Eckerd College Writers’ Conference: Writers in Paradise

The Ninth Annual Eckerd College Writers' Conference: Writers in Paradise is scheduled for January 19-27, 2013. The information below refers to last year's conference, but indicates the type of programming and events we will have at the 2013 conference. Authors and workshops change from year to year. Throughout the summer we will update this website, adding the names of 2013 faculty and workshop offerings.  We will not accept applications until the 2013 workshop offerings are finalized. Thank you for your understanding and your patience as we work hard to put together our best conference yet.

To see the exceptional level of programming we offer - here is the conference schedule of events from 2012.

Eckerd College Writers' Conference: Writers in Paradise 2012

Join best-selling authors, Andre Dubus III (House of Sand and Fog, The Garden of Last Days, and Townie), Elizabeth Berg (Once Upon a Time, There Was You, Open House, and The Last Time I Saw You), and Dennis Lehane (Moonlight Mile, Shutter Island, and The Given Day) for the Eighth Annual Eckerd College Writers' Conference: Writers in Paradise, on the shores of Boca Ciega Bay at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, January 14-22, 2012.

This intensive eight-day experience of intimate workshop classes, roundtables, panel discussions, readings, book signings and cocktail receptions is designed for those who are passionate about writing. Our award-winning faculty and guest speakers will also include Debra Dean (The Madonnas of Leningrad); Ann Hood (The Red Thread); Joshua Kendall (Editor, Viking/Penguin); Michael Koryta (The Ridge); Laura Lippman (The Most Dangerous Thing); Peter Meinke (Lines from Neuchatel); Stewart O’Nan (Emily, Alone); Elissa Schappell (Blueprints for Building Better Girls); David Hale Smith (Inkwell Management); Les Standiford (Bringing Adam Home), Sterling Watson (Fighting in the Shade); Daniel Vilmure (Toby’s Lie); and David Yoo (The Detention Club).

What Makes Us Different?

The tranquil seaside landscape sets the tone for this informal gathering of writers, teachers, editors, and literary agents. The intimate size and secluded location of the Eckerd College Writers' Conference allow you the time and opportunity to share your manuscripts, critique one another's work and discuss the craft of writing with experts and peers who can help guide you to the next level. After eight days of workshopping and engagement with peers and professionals in your field, you will leave this unique opportunity with a new and better understanding of your craft and solid ideas about how to find an agent and get published.

At the final Evening Reading Series Event, Co-directors Dennis Lehane and Sterling Watson will announce The Best of the 2012 Eckerd College Writers' Conference. Winners will be published in the conference's literary journal, Sabal.

Located on the beautiful waterfront campus of Eckerd College, this writers' conference features professional writers at the top of their form spending time with motivated and talented participants who seek an intimate, unhurried climate for learning . . . in paradise.