This writing course, True Crime and Crime Fiction: Researching and Writing in the State Library Archives with Dr Rachel Franks, takes place at the State Library of NSW in Sydney.

Murder is never straightforward, but by following – and occasionally breaking – the rules laid down by the best crime writers, you can tell powerful stories of terrible criminals and great detectives. Join Dr Rachel Franks as she unpacks the challenges of crafting crime stories based on real-life events and offers practical solutions to common writing dilemmas. Whether you’re writing true crime or true-ish crime, research is critical to crafting compelling mysteries. This interactive, hands-on workshop will teach you how to lay a solid foundation for convincing characters, clever crimes, and plot twists.

As you explore crime-writing rooted in historical events, you’ll have the opportunity to strengthen your research skills and reflect on the key ethical challenges these stories present to both writers and readers.

Expected learning outcomes

In this workshop, participants will:

1. Understand the shared histories of crime fiction and true crime, and how crime stories have evolved to become the world’s most popular type of reading
2. Learn some of the essential skills required to research and write a crime story
3. Explore strategies to engage your readers through character, language, plot and setting.

Venue

This workshop will be held at The State Library of NSW. Participants will be shown how to use library archives to access collections relating to their area of research.

Participant requirements

Pen and paper, and/or a fully charged device.

Is this workshop right for you? Please read our FAQ> for important information before enrolling. 

If you have questions about this course, please contact us.

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