Summer Class 2026: Speculative Fiction
(Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Dystopian, and Everything in Between)
Class Description
10:00–11:30 AM PST | 1:00–2:30 PM EST
July 27 - 31 | Open to Writers of All Skill Levels
Speculative fiction asks one simple but powerful question: What if?
From magical kingdoms and futuristic societies to alternate histories and supernatural mysteries, this genre invites writers to imagine worlds beyond the limits of reality while exploring profound questions about humanity, culture, technology, and the future.
In this immersive course, participants will examine the foundations of speculative storytelling, including worldbuilding, character development, conflict creation, and the use of speculative elements to communicate deeper themes. Writers will learn how to create settings that feel vivid and believable, develop compelling characters who navigate extraordinary circumstances, and construct narratives that balance imagination with emotional authenticity.
Throughout the week, participants will engage in writing exercises, discussions, and workshops designed to strengthen both their technical skills and creative thinking. Whether you're writing fantasy, science fiction, dystopian fiction, magical realism, horror, or a genre all your own, this course will provide the tools and inspiration needed to transform ambitious ideas into captivating stories.
Class Summary
Students will explore the limitless possibilities of speculative fiction while learning how to transform imaginative ideas into compelling stories. Through worldbuilding exercises, creative challenges, discussions, and workshops, participants will develop the skills needed to craft immersive settings, memorable characters, and engaging plots that captivate readers. By the end of the course, students will have created original speculative fiction pieces and gained a deeper understanding of how imaginative storytelling can be used to explore complex themes and ideas.
Topics covered:
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Foundations of speculative fiction and genre exploration
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Worldbuilding and setting design
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Creating compelling characters in extraordinary worlds
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Magic systems, technology, and speculative concepts
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Plot development and conflict creation
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Themes, symbolism, and social commentary
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Balancing imagination with realism and emotional depth
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Revision and workshop strategies for speculative fiction
Students will participate in instructor-led and supervised lessons with activities during online sessions. They will then have the rest of the day to write at their own pace, applying the skills taught in class to their projects.
Meet Your Instructors
Keiko Rakin is the Founder and CEO of the Young Authors' Alliance (YAA), an international organization empowering youth writers. She is an incoming freshman at Wellesley College studying English & Creative Writing and Peace & Justice Studies, and passionate about storytelling, advocacy, and education. Keiko is in the process of publishing her 450-page fantasy novel and has participated in programs including WriteGirl, Write The World, UCLA Writers' Extension, Idyllwild Arts, and the Telluride Association Summer Seminar. She has also taught three previous YAA summer programs: Introduction to Creative Writing, Speculative Fiction, and Writing for Social Justice. Through her work as a writer, educator, and nonprofit leader, Keiko is dedicated to helping young people find their voice and share their stories with the world.
Emmett Lee is a nationally awarded and aspiring filmmaker, who wishes to portray his stories on the big screen. He is an incoming freshman at the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Film & Media and minoring in Creative Writing. Emmett has written, directed, and edited all of the films he’s made, and is currently writing his 9th screenplay. He also has extensive experience in Speech and Debate, winning numerous awards across bis four years of bigh school, including a state-qualifying slot in spring of 2026. Emmett has worked as a part of Young Authors' Alliance since its founding, working as a teacher and graphic designer. He previously led the screenwriting portion the screen/playwriting class in the summer of 2024. Emmett is excited to share his knowledge of storytelling with more students, and hopes his experience can inspire more artists in their creative endeavors.