Lakeshore Writers Writing Workshops

Lakeshore Writers Wokshops is like a spa for the imagination. Teresa creates a very supported, safe environment in which writers from the most inexperienced through the very experienced, can try new things, revisit old places, share out, if they wish, and look for what’s best in another person’s writing. No matter how often you write, or in what genre, I cannot imagine that you will not find inspiration here. I highly recommend it.

Teresa’s workshops are wonderful! She creates an atmosphere that is both nurturing and stimulating, and in which writers feel inspired to take creative risks and stretch themselves. She provides excellent prompts, insightful feedback, and is a gifted moderator of group discussion. Her workshops are a terrific way to build your writing muscles and gain the confidence to pursue projects to their conclusion. Writing at Lakeshore with Teresa reminded me of how joyful the act of writing can be!

The Winter Class of 2013 was awesome! I’m so glad I came back for more! The Fall Class of 2015 got me back on track by jump starting that creative part of my mind. That section of grey matter so often neglected by the drudgery of the everyday was jolted into life!
Teresa is amazing at coaxing out the fantastical from all who are brave enough to join her workshops. Wonderful authors gravitate to Lakeshore Writers where revealing people, places, and conversations in new budding worlds from the depths of our imaginations become commonplace in an extremely comfortable and nurturing setting.
I highly recommend Lakeshore Writers to anyone who has ever said aloud or though to themselves, «I have this idea. I wish I had time and a place to flesh it out in to a story.»

Taking Teresa’s workshop is what pushed me over the edge into becoming an actual writer. Before, I was just dabbling in writing with no clear direction or purpose – or confidence, for that matter. In her intimate and inspiring setting in downtown Oakland, I was challenged and exposed to all sorts of ideas I never even knew existed. She was encouraging and motivating, and also more than willing to give constructive feedback when I asked for it. If you’re a beginning writer looking to find a good mentor and setting to try out new things, you can’t do much better than taking one of Teresa’s small group writing courses. Likewise, if you’ve got tons of experience, she will challenge you to push yourself even further.

Teresa’s workshop jumpstarted my writing and helped me get over a significant block. She taught me that writing is a practice and need not be anxiety inducing. I have written a significant part of a book in her workshop over the years and am happy to say that I’ve produced a good draft (or two) because of her. She is a great facilitator and leader who offers gentle guidance and strong support for all participants. I highly recommend!

Teresa Burns’ Lakeshore Writers Workshop got me started in creative writing. I was hooked after my first workshop and have repeatedly taken her class. Teresa is an inspiring leader and knows how to keep the group focused. I have learned from the other writers taking the workshop as well. The workshop uses the Amherst method which is a great way to get inspiration, encouragement and positive feedback. Since taking this workshop, I have published poems, short stories and creative non fiction.

I have taken several workshop classes from Teresa over the last few years. The first time was merely to satisfy my curiosity. I am an attorney and wanted to write prose, not argument! After the first class I was hooked on the satisfaction of expressing myself creatively. I have come to respect Teresa’s professional discipline as a leader while managing to bring out the best in each participant. The workshops are also held in a warm and inviting environment, comfortable chairs, good lighting, and if you like, a great cup of tea!

This is a fantastic writing workshop (and Teresa is an exceptional workshop leader!). I’ve taken other writing classes, including ones at University, and none of them had an impact like this. I have produced lots of material in class that I never would have created on my own. Good for any writer who wants support and inspiration… I can’t recommend these workshops highly enough.