Comics Writing Class: Monster of the Week

$21 per session

Every comic starts long before anyone picks up a pencil. Before an artist draws a single panel, a writer decides what the monster looks like, when it finally appears, what the characters say as they run for their lives, and which page turn will make readers gasp.

In this drop-in class, kids step into that role with the guidance of Jeremy Whitley, a professional comics writer whose work ranges from Marvel to My Little Pony. Each week starts with a new monster prompt, like a creature that only moves when no one is looking or the monster responsible for every missing sock in the world. Students invent their own original monster, learn one trick professional comic writers use to build suspense and surprise, and put it to work in a short comic script starring their creation.

Every class stands on its own, so students can come every week or drop in whenever it fits your schedule. A quick refresher on script basics at the start of each session means first-timers are never lost, while regulars build a growing collection of original monsters and a toolkit of real storytelling skills.

Please note—this is a writing class, not an art class, and no drawing is required. The monsters are spooky-fun rather than gory, and students are expected to keep their stories appropriate for a classroom of their peers. Recommended for ages 9–12ish.