Healing History's Wounds with Speculative Fiction 2026

NOTE: This class is asynchronous and does not meet at set times. Please ignore the time information included on this page.

Stories can wound or heal. In this class, award-winning author and editor Nisi Shawl will talk about the ways stories can hurt, the ways they can help, and how you can use their power--particularly when writing speculative fiction and alternate history. This asynchronous class will cover:

• The kinds of harm toxic stories can do to their audience

• Telltale features of many toxic stories

• A review of specific stories with harmful effects

• Discussions of ways to subvert or pass the harmful effects by

• Writing techniques for disarming said harmful effects.

• Live and take home exercises to provide practice in these valuable techniques.

Join us to learn the special, restorative power of writing speculative fiction and alternate history!

Event Details

Date: April 23rd - April 26th, 2026
Where: Online — Available everywhere and at your own pace
Price: 100 USD Scholarships are available for attendees who need financial assistance.
Registration Deadline: April 19th, 2026

Financial Aid Available!

For full class details, including required texts, accessibility info, and available financial aid, please visit WritingTheOther.com.

Refund Policy

If you find that you need to drop the workshop, you may do so by requesting a refund via Humanitix up to 14 days before the class start date. Beyond this date, you will not get a refund, however you may have that credit applied toward a future course.