I found Allaboutwriting’s writing course expansive in style, educative in content and entertaining in delivery. Jo-Anne and Richard present a full gamut of learning and insight on creative writing seemingly effortlessly, with the welcome addition of real verve and wit. It was pure pleasure to participate. Tim Cohen
A very positive experience! Richard and Jo-Anne always gave constructive criticism. The weekly exercises were the best part of the course. Simamile Ndaba
The course has been extremely beneficial for me. The course was sophisticated, well thought through and professional. Lisa-Anne Julien
It was a positive experience. I always felt so invigorated after the sessions that I found it hard to go to sleep. Mariki van der Walt, producer
The facilitators were just great together. They complemented one another beautifully, and gave a perfect mix of hard (though always constructive) criticism, and encouragement. Jo-Anne and Richard are nothing short of inspirational. But also so down-to-earth and approachable. – Tara, media specialist and trainer.
Overall very positive. I am a lot more confident of my writing since doing the course. JP Potgieter, producer
Thank you for opening doors for me. I have walked away from the workshop with an open heart and a willingness to take risks . . . Thank you for your gentle creative spirit. – Warren, actor and lecturer in dramatic arts.
The nice thing about Richard and Jo-Anne is that they never impose their own voice on you. They help you uncover your own voice, your way of telling the story and understanding the characters. This comes from their own unique understanding of the position of the writer, and their sensitivity towards that. They are great teachers, and I have benefited immeasurably from their advice which is always practical, and always constructive. - Jackie, journalist.
The course allowed me to release the long pent-up flow of creative writing that has been gummed up, for some years, with academic convention and footnoting imperatives. Incidentally, my academic writing has benefited too from this detox treatment. – Cynthia, senior lecturer in history.
“I had written 80 pages before I did the course and then I realised it was just rough – the course has made me realise how to craft it and make it beautiful.” - Sharon, midwife
“I enjoyed being creative for the sake of being creative … There’s a lot I can pick up and take with me.” – Mike, school principal
“I’ve learnt really helpful, objective things – like you don’t fill your work with exposition.” – Kate, talkshow host and travel writer
“It gave us a chance to practise – it was great to write something and not feel a dreadful sense of insecurity.”
- Zann, publisher
“It’s been great to learn how to tell a story, and to test what works and what doesn’t.” – John, social worker
“The practical part of this course was the most valuable. You think, ‘Well maybe there is a book in me, maybe I’ll get there’!” - Mandy, journalist
