I took the memoir writing class on zoom the summer of 2024. The teacher advised that people were to listen to everyone's final project, a personal memoir, without commenting on the content. It was extremely difficult for me to write about my traumatic and very personal experience of an abusive coworker from over two decades prior, and completely erased from my mind. I bravely wrote my memoir and even more bravely shared it. I alluded to this abuser having "a special place in hell" for what she had done. This well-earned sentence was torn apart by another participant in the class. Her complete disregard for the trauma I had been through and her single lens focus was totally ignored by the teacher. I was humiliated. The teacher not only ignored her comments about the content in my writing, but she even encouraged the participants comments. I never shared my writing again and I never will. read more

I just finished Junse Kim's Intro to Fiction class. This was the best writing class I have ever taken. Each lesson is a lesson on an aspect of the craft of writing and he gives you concrete instructions and actionable feedback. I used to just pants it and I only knew if what I did worked or didn't work. I never knew why and trying to fix it was a crap shoot. Now I know how to debug my own writing, I know how to make what worked better, and I know what I should be doing in the first place. It is incredibly exciting and freeing of writer's block. I am writing a memoir, not fiction, but the craft he teaches applies to all genres. Thank you so much Junse. If I ever finish my memoir, it will be all due to you! read more

I took David Jacobson's On Point: Crafting a Short-Form POV Piece class over the weekend in SF. I was blown away by how immediately useful the information was and how much fun the group experience was. After over 6 hours (we unanimously agreed to stay 30 minutes late), we all wanted more and were sorry to leave. David is a very generous and insightful instructor, encouraging and empowering while still being practical in his approach. He spoke to our individual needs as writers and tailored his suggestions to each of our pieces, writing styles and blocks. He also encouraged group conversation and ideas, so we all benefited from one another's very helpful suggestions, which we were able to incorporate on the spot. I could not have a better introduction to the Writing Salon. I've already signed up for my next class. I can't wait. read more

My interactions with Jane Underwood, the founder of The Writing Salon, were always positive and inspiring. So, in 2011, I decided to become a "lifetime member," paying the additional rate and expecting to take more classes as my time and budget would allow. The full-length classes I'd taken in the "earlier years" included Memoir writing with Kathleen McClung and Personal Essay/Creative writing with Alison Luterman--both of whom are talented teachers and writers with very different approaches. I learned a lot from them. I also took a handful of creative writing one-day workshops taught be others which were enjoyable and beneficial. Everything changed when Jane Underwood passed away. Now, I realize it must've been a challenge for the Writing Salon new leaders to reconfigure the organization; however, why dishonor Jane's memory? The new leadership chose not to honor The Writing Salon's original "lifetime membership" status that writers like myself had signed up for during Jane's tenure. I found their lack of integrity and appreciation for students and disrespect and discourtesy toward Jane's memory distasteful and unacceptable. Jane's vision for a writing community was completely dissolved. I've not taken classes from The Writing Salon ever since. read more

Someone with unique insight suggested that I should consider writing a novel. Say what? Unique voice? I do not know if I have the diligence, talent, and/ or creativity to put an original and entertaining story to the page, but I enjoy writing. I started the process and realized the Herculean task I was undertaking felt downright Sisyphean. After hours of work only to remold, remake and ultimately reject what was on the page, I decided a class was the way to go. Who did I call? Yelp! The Writing Salon offers one day and multiweek classes covering different topics and the students range from the deluded novice (me) to the published. The classes are a safe environment to share, learn and receive constructive feedback. I recommend for anyone who has any interest in learning more of the mechanics of writing and improving their process through practice. Elaine Beale and Jason Ridler are talented teachers. I am enjoying the journey of exploring, expressing and evolving my inner world. Destination unknown. read more

I took Katharine Harer's Personal Essay and Memoir class and really enjoyed it! I appreciated the frameworks she brought to class to understand the different aspects of what good memoir writing has. I also appreciated the different writing samples. She spent just enough time on free writing in the class and really maximized the time for us to be in conversation about what resonates with us as writers. I recommend this class, for sure. I left with the first few pages of a book I've been meaning to write for years. But more importantly, I left with an increased sense of the aesthetic I'm wanting to achieve as I move forward with the rest of the book. read more

I've taken several classes over the years. I did the Round Robin with Jane (founder and poet, RIP), a couple classes with Elaine Beale, and more recently with Lori Ostund. All were engaging, well-planned, really good and helpful classes. I also met some great writers, who I've continued to work with outside of the Salon. What would have been a 5-star rating (related to classes and teachers) is a 3-star rating because of recent changes to the salon. I (and many others) paid a membership fee and was accorded a small discount as a result. The memberships were unceremoniously discontinued without apology or peace offering. Betrayal of trust is the phrase that comes to mind... and was the key phrase used in a letter to the new leadership. The unacknowledged letter. At least he's consistent. read more

Love the intimate, un-intimidating setting. Instructors are incredibly well-versed and passionate about what they do. Choose your class wisely. Pros: It's writing! True writing! Welcomes writers of all different levels. Short, long classes. Cozy classroom. Cons: Be choosy of the class. Granted, I had high expectations (and anticipation) before I took this class. For the longest time, I wanted to hone my craft of writing. However, it was difficult to find a class that fit my schedule. I finally took Memoirs taught by Maureen Murdock. Here's my caveat: I have been writing in some form since I was 6. Any major event in my life I have thoroughly documented (I am anal like that), published in a blog/journal that nobody reads and have come to terms with people reading my work. Unfortunately, the class was geared toward beginning writers--writers who had difficulty finding their voice. The class became almost a therapy session with people crying over past mistakes and trauma. I did find that the different perspectives offered great insight and different ways to express ourselves, but I had been looking for different ways to write (or even perhaps receive advice). Maureen was an excellent instructor, but the students gave the class a different color. She gave us a book list of suggested readings and also tips of how to better express ourselves. We spent the class reading writing samples and doing several writing exercises. I felt that there could have been...maybe more groupwork? Peerwork? Because when we did share our work, it was with the entire class without building the trust first. Regardless, it was a short small class (just the entire Saturday 9-4). Next time, I will take a longer class because that I hope will offer more space to learn and grow. read more

This place changed my life. I went in so lost, knowing I want to write, but just not knowing where to start. All the writing cliches abound, but alas, this is serious. My career! Lisa Alpine led their Travel Writing Workshop, and was gentle, informative, a great listener. She even successfully sidestepped those 4 people in every group who never open their mouths. Takers! Ours was the make-up of a typical Contiki tour group. The larger, older couple with lots of questions about the Big World of the Net. The chick who arrives late and never makes eye-contact. The over-eager nerd who can't stop raising his hand. And the couple who in any other locale would be plastered. The SF location is cozy, inspiring, pretty centralish and clean. This whole hush thing in the corridor, and buzzing people in is a pain and tiresome, but don't let that put you off. Reminded me a little of preschool, which makes you want to giggle, and get in trouble all over again. Thanks to Lisa, and the Writing Salon, I now have a plan, a step-by-step directive, and a whole new friend to go. I just wish they'd let us apply their membership fee retroactively after the first course. I mean, buying membership cold is like booking a hotel room en route to a blind date. The fifth star is for the Good Earth sweet tea and mini chelsea buns. I already got my money's worth, and am writing up a storm. If you're thinking about it, go! read more

I was wary of taking a class at The Writing Salon for a long time because I was worried it would be too much of a congratulatory lovefest. I wanted a workshop where we would get down and dirty in trying to improve our work. I'm glad I got over my fears and just took a class because I was totally proven wrong. That's not to say that the environment isn't warm and intimate and big-hearted, because it is. But it's also rigorous in examining what is and isn't working and not quick to praise work as complete when there is more work to be done. I've taken many (maybe too many) workshops in my life, including at high school, college, and graduate levels, along with at retreats and conferences. Julie Bruck's poetry workshops rank among the best. I feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to participate in them and not even have to commute out of my neighborhood. In addition, Julie is just a wonderful and kind soul (and incredibly accomplished poet). Whether you're new to writing or are a published author, you'll find the Writing Salon a great place to go to continue and improve your writing practice. read more

I was initially skeptical because I'm a man and I don't go to Salons. I've always considered myself more of a Writing Barber man, and I'll admit that I was tempted by the Writing Flowbee. But now that I've taken several classes at the Salon, I'm hooked. Here's why: - Insightful, supportive, fun teachers - Diverse, friendly, motivated students - Snacks AND you become a better writer I'm going to trade in my pickup truck and get me a pen and paper. read more

I recently came across the pleasure to sit with Kate Montgomery in her 'Mapping the Story' one day workshop. It was my first class with The Writing Salon and a wonderful experience. Check in was a breeze. The class was conveniently located with ample free parking, in an intimate space yet with plenty of room to move about. Some light snacks and fruit were offered, as well as coffee and water. Upon arrival, I felt comfortable to focus and allow myself to be inspired. Kate was a highly enjoyable leader for the day - and she navigated the lessons with confidence and sass. She sent us home with many handouts that I will absolutely be referencing as I am just getting started on my memoire. Kate was easy going yet supportive as she led us through the framework of a story outline. As a group, we collaborated using this framework on a live creation example. It was very illustrative of how concepts and elements can be applied. Kate was funny and engaging. She did a good job making sure all students were engaged participants. It was a really fun day and money well spent to learn how to craft the bones of a story line. Thank you for offering this workshop; sometimes people just want to know more guidance about one element of writing, without taking a whole series. In the future I would try to market the class a bit more, if only just a basic flyer in nearby coffee shops and yoga studios. Our class was somewhat small, but this allowed for more intimate instruction which was fabulous. I highly recommend Kate, and look forward to other classes with The Writing Salon. read more

Okay, I'm giving the place five stars even though it's my first non-college writing class experience and so I have nothing to compare it to. I'm in the midst of my second class at the salon right now and absolutely loving it. The teachers are so completely down-to-earth (it's SF, what did you expect?) and the little house in Bernal Heights is a cozy affair adorned on all walls with female artifacts: lots of high-heeled shoes, paintings, photos, etc. Sitting on the couches in a circle with the resident nameless cat makes this place the perfect setting for writing. I also love the views from the kitchen and bathroom. It sometimes feels like a fog-blown sea shanty on a great hill overlooking the ocean, even though it's socked away in the middle of the city. So far, the classes have been 96% female, which in my mind (heart?) creates a warmer, more welcoming and more creative vibe. And it's probably got something to do with all the female imagery and brick-a-brack. But it can be a burden having to represent the male perspective all the time. Bonus points for luring me to Bernal for the first time after living here three years. Cute place. read more

I just finished a Personal Essay and Memoir class here. It really helped me launch into writing regularly both in the class and in preparation for class. We discussed a lot of useful pieces including those of many talented writers in the class. The teacher created a really safe space to share and write and I'm really grateful for that as it was hard for me to do both. I hope they do a longer course in the future. In our last class we were able to all get feedback on the piece we had worked on the most. I developed four pieces out of the class and will continue to work on them with the really useful feedback I received. read more

The writing salon is a well-orchestrated, low-pressure experience, with highly-qualified and competent instructors. Of special note are Junse Kim and Chris DeLorenzo -- sort of the yin (Kim) and yang (DeLorenzo) of the structured v. free-form class continuum. Both guys rock! I am only giving this a 4 due to the facility - the one in Berkeley is great; the one on York Street has a bizarre "safe-house" feel to it, and you can't exit the tiny room at break time due to what is likely a megalomaniacal HOA. Otherwise, kudos! read more

The Writing Salon is a great resource and the Round Robin has opened up my writing and enabled me to develop a daily writing practice. Jane has a special touch with the prompts. She's created a class that really works, as long as you are able to work with it, which means writing daily and also offering positive feedback on your partner of the week's writing. I've also taken a food writing class through the Writing Salon, which offered practical advice and a supportive environment for getting published. read more

Taking workshops at the Writing Salon has been a great experience -- it not only has encouraged me to write and improved my writing, but it has introduced me to a great group of people -- something a new girl in town definitely needs. The fiction workshop has a laid-back atmosphere with a positive attitude. There is enough structure to ensure that students are learning, with enough relaxation to nurture humor and bonding. read more

This place is amazing. A warm nest that inspires the writer in all of us. I have been taking classes here since August and have loved and learned from each one of them. I have been inspired and brought to tears by the other writers that take class here as well. I could't ask for a better place to keep me motivated and on task. Jane is awesome, funny and very insightful and got me off my butt! Kathleen is nurturing, warm and a great support. If you are thinking of writing, need some help or a kick in the pants - take a class here, you will not regret it. read more

I have taken a novel writing class with Karen Bjorneby and a fiction foundation class with Junse Kim. Both were excellent, and they have inspired me to look at writing in a new way (specifically, that revision is writing). I am starting a third class with Karen on July 16, and am looking forward to finishing up my first draft so I can get to the re-writing: who knew I'd ever be excited about revision!? I can definitely speak for Karen and Junse, who are both excellent teachers although their styles differ a bit. Jane Underwood has a good vetting process for her workshop instructors, and everyone I've spoken to has had good experiences with the classes they've taken. Highly recommended. read more

I recently finished Katharine Harer's class on Memoir and Personal Essay and absolutely loved it! Over 5 weeks, we dug into both Memoir and Personal Essay and finally wrapped with a workshop to deep dive on some of our own writing. Each class provided a forum to study the techniques of great writers, share our own work (if we felt so inclined), and do a free write. For me, the class was the right balance between holding me accountable each week without the pressure of sharing work that I may not have been proud of. Katharine's openness and warm style created an instant community. Despite only 5 classes, I know I'll be keeping in touch with many of my fellow classmates. They're a truly inspiring bunch. Net / net: this class has reinvigorated my creative writing, and I look forward to taking another class with Katharine in the future. read more

I just finished a 9-week course "Fiction Workshop - Build & Refine Your Storytelling Skills" with Cary Groner and here are my thoughts: This course is definitely geared towards those who are serious about being better storytellers. It's a great barometer to understand the level you are currently writing at. Because of the discussions and the work that was expected, it was clear by the end of the session who was motivated to move forward. This class was the perfect blend of introductory and advanced literary fiction--we covered the essentials: narrative, POV shifts, dialogue, levels of conflict, characterization and the importance of emotional cohesion. Cary delivered feedback in the most respectful way tailoring his comments to each individual and their level of sensitivity. If you want hyper critical, he'll give it to you--if you're starting out and fearful of rejection he will encourage and motivate. Cary is a kind, funny intellectual with a sixth sense for diagnosing strengths and weaknesses in writing--AND the ineffability that creates stellar fiction. He's inspired me to buckle down and really work on my craft and I recommend this class for those who want to do the same. I really hope to take his Fiction Gym class in January! read more

I took Intro to Fiction with Junse Kim at the Berkeley location. Junse is an excellent teacher, with engaging lectures and interesting materials. He outlined clearly structured building blocks for writing, in a way that was accessible to beginners. The general vibe of the class was comfortable and friendly- we all brought snacks to share and chatted a bit. Junse is cool, I would recommend folks take classes from him. The Writing Salon is an asset to our community, I'm grateful I found it. read more

I've taken two fiction writing classes at The Writing Salon, and plan to take more. The instructors are great, and the classes are really small and intimate, making for a very encouraging environment. I feel like most of us don't "create" enough, so I'd even recommend taking a class just to stretch your mind a bit. Relax, CSI Miami will be on again next week. www.writingsalons.com read more

I have taken many classes at the Writing Salon and have been pleased every time. The teachers are skilled, professional, creative and inspiring. The new San Francisco location is a lovely space and convenient to access from my home. Communication with the students is top notch. I look forward to taking more classes and refining my writing. This place is a real asset to the Bay Area. read more

I've taken a number of classes at the Writing Salon: personal essays, finishing a book proposal, public speaking. My favorite experience there has been the Round Robin, led by Jane Underwood, the Writing Salon's founder. During the six-week Round Robin course, you write every single day. Weekends and holidays included. A new partner provides support and encouragement each week. I'm amazed and thrilled by the amount of really great new material I can create in this environment. Highly recommended! read more

I've been here many times over the years. Classes can be good or mediocre, but I've never had a bad experience. Their refund policy is a bit draconian, so book wisely! Having said that, the instructors are caring and talented (for the most part!), the location is near many eating spots, parking has never been a problem, and the amount of knowledge you get from a one-day workshop is akin to a mini-MFA bootcamp. I love coming here to recharge my writing juices and I thank Jane for making the Writing Salon the place that it is. Clean bathroom, snacks, and coffee make this a comfy experience for all. read more

The Daily Write class is the first writing class I've ever taken and I had high expectations before starting the class. The experience is beyond what I hoped for and I'm learning from the other students as well as Jane's guidance through the first day workshop and daily writing prompts. The practice of writing daily helps get through my blocks and opens up my creativity to a new level. I highly recommend the Daily Write to writers of all abilities. read more

Small, low time commitment classes in an intimate, cozy environment. Rocking chairs and sofas, snack breaks, and optional homework...why can't all classes be like this? read more

Love this whole adult education thing! School minus the pressure plus cake! I took Alison Luterman's memoir/personal essay class in Berkeley and ended up writing a lot, getting great feedback and meeting some very interesting & talented people. All in all a very positive experience. Bonus points for the yummy snacks and tea. Everything is better with treats. Prices are steeper than I'm used to so I have to save up for the next class! read more

I am like many people who chose a career path but always felt a pull to explore other areas. Last summer, I took the plunge and took two classes at The Writing Salon: 1) Intro to Fiction with Junse Kim and 2) Starting Your Novel with Karen Bjorneby Junse was awesome, as was the class. I was truly bummed when the last class arrived, even though I had also signed up for Karen's class as well. My thoughts went something like "wow, Junse was so good; I'm sure the second class will be a letdown". I was completely wrong! Karen's class was great and it got me started on my novel and really gave me a shot of writing adrenaline. Each of these classes were more on the beginners side but we had a couple of classmates with degrees in Fine Arts who seemed happy as well. There were also others who, like me, wanted to explore that inner voice that had been ignored for years due to vocational choices. I cannot say enough good things about Junse, Karen, or The Writing Salon but can add one other plus...I signed up for two classes simultaneously and became a member of The Writing Salon and, when I did the math, I realized it cost me $13.25 per hour. There is really no entertainment that comes at such a low cost and almost certainly no better learning experience. Check out The Writing Salon. You really can't go wrong. read more

I took a class here one Saturday afternoon, and it was SO much fun. The class was "Exploring Your Writer's Voice," with Chris DeLorenzo. It was a very nurturing, positive environment. A couple of really strong writers were in my group, and being around them helped me come out of my shell and do some writing. Chris was a great teacher. He knew how to facilitate the conversation, and the exercises he came up with were very stimulating. My favorite was the one where he brought out a bunch of beautiful, mysterious vintage postcards. He asked us each to pick the one that draws us most, and to write a little piece about it. I wanted so much to sign up for an actual recurring class, but my work schedule prevented me from doing so at the time. However, I hope to do that in the spring. read more

I recently took a memoir class from Janis Cooke. It was my first wring class since college and I was unsure if my interest and ability would be best suited to memoir, short stories and essays, or screen play writing. I chose Janis' memoir class because it seemed broad enough to get me started. It turned out to be a great experience! You could find yourself in a class with people of totally varied experience from a novice to a professional writer. But the best part is there would be no reason for anyone to feel intimidated by lack of experience. It would be a valuable experience for writers of any level. I will absolutely take future classes at the writing salon and would especially like to take another class from Janis! read more

I just finished two classes in Berkeley, Intro to Fiction and Beginning Your Novel. Both teachers, Junse Kim and Elaine Beale were really top notch and I would highly recommend them or the Writing Salon for classes. read more

I love the writing salon! I haven't found anything like it for turning casual writers into dedicated writers. The instructors are wonderful especially Joshua Mohr and Karen Bjornby. read more

I recently completed Katharine Harer's Personal Essay and Memoir class. The 5-week course took us through various components of these writing styles, with each theme reinforced by readings, writing prompts and meaningful discussions. It's definitely a get-out-what-you-put-in situation, but I personally left the class with a renewed excitement for writing and some pieces I'm excited about thanks to Katharine's encouraging and informative approach. I'd definitely recommend the class for anyone looking to take the next step with their writing! read more

I had no clue as to what this place was until I paid them a visit early yesterday. This place is a great resource for folks that are trying to improve their writing skills. I had the pleasure of taking the poetry workshop and was able to explore ideas and thoughts that were buried deep down in the recesses of my mind that I never knew existed. It was a total mind trip and an experience that I will never forget. Julie was great in helping us articulate our thoughts and put them on paper. After it was all said and done I came to realize how incredibly simple minded and shallow I am. What a spiritual awakening! Highly recommended to all those that are in search of themselves. read more

I really enjoyed my first Writing Salon session on creative writing and common mistakes to avoid with instructor Elaine Beale. It was my first time completing writing exercise with a time limit and actually reading them out loud to the class! Being a somewhat anxious person, this made me sweat bullets but Elaine has a very nice, calming presence and was very encouraging. She set a nice tone and pace for the class and I enjoyed interacting with them all. The time literally (pun intended) flew by! read more

Interesting. I submitted a review 2 months ago and it appears to have been removed. We'll see how long this stays up. I agree with the previous entry about Junse Kim - I took his course a year ago and he was excellent. But this Salon is hit or miss, and it depends on the instructor. I recently took the "Beginning your Novel" course with Sam Sattin. It was incredibly disappointing. He was unprepared and seemed to shoot from the hip. There was no connection between what we did in class and the course outline that was published online. It took him several days after class to tell us what our next exercise would be, which suggested to me that he had no plan. I skipped the last class out of frustration. Make sure your instructor has experience. read more

I took The Writing Salon's 'Intro to Fiction' class at the Berkeley location with Junse Kim. The atmosphere is very casual and supportive, and I felt like I came away from the class with a lot more than I paid for. It is in part a collaborative class, so the group you are with will have some impact on your overall experience. If you think there's any possibility that you will take more than one class with the Salon, I recommend going for the membership off the bat; It only puts you out an extra $20 on the first class, but will save you ~$30 on your second class (and every class after that). read more

I took a class on writing personal essays with Alison Luterman. I loved it. She met each writer where he or she was, while also building a sense of community in the class. (How'd she do that???) She also provided insightful, eerily spot-on diagnoses of our essays immediately after we read them aloud in class. (Again how'd she do that???) Last but not least, she had an interesting approach to writing prompts, often using lines in poems to help spark ideas. This not only surfaced rich memories and themes, but also exposed me to some terrific poets and new ways to use language. I walked away from the class with an essay I'm proud of and clear direction on how to make it even better. read more