In this poetry workshop benefiting SMART Reading, we will focus on a timeless theme: children and/or childhood. We'll start by exploring and discussing a wonderfully diverse group of poems on this theme. Participants will then be given some thought-provoking ideas to consider as well as writing prompts, and we'll spend time writing individually. Near the end of the workshop, we'll come together and those who wish to share what they have written may do so. Participants will leave with a packet of poems, prompts, thoughts, and advice on writing about children and childhood. No previous experience in poetry writing is necessary, all are welcome!

Meet the Host:

Mary Christine Delea has a PhD in English and Creative Writing. She is the author of The Skeleton Holding Up the Sky, three chapbooks, and numerous publications in journals and anthologies. She leads poetry workshops in-person throughout Oregon and online. Her Substack, Peeled Citrus, comes out 3 times a week with creative prompts for artists of all kinds and her website includes a blog where she posts poems she loves twice a week. A native of Long Island, NY, she has lived all over the country and is now in Oregon City, Oregon. She volunteers with numerous organizations including SMART Reading, where she is a volunteer Reader at the Oregon City View Manor Head Start.