“Structure is not a template. Structure is a form within which you tell a story. It’s the rhythm, the cadence of the story, the pace, the beats.” — John McPhee

In The Architecture of Story: Structures for Narrative Nonfiction, bestselling author Kathryn Aalto offers an in-depth exploration of the essential frameworks that underpin compelling nonfiction narratives. This masterclass is designed to guide writers through the often complex process of structuring their stories, ensuring that each piece of writing is not only engaging but also cohesive and powerful.

Students will delve into structural techniques used in narrative nonfiction, from classic story arcs to innovative, non-linear approaches. Kathryn will demystify the process of finding and building a strong narrative backbone that supports your story’s message and keeps readers captivated from beginning to end. This course will introduce you to and guide you through the process of selecting and building a strong narrative framework. You’ll learn 10 different structures to consider for your own material, create a narrative arc that resonates, and choose the best structural approach for your story. Whether you’re working on a memoir, nature writing, food writing, travel writing, biography, or cultural critique, this masterclass provides with the tools and insights needed to construct a narrative that is both engaging and coherent.

By the end of The Architecture of Story, you’ll have a solid understanding of different structures and ways to construct your nonfiction with intention and precision, transforming your research and ideas into a polished, compelling story. This course is ideal for writers at any stage who want to refine their storytelling skills and create nonfiction that is both structurally sound and deeply engaging. Included in the tuition is Kathryn’s “The Architecture of Story: Structuring Narrative Nonfiction,” a 27-page booklet with definitions of structures, examples, and writing exercises to help students ascertain which structure works best for their material. 

Kathryn Aalto draws on her extensive experience as a teacher, speaker, and writer to teach you how to balance creativity with clarity, ensuring your story flows naturally — yet creatively and perhaps unexpectedly — while maintaining the reader’s interest. Through practical exercises, case studies, and expert guidance, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how structure can elevate your nonfiction writing.

Time and Tuition

• 4:00 to 7:00 PM BST
• Saturday, October 5, 2024
• Live online via Zoom
• The course will be recorded and shared if you are unable to attend live
• £60 fee including course booklet

Learning Aims

• Understand the Fundamentals of Narrative Structure: Understand the key elements and principles of structuring narrative nonfiction, from traditional story arcs to innovative formats, to create compelling and cohesive stories.
• Develop Skills in Organizing Research: Learn how to effectively organise and integrate your research into a well-structured narrative, ensuring that your story flows logically and maintains reader engagement.
• Adapt Structures to Different Nonfiction Genres: Gain the ability to tailor narrative structures to various nonfiction genres, including memoir, nature writing, travel writing, food writing, cultural critiques, biography and long-form journalism, to best suit your story and audience.
• Create Intentional and Impactful Narratives: Learn how to apply architectural principles to your writing process, allowing you to construct narratives with intention, precision, and a clear sense of purpose that resonates with readers.