Would You Recommend ICL To Your Friends Or Your Foes?

[DenimSoul]

Hi Everybody,

How many of you are current students of the Institute of Children's Literature? How many are graduates? Do you regret taking the course? Are you happy with the experience?

I took the ICL course years ago and I've had mixed feelings about it. One good thing I can say about it though, is that it keeps you writing on a regular basis. I think that point alone makes the course worthwhile to new writers.

Has anyone taken the advanced course? Does it involve writing a book manuscript? Or does it still revolve around writing for magazines?

Everyone is great about responding to my threads. Thank you!!

[PrettySpecialGal]

I took the ICL course years ago as well. I do believe that it served its purpose for the time; I was in Germany with my husband in the Army, and not many colleges of interest to me there. I grew up wanting to write, and did so, but realized I needed some focus and refinement of skills. So, for that, it served me wonderfully. However, other things have happened, and I have not been able to get serious about my writing again until now. (past 2 years) I've kind of toyed around with the thought of an advanced course, but I think I've found some good people around here to critique my things and offer suggestions, and since $$ is scarce- I think I'll save it for when I go and get my Masters in creative writing.

So I guess that all boils down to- it was good for me back then when I needed it, but not sure it'll be the best for me now. (still gotta work on concice word choice!)

Good question!

PSG

[Button]

I just filled out the application and sent it in. I've heard wonderful things about it, but mostly I just want that extra nudge to get to writing. Anything I learn would be of great benifit.

Can you all tell me about the advance course? What does it do?

[Inspired]

There's a previous thread on ICL, if you want more opinions.

I would highly recommend the basic course for the beginning writer. I don't have experience with the others.

[Inspired]

Go to the ICL website and find "writer's retreat." It's a message board frequented by ICL students. You may find a few who've taken the advanced course.