Workshops
On Saturday, November 21, 2026, 10 AM to I PM, I will be giving a writing workshop at SOMOS in Taos focussed on creating a compelling narrative voice. I’m also doing a reading from my new book at the SOMOS Salon on Friday, November 20, 5:30 PM. The reading will be free, the workshop will be a fundraiser, all money going to SOMOS.
FINDING YOUR NARRATIVE VOICE
Creating a compelling narrative voice is one of the most important aspects of good writing, whether fiction or memoir, and you need to do this from the first sentence if you want to capture the interest of readers in a busy world. In this 3-hour workshop, we will explore the idea that the narrator of a story is a construct, not the actual voice of the author, though it may be close. Good authors create a voice that is sharper, wiser, funnier, and perhaps more devious than their true selves. We will look at examples of how writers do this, including Nabokov, J.D. Salinger, Joan Didion, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Raymond Chandler, and more, paying particular attention to the first few sentences that set the narrative tone. There will be time for an exercise or two, open discussion, and the opportunity for you to discuss your individual projects. If you are able, please bring a brief sample of your writing so we can give supportive feedback. I see writing as a communication skill and my goal is to help you publish.
To register for the workshop, please contact:
SOMOS Salon & Bookshop
108 Civic Plaza Drive
Taos, NM 87571
575 758-0081
Student Comments on Robert Westbrook Workshops
“Robert was extremely skilled at presenting the technical aspects of writing, along with anecdotes and real-life experiences about what publishers will accept. He also critiqued well, presenting positives and challenges. I would recommend [this workshop] highly and I’d try to come back! Thanks so much for a wonderful and inspiring time!”
“Robert was encouraging yet constructive, realistic yet optimistic. I felt everyone’s skills improved during the workshop specifically because of the direction he gave each writer. The caliber of instruction was exceptional, the group was supportive but honest—a terrific workshop!”
“Robert’s constructive criticism of our work was given in a way to make us feel comfortable in front of other writers. It was instructive and seemed to hit on the high spots where I needed help. His use of other published works and his experience as a writer were very insightful.”
“Mr. Westbrook has left us all with a plan to get our mystery novels written. This has been an excellent workshop . . . Robert has been wonderful. I wish the class could be longer!”
“Robert was excellent—very tuned in to the differing skill and experience levels. I researched many other workshops and particularly chose this one because of Robert Westbrook’s publishing history and because I read his books.”
“Robert was the perfect choice for this workshop. His vast experience and knowledge would be difficult to replace. He is passionate about his work and his passion is contagious . . . Robert’s style was very conducive to writing. He obviously cared about our progress.”