The Value of Highly Contentious Topics in Fiction
Description: In this presentation, author Joan Dempsey talks about how contemporary hot-button issues can not only entertain and challenge readers to step outside their comfort zones, but also sell books.
Format: Seminar with introduction
Level: This presentation is for the intermediate level author.

Joan Dempsey
Author and Writing Teacher
New England native Joan Dempsey, author of the novel THIS IS HOW IT BEGINS, received her MFA degree and teaching certificate in creative writing from Antioch University, Los Angeles. She teaches serious creative writers the craft of revision through online courses, free resources, and one-on-one feedback. She is the winner of the 2017 Poets & Writers Maureen Egen Writers Exchange Award. Find her online at http://www.joandempsey.com/
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I loved this, Joan. So much good advice and things to think about. Love the Hit Lit reference, as well. Looking forward to reading your book. Thanks!
Thank YOU, Donna! I’m glad you found some value in the session, and thanks ever so much for picking up my book. Hope you enjoy it!
Joan Dempsey is a nice mixture of poised, articulate and passionate about her craft. She is inspiring without being “in your face” or pushing products.. She is a refreshing change for an indie writer such as myself.
Shelby, how sweet of you to say I’m a “refreshing change.” I appreciate your kind thoughts. Thanks for watching the session!
This was a great session. Your four tips were spot on. 🙂
Tammy, thanks for saying so! I appreciate you watching, and I’m glad the four tips were helpful. 🙂
Loved this. Thank you ❤️
You’re most welcome, Lindsay! Thank YOU for watching.
Great interview! I learned a lot and will look her and her books and classes up.
Jan, so glad you learned a lot—thanks ever so much for watching, and give a shout if you have any questions. 🙂
I’m just chiming in to agree – this was excellent. Short and sweet but very useful and quite inspiring too. Well done!
Karen, thanks for your kind note! I appreciate you watching the session. 🙂
Thanks for the insight and the inspiration! have a few projects ahead of me about climate change that have both visual art and writing that needed that extra focus. I’ll seek out both those books.
Linda, glad to hear you’re tackling climate change in your work! So important that we focus on this challenging, dire issues. Thanks for watching and for seeking out the books. 🙂
Very helpful Joan
Clarissa, glad to hear this was helpful. Thanks for letting me know!
Great insights, precise, passionate, and very diverse but realistic strategies which I will take on board. Thanks Joan. I will surely get Hit Lit and your book.
Jean, thanks so much for your kind remarks. Enjoy Hit Lit and thanks for seeking out my novel, too. I appreciate that! 🙂 Enjoy.