7 Writing Workshops That Will Take Your Friend's Skills to the Next Level (2026)

If your friend is passionate about writing and looking to enhance their skills, finding the right workshop can make all the difference. These gifts not only show your support for their interests but also encourage them to pursue their writing aspirations. Workshops can also provide the opportunity to connect with fellow writers and receive valuable feedback on their work. Here are 7 carefully curated writing workshops available through online platforms that will elevate your friend’s writing journey. Each workshop caters to different genres and skill levels, making them ideal gifts for birthdays, holidays, or simply to show your appreciation for their dedication to writing.

The Creative Writing Course for Beginners
This beginner-friendly course is perfect for those just embarking on their writing journey. It covers the fundamentals of storytelling, character development, and style, providing your friend with the essential tools to kick-start their writing endeavors.
The Creative Writing Coursebook: 40 Authors Share Advice and Exercises for Fiction and Poetry
$28.89
Curso de escritura creativa / Creative Writing Course (Spanish Edition)
$20.45
RSL Creative Writing, Book 1
$19.99
Complete Write a Novel Course: Your complete guide to mastering the art of novel writing (Teach Yourself)
$2.99
Memoir Writing Retreat
This retreat provides a supportive environment for writers to craft their memoirs. Your friend will benefit from dedicated writing time, expert guidance, and connection with fellow memoirists, making it a thoughtful and inspiring gift.
Memoir Writing For Dummies
$14.29
Writing A Memoir: From Stuck to Finished!: Helpful Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Family History and Putting Life Stories on Paper
$4.99
The Memoir Project: A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life
$10.79
The Memoir Workbook: A Step-by Step Guide to Help You Brainstorm, Organize, and Write Your Unique Story (Writer's Toolbox)
$16.95
Fiction Writing Masterclass
Designed for aspiring novelists, this masterclass helps participants develop their fiction writing skills through interactive lessons and personalized feedback. It's a valuable gift for your friend to refine their craft and elevate their storytelling abilities.
Master Class in Fiction Writing: Techniques from Austen, Hemingway, and Other Greats
$11.12
How to Write a Novel Using the Snowflake Method (Advanced Fiction Writing)
$11.99
Writing Crime Fiction: An introduction: A 60-Minute Masterclass
$2.99
Fiction Writing Master Class: Emulating the Work of Great Novelists to Master the Fundamentals of Craft
$16.99
Online Poetry Workshop
This online workshop focuses on the art of poetry, guiding participants to explore different styles and techniques. It's an excellent gift for anyone looking to delve deeper into poetry writing and find their unique voice.
In the Palm of Your Hand: The Poet's Portable Workshop
$12.49
The Crafty Poet II: A Portable Workshop
$17.26
The Portable Poetry Workshop
$110.00
The Practice of Poetry: Writing Exercises From Poets Who Teach
$11.73
Advanced Creative Nonfiction Workshop
This workshop is aimed at writers who want to master the art of creative nonfiction. It focuses on narrative techniques and point of view, helping your friend transform personal stories into compelling works.
The Portable MFA in Creative Writing
$12.99
Touchstone Anthology of Contemporary Creative Nonfiction: Work from 1970 to the Present
$12.49
Keep It Real: Everything You Need to Know About Researching and Writing Creative Nonfiction
$14.82
Beyond the Writers' Workshop: New Ways to Write Creative Nonfiction
$15.95
Screenwriting Course for Beginners
If your friend is interested in writing for film or television, this screenwriting course introduces them to the structure and techniques of screenwriting. It's a unique gift that can help them explore a different facet of storytelling.
Write Screenplays that Sell: The Ackerman Way: 20th Anniversary Edition, Newly Revised and Updated
$21.95
Character Animation Crash Course!
$27.99
The Story Book: A writers' guide to story development, principles, problem solving and marketing (The Story Series)
$17.00
Secrets of Storytelling: A Creative Writing Workbook for Kids
$9.33
Writing for Children Workshop
This workshop is tailored for aspiring children's book authors. It covers topics from character creation to age-appropriate language, making it the perfect gift for someone who dreams of writing for young readers.
Welcome to Writing Workshop
$31.96
The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop: How To Decolonize the Creative Classroom (BreakBeat Poets)
$14.39
Writing Workshop: The Essential Guide
$29.80
Read, Recite, and Write Free Verse Poems (Poet's Workshop)
$9.95

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right workshop for my friend?

Consider your friend's writing interests, whether they prefer fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or screenwriting. You could also think about their skill level—if they are a beginner or more advanced.

Can workshops be taken online?

Yes! Many reputable writing workshops are now available online, allowing participants to join from the comfort of their homes.

Are there any workshops specifically for young writers?

Yes! Many workshops cater to young or emerging writers, focusing on age-appropriate writing techniques and styles.

What if my friend doesn't have a specific genre they prefer?

You could opt for a general creative writing workshop that covers multiple genres and styles, giving your friend the freedom to explore various forms of writing.

How will a workshop benefit my friend's writing skills?

Workshops provide structure, feedback, and inspiration, encouraging writers to practice regularly and connect with others, which can greatly improve their skills.