WORKSHOP: TOTALLY NORMAL, DEFINITELY FINE.

Totally Normal, Definitely Fine is a two-hour interactive writing workshop led by author and educator Kayla Tellington. In this session, we’ll explore how thrillers and fabulist fiction use suspense, hesitation, and the uncanny to unsettle readers and keep them turning pages. Together, we’ll break down what suspense really is (and isn’t), look at examples from contemporary short stories and classic theory, and experiment with writing prompts designed to help you stop before resolution, the hallmark of strong thriller/fabulism short fiction.

Expect a mix of conversation, guided writing activities, and take-home tools you can use to build tension in your own work. You’ll leave with a drafted scene in the uncanny thriller mode, a clearer understanding of how to escalate without explaining, and fresh inspiration for future stories. All writers are welcome, whether you’re brand new to creative writing or already published.

✨ Use the code FIRST TIMER at checkout to receive your…