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Write the First Page

With BPL Writer-in-Residence Grace Ellis

Everyone has a book they want to write, but that first blank page can be a huge hurdle. This workshop explores techniques for getting started and looks at what makes an impactful opening page.

Everyone has a book they want to write, but that first blank page can be a huge hurdle. In this workshop, we’ll explore techniques for getting started and talk about what makes an opening page effective, inviting, and impossible to put down. Participants will read a few great “first pages” before drafting the first page of a writing project of their own, whether it’s a novel, memoir, poetry collection, comic, or play.

About the 2026 BPL Writer-in-Residence:

Grace Ellis is a New York Times–bestselling, award-winning writer of graphic novels, plays, prose, and animation. She’s best known as the co-creator of the comics Lumberjanes, Moonstruck, and Flung Out of Space, along with her extensive work for DC Comics. Her writing is noted for its humor, heart, and character-driven storytelling.

Outside of publishing, Grace is an active member of the Columbus arts community. She founded and curates Columbus Stage Times, a comprehensive weekly calendar spotlighting more than 150 Central Ohio theater companies, and she serves on the education board of Cartoon Crossroads Columbus.

Grace loves helping writers discover their creative voice across any medium, genre or ability level. She has a particular passion for demystifying storytelling and helping writers (i.e. you) feel confident on the page. When she's not writing, she can be found watching women's hockey or going for a lil walk.

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