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The Complete Beginner's Guide to Magic

What's the most fun part of writing a fantasy book? Why, the magic, of course! Come learn about the different types of magic in your favorite fantasy stories, and all the things you need to think about when you're getting ready to make your own!

Sofiya Pasternack

45 Minute Program

$129

Welcome to magic school! Did you remember to bring your wand? Spellbooks? Magic rocks? Enchanted herbs? Wisecracking familiar? Spellcasting bubblegum that casts different curses based on how big the bubbles are?

Something integral to almost all fantasy is how magic shapes the people and places of the fantasy realm. But developing magic can be complicated! Join me to learn about the different types of magic and all the things to consider while you're conjuring up your very own magical universe!

About the Author

Sofiya Pasternack is a mental health professional, the highly-distractible author of fantasy for kids, and prone to oversharing gross medical stories. She's the author of Sydney Taylor Book Honor ANYA AND THE DRAGON (HMH 2019), and ANYA AND THE NIGHTINGALE (HMH 2020).

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Other Programs from Sofiya Pasternack

Wild Card Q&A!

Ask Sofiya whatever burning questions you can come up with!

Sofiya Pasternack

30 Minute Program

$99

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How to Plot a Story (Without Totally Losing It!)

Do you want to write a story, but then you look at the GIGANTIC task of plotting out that whole thing, and you say, "Never mind!" Well, fear no more! Learn how plotting can be fun!

Sofiya Pasternack

45 Minute Program

$129

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Turning History Into Fantasy

Have you ever heard that there are two sides to every story? Well, that's not true. There are, in fact, THREE sides to every story! Learn about the three sides of history, and how to use this triangle of facts and fancy to write stellar historical fiction and fantasy!

Sofiya Pasternack

30 Minute Program

$99

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Find Your Voice!

For serious authors working on the intangible and sought-after voice! What is voice, and how do we develop one? (Hint: lots of practice!)

Sofiya Pasternack

45 Minute Program

$129

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Learn to how to draw using basic shapes.

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Drawing party!

Let's draw! Award winning author and Illustrator Ryan Estrada has drawn Garfield, Popeye, Star Trek, Flash Gordon, and now he's going to draw with you! Grab some paper and pens! We'll play some illustration games and have a lot of fun!

Ryan Estrada

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Cure your stage fright in 45 minutes!

Do you ever wish you were better at talking in front of people? Whether you're about to give a speech in front of a big audience, read a book in front of a class, introduce yourself in a job interview, or just say hello to some new friends, stage fright can make life much harder! Luckily, I have the cure!

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Flying Paintings, Chinese History + Brush Painting and Calligraphy

Flying Paintings tells the story of two Chinese brothers who grew up during the Cultural Revolution in China. Through this program we will look inside the book, learn about Chinese history, and practice Chinese brush painting - all through engaging, multimedia presentations.

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