
There is not one day when I don't feel blessed for being able to do what I like most — writing. I love to share my writing journey with others. My program can range from a one-hour presentation to a one-day workshop, depending upon your needs. Below are some sample workshops.
(left) Presentation at the University of Denver
How to Write an Award Winning Novel — Being a Writer in Two Worlds
If you have a fantastic idea for a book, or are currently working on a book and are interested in learning how to take it to the next level, you will want to attend this informative workshop.
Ying will share with you the journey of writing her highly praised, award winning novel "Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party." She will discuss her career as a writer, shifting between Chinese and American cultures, and the challenges of writing in her second language. She will also talk about the aspects of fiction writing -- grabbing your reader with a strong hook, developing a dramatic storyline, creating unforgettable characters that are beset by powerful inner conflicts, while emphasize the importance of maintaining high literary standards.
  Presentation and book signing on the Target Children's Stage at the LA Times Festival of Books.
Writing for Your Passion
This workshop will help writers bring greater focus to their work. Each student selects an event/topic to write about, shares their writing, and responds constructively to one another's efforts. Finally, I will help students incorporate feedback and work on specific weaknesses.
How to Sell What You Write
If you have a fantastic idea for a book, or are currently developing your masterpiece and are interested in learning how to market it, join this informative workshop and discover what you need to know to get your manuscript published. Learn what editors look for, how to create a winning book proposal, and how to sell your idea before you've completed your project. Find out how to convince a reputable publisher to publish your book and whether you should hire an agent, or negotiate a contract yourself.
Writing Books for Children
Explores the creative and exciting world of children's books in this insightful seminar. We will cover the rewarding aspects of writing for children; the different genres of children's books; how to generate story ideas; secrets of a productive writer; finding a good agent. We will also explore the financial opportunities that writing books for children can bring to you.
 
Speaking to over 700 students at UC Davis' Words Take Wing event.
How to Write and Sell Your Cookbook
Do you know that cookbook writers make money not just from their cookbooks, but also by selling recipes to food magazines, websites and by acting as a spokesperson for food companies and other outlets?
Drawing upon her personal experience, Ying will share with you tips on how to sell your cookbook projects with a proposal, pitch your article ideas, and maximize profits by reusing material in print and on-line. This class offers you all the ingredients you need to get published.
- Choosing a theme and selecting a story line
- Writing, editing, and testing your recipes
- Finding the right publisher, or self-publishing.
Ying has written five successful cookbooks, over 60 featured food articles for national magazines, worked as the food editor for Martha Stewart's body+soul magazine, and as a spokesperson for two international companies.
How to Make a Living as a Writer
Who says writers have to starve? When writing for passion, you should also get paid. Let this successful author of children's books, cookbooks, magazine articles and on-line media share her secrets on how to be a productive writer and how to build a financially rewarding career. Also explore the nontraditional financial opportunities that writing can bring. Start building a profitable writing career!
Other Topics
- Write what you know
- How to Write and Sell Your Memoir
- How to get started: research, critique groups, rewrites
- How to find and work with an agent and editor
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