Using Appalachian Cryptids as Creative Catalysts

Virtual at our Substack!

Date & Time: October 3rd 12pm-2pm
Age Group: All Ages
Skill Level: All Levels

Free!

Description: Wampus Cats, Sheepsquatch, the Flatwoods Monster—and that’s not even all the cryptids in West Virginia! The Appalachian region has an abundance of supernatural creatures that can be an excellent source of inspiration for writers of all genres. This workshop will start with a brief introduction to some Appalachian cryptids, both to their legend and their potential in a literary context. Then, we’ll do some exercises where attendees can play with using Appalachian cryptids in their writing (and not necessarily just in a fantasy or horror context). Attendees will also get resources for learning more about the cryptids that are discussed if any of the critters pique their interest.

By the end of this workshop, participants will... have learned about prominent cryptids in Appalachia culture and how to use their unique characters and stories to unlock your own creative pursuit.

NOTE: This workshop will be live at our Substack account. You can set up your account at: www.substack.com for free. When you're finished signing up, find us at: Write Pittsburgh | Substack at the time of the workshop and you can join FOR FREE.

About the Facilitator: Jess Simms is a freelance writer from Pittsburgh, PA, where they're a co-founder of Scribble House and the managing editor of After Happy Hour Review. They are the author of the flash fiction chapbook Cryptid Bits (Last-Picked Books, 2024) and have published stories and essays in Mythaxis, Orca, SLAB, Atlas Obscura, Rinky Dink Press, and elsewhere. Find them online at

https://jesssimms.com

Refund & Cancellation Policy: Attendees can cancel their registration 7 days or more before the event for a full refund (minus ticketing fees). If there is a need to cancel registration less than 7 days before the event, 50% of the ticket cost will be refunded (minus ticketing fees).

Write Pittsburgh reserves the right to cancel events due to unforeseen circumstances including low registration. If this happens, registrants will receive a 100% refund of the workshop cost (minus ticketing fees). Please note that Humanitix does not allow us to refund ticketing fees, so that is not something that we have any control over.

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