crafting magical realism

myths & magic in modern fiction

Four-Week Zoom Workshop

In this lively and engaging workshop, we’ll examine how magic, fairy tales, and myths provide the structural underpinnings for stories that grip the imagination.

In this lively and engaging workshop, we’ll examine how magic, fairy tales, and myths provide the structural underpinnings for stories that grip the imagination.

We’ll then explore how modern writers engage with––and subvert––these classic structures to tell electrifying new narratives, and how you can use fantastical elements to investigate deeper territory in your fiction.

Over the course of the class, you’ll delve into works of magical realism by Toni Morrison, Téa Obreht, Karen Russell, Octavio Paz, and more.

Each writer will also complete and submit a magical realist short story and receive supportive, insightful feedback on how to strengthen it in revision.

During the class, we’ll use writing prompts involving mythic characters, magical objects, and fractured fairy tales to spark your imagination.

You’ll then develop and complete your own magical realist short story, guided by the structures and strategies Jaime presents in class.

Each class includes in-depth instruction, thoughtful story discussion, and an inspiring writing prompt.

ONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:

This class meets weekly via Zoom. Come prepared for a super-fun class with live interaction on Zoom each week and plenty of writing, reading, and talking.

PAYMENT OPTIONS:

Tuition is $299. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.

  • Instructor: Jaime deBlanc

  • Begins Wednesday, August 6th, 2025

  • Class will meet weekly via Zoom for 2 Hours on Wednesdays at 7PM - 9PM Central

  • Tuition is $299.

COURSE TAKEAWAYS: 

Writers will leave this class with:

  • A greater understanding of the structures, symbols, and settings of fairy tales and myths.

  • Increased confidence in exploring magical realist territory in their own writing.

  • Four original story beginnings and one completed magical realist short story.

  • Thoughtful, supportive feedback from the instructor on their completed short story

what students say

  • “Jaime’s guidance and teaching immediately put me at ease and allowed me to take risks to write about things I wanted to write about but had been afraid to try.”

    –Anna Stewart

  • “This was the BEST workshop! I had an amazing time with my digital cohorts. Everyone brought rich ideas, and it was so engaging.”

    –Jessica Bell

  • “I got so much inspiration out of this workshop. I am seeing magical objects, mythical themes, and even fairy godmothers all over the place in my writing now.”

    –Sarah Orman