assignments, and your first one-on-one conference with me.
- Week 3: First outline submission deadline One-on-one meeting to review your outline.
- Week 4-5: Weekly craft assignments.
- Week 6: Submit your revised outline. Final one-on-one conference to review your outline, and plans for the next stage of your writing. Final craft assignment.
Participants must set aside one hour each week to post assignments and ask questions.
When Does the Course Start and Finish?
The course runs for six weeks. Once you have been accepted, we will pick a course start and end date (during the months listed above) that is flexible and based on both of your availability.
When Will We Meet?
You will book times that work for you in my calendar. Note that generally I can meet Sunday to Wednesday, early in the day in North America (up until 2 p.m. Eastern).
What is the expected time commitment?
The expected time commitment is 2-3 hours per week to complete the craft lessons and work on your book outline.
What kind of feeback will I get on my writing?
You will get detailed, knowledgeable feedback on your book project and weekly assignments to help you dig deeper into book.
How much does it cost?
The course costs $795 USD.
If it is easier for you to pay in installments I offer the option of paying over four monthly payments of $199. I also offer sliding-scale pricing for writers who cannot afford the full rate.
Do you offer sliding-scale prices for this course?
Yes. I offer sliding scale pricing options to provide more access for writers who need this and reconciliation pricing for BIPOC and/or Trans Writers. Here is the information on my sliding scale:
For recently unemployed writers or writers experiencing reduced income and who do not have access to generational or personal wealth. Support Tier $676 or $170/mo x4
For writers who are experiencing financial insecurity and who also do not have access to personal or generational wealth and/or savings. Support Tier 2 $597 or $150/mo x4
Because systemic racism and transphobia create financial disadvantages for these communities, I offer reconciliation pricing for Indigenous, Black and other writers of colour and transgender writers
BIPOC Reconciliation Tier $398 or $100/mo x4
What payment options are available?
I offer a one-time or monthly payment option and sliding scale pricing for writers who cannot afford the full rate. Payment can be made using a credit card or PayPal.