How to Write History Through Fiction
Mastering the Craft of Making Real History into Compelling Fiction
About the Workshop
Historical fiction is a beloved genre that captivates readers by breathing life into the past. It not only educates us about significant historical figures and events, but also stirs deep emotions through its relatable characters. But how does the author share real history while keeping the reader engaged in a fictional narrative? In this enlightening three-part virtual workshop, Colin Mustful, an esteemed author, historian, and the founder of History Through Fiction, teaches writers how to integrate historical details into novels without disrupting the fictional dream. By analyzing his own work and that of established historical novelists, Mustful identifies the elements that make a historical novel effective and engaging. Complete with break-out rooms and direct instructor feedback, How to Write History Through Fiction teaches writers how to combine their knowledge of history with the craft of fiction.
The Basics
Where: Zoom Video Communications Platform
When: Sunday, October 8, 15, & 22, at 7pm US Central Time –OR– Thursday, November 30, December 7, & 14, at 7pm US Central Time
Length: 75–90 minutes per session
Number of Participants: Attendance will be capped at 8 participants
Cost: $49
Add-on: $25 – Receive a critique of a 3,000-word (or less) writing sample followed by a 30-minute one-on-one Zoom session
Example Session
Writing Prompt: Five minutes or less free writing based on a prompt provided by the host.
Break-out Rooms: The host will ask an important question regarding historical fiction writing. Attendees will discuss the question in break-out rooms.
Elements of Craft: The host, or invited guest writer, will lecture on some important element of writing.
Case Study: The host will read and evaluate an excerpt from a historical novel, showing attendees how the author effectively weaves history and fiction.
Assignment: Sessions 1 & 2 conclude with an option writing assignment based on the lessons of that session. Additionally, the workshop includes a shared Drive where attendees can read and comment on the work of other attendees.
Conclusion: Each session concludes with questions, discussion, and socializing.
Additional Information
All sessions are live via Zoom and will be recorded. The recordings will be available to attendees after the workshop via a private YouTube link. Approximately one week prior to the start of the workshop, all attendees will receive a PDF document with an outline of all information covered in each session.
Other Ways to Attend
If registration is full, or you want to register for our next “How to Write History Through Fiction” workshop, sign up for our Waitlist! Or, you can join our Member Area where all replays of our virtual workshops are available for viewing.
About Your Instructor
Colin Mustful is the founder and editor of History Through Fiction. As a traditional publisher, he works with authors who want to share important historical stories with the world. He is also an independent author and historian who has published four historical novels. He has a Master or Arts degree in history and a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. Mustful is an avid runner and soccer player who lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He believes that learning history is vital to understanding our world today and finding just, long-lasting solutions for the future.
Special Guest Writer (Nov/Dec Sessions)
Session 2 includes a visit from special guest writer Ron Blumenfeld. Blumenfeld is a HTF author who wrote the novel The King’s Anatomist: The Journey of Andreas Vesalius. During the session, Blumenfeld will be discussing the fictional main character of his novel, Jan van den Bossche, and how and why he created this character to write a more engaging, plausible, and detailed historical novel about the famous anatomist Andreas Vesalius.
Special Guest Writer (October Sessions)
Session 2 includes a visit from special guest writer K.M. Butler. Butler is the author of three historical novels including his newest, House Aretoli: A Novel of Medieval Venice. During the session, Butler will discussing how to use fictional characters as a vehicle for exploring historical events. While referring to specific examples in his own novels, Butler will provide attendees with the important information about the advantages and risks of creating fictional characters in historical novels, along with the keys for using it in your own stories.
