Ever wondered how to breathe new life into a classic tale? Join bestselling author Nikki Payne for a masterclass in the art of the retelling! She'll pull back the curtain on how she transforms beloved stories into fresh, culturally rich narratives that honor the original while creating something entirely new. Through interactive exercises and real examples from her own work, you'll discover how to identify the heart of a story, find your unique angle, and weave in authentic cultural elements that make readers fall in love all over again. Come curious, leave inspired! and maybe with your next book idea scribbled in the margins!

This event is part of the 2026 DC Reads series, held in partnership by DC Public Library and PEN/Faulkner. Learn more about DC Reads here.

Contact the host of Nikki Payne's Masterclass in the Art of Retelling