NOVEL BOOKCAMP FEES & ADMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Whether you’re starting out on the journey to craft a book, nearly done with your first draft, or preparing that final edit, the Bookcamp, Writing Retreat, or Book Coach programs can help you meet your writing goals.
The cost for any Novel Bookcamp Program is less than you’d pay for a week-long, all-inclusive vacation. One registration fee includes room with private bathroom, meals, special events, instruction, and coaching. The camaraderie and friendship you’ll develop with fellow writers are, of course, free. Flexible payment timetables, early registration discounts, and a variety of program options make Novel Bookcamp an excellent investment in your writing career.
If you have questions, email Dave Rank director@novelbookcamp.org
If you would like to speak to an alum, email Jennifer Rupp at jrupp25@gmail.com
Important Deadlines
Deadline for Early Bird Pricing: Payment in full: December 31, 2024
Deadline for Bookcamp or Writing Retreat Application: May 15, 2025
Deadline for Book Coach Application & Registration: May 1, 2025
Deadline for Submitting Bookcamp or Retreat Registration Materials: May 20, 2025
PRICING
Registration price covers Private Room/Private Bathroom, 3 Meals a Day, and all scheduled activities in your chosen program and Genre Track. Commuter prices include meals but not the room.
If you want to pay with a Credit Card, let us know and we will email you a PayPal Invoice.
For the Early Bird Discount ($90,) you must pay in full by December 31, 2024 (Registration materials can be submitted by May 15, 2025). Commuter pricing is not eligible for Early Bird Discount.
For the Check Discount, make check to: Novel Bookcamp and mail to: Novel Bookcamp, c/o Dave Rank, 831 S. Seventh Ave., West Bend, WI 53095.
For Alumni or Friends Discount, you must have attended Novel Bookcamp at least once or be a member in good standing at one of our four Supportive Friend organizations listed below. The Book Coach program is not eligible for the Alumni/Friends Discount.
ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES
For All-Genre or Speculative Fiction Genre Tracts
Bookcamp Application:
To apply for either Bookcamp, send your application packet via email to Dave Rank, Bookcamp Director director@novelbookcamp.org. The application packet must include these 3 items:
1. The first three pages of your work-in-progress;
2. A brief bio outlining your writing goals, background and/or education;
3. A paragraph telling us how far along your WIP is, its genre, and estimated word count.
When received, your application package will be read and you will be notified of acceptance into the Novel Bookcamp within five working days.
When accepted, you will be asked to make a deposit of $100 or payment in full by credit card or check. If you need a payment schedule, we can work that out.
Once you’ve been accepted into Bookcamp, please send the following 5 items via email to Dave Rank at director@novelbookcamp.org on or before May 15, 2024. These should be from the manuscript you plan to work on at camp. This gives your instructors time to read and critique your work before we get together in person.
1. The first 5,000 words or 3 chapters, whichever comes first, of your manuscript. If you are in the initial story development phase of your WIP, samples of previous work will suffice. Manuscript pages should be double-spaced.
2. A first draft query letter with a marketing pitch for your book to an agent or publisher. This does not have to be perfect.
3. A synopsis of your book, no more than two pages, single-spaced. Include a plot summary with an ending. Again, this does not have to be perfect.
4. The title and genre of your book, word length (actual or projected), the status of your book (outline only, mid-first draft, in final edit phase, etc.); your background information: full name, contact info (email, address, and phone number), and a brief bio paragraph (100-150 words) centered on your writing background.
5. Mention any specific area of your book you want assistance on (such as improving the plot, developing subplots, adding depth to characters, etc.).
Writing Retreat Application:
The number of Retreat participants will be limited based on available rooms so it’s best to apply early.
1. Email Director Dave Rank, director@novelbookcamp. org, with your request to apply. Dave will send an invoice for a deposit of $100 or payment in full by credit card or by check. If you need a payment schedule, we can work that out.
2. Send an email with a 300-word or less description of the work-in-progress you will bring to the Writing Retreat with your goals for the week (number of pages or words written, pages edited, outlining, etc.); a brief bio on your writing background and career goal.
Book Coach Program Application:
Book Coach participation is limited to 5 total writers so it’s best to apply early. Your application should include:
1. A first-draft query Letter to an anonymous Literary Agent or Publisher.
2. The first chapter from the Manuscript you intend to submit to the Book Coach for review.
3. A complete 1-2-page synopsis of your Manuscript, single-spaced including a comprehensive plot summary and an ending.
4. The specific areas/topics you want to focus on during the week (ex: dialogue, plot, characterization, etc.).
Combine the above four items into one attached document in the order presented and email to Dave Rank at director@novelbookcamp.org. You will be notified of your acceptance within 6 working days. If accepted you will receive information on submitting your manuscript and the required fee payment schedule.