Writing Workshop

Have you always harbored a secret desire to write the next Great American Novel? Hone your writing skills at a workshop presented by Steve Berry,
10 a.m.–2 p.m. June 2 at the Des Moines Public Library (DMPL) downtown. Berry is a best-selling author of historical thrillers whose newest novel, “The Columbus Affair,” will be out May 15.

At the workshop, you’ll not only have a chance to unleash your inner Jonathan Franzen, but also support a great cause: Proceeds benefit preservation efforts at Terrace Hill. Through History Matters, a foundation he and his wife, Elizabeth, founded, Berry chooses a preservation cause to support and then travels to that city on his own dime and donates his time to teach aspiring writers. How cool is that?

There’s more: Berry will discuss “The Columbus Affair” as part of the part of DMPL’s AViD (Authors Visiting in Des Moines) series, 7 p.m. May 31 at Scottish Rite Consistory. In addition, Gov. Terry and Chris Branstad will host a VIP reception for Berry at Terrace Hill June 2. Berry also will participate a community forum, hosted by Harry Bookey and Pamela Bass-Bookey, on historic preservation at Salisbury House & Gardens (the date hadn’t been set as of press time).

Cost of the writing workshop is $100; for reservations or for more information, call 280.3980 or email terracehillfoundation@gmail.com. You also can mail your check to: Steve Berry Writers Workshop, Terrace Hill, 2300 Grand Ave., 50312. The AViD talk is free. (Ticket prices for the Terrace Hill reception and the Salisbury House event weren’t available at press time.)