BOOKCAMP PROGRAMS

2026 updates

6.02.26

The Book Coaching and Workshop programs are full for 2026! There are still a few spots left in the Retreat program.

6.21.26

Campers arrive for Bookcamp -- welcome!

6.27.26

Time to say goodbye until next year!

THREE PROGRAMS

Workshop, Retreat, and Coaching

The Workshop Program is a six-day immersion program with daily professional instruction, presentations, conversations with visiting agents and editors, and plenty of time to practice your craft.

The Retreat Program offers six days to write, connect with other writers, network with industry professionals, attend presentations, brainstorm and problem solve with a writing mentor.

The Coaching Program is six days of daily one-on-one personalized consultations with a multi-genre editor, a book coach who has read and critiqued your entire work-in-progress, and additional programming.

WORKSHOP PROGRAM DETAILS

The Workshop program offers two simultaneous genre tracks, and you get to pick one in which to enroll: the All-Genre track for writers of reality-based genres -- such as mainstream, literary fiction, mystery, historical fiction, romance, and similar genres -- and the Speculative Fiction track for writers of science fiction, fantasy, paranormal, horror, and related genres. Choose the genre track that best fits your work in progress.

Our staff of professional authors, editors, and literary agents will read and critique your opening pages prior to Bookcamp. During your stay, you’ll have one-on-one meetings with staff to discuss your work-in-progress, ask questions, and find out what works and what can be improved. You'll attend on craft and technique as well as publishing and insider advice on writing. Toward the end of the week, you’ll have a chance to pitch your novel to our guest agents and editors. Whether you're working on your first novel, are an indie author publishing your own work, or are an established writer looking for someone to bounce ideas off of, the Workshop program can help you improve your manuscript by providing timely advice.

Attendance is limited to 15 accepted writers for each genre track.

RETREAT PROGRAM DETAILS

The Writing Retreat offers either an All-Genre or a Speculative Fiction track for your six days of personal writing time. Use it to develop a story idea, crank up the word count, meet a deadline, or edit and polish your work before publication. In addition, you’ll have access to the retreat mentor in your chosen genre track, an award-winning novelist or literary agent who can answer your questions, brainstorm ideas, help you unravel knotty plot problems, and gently encourage you to stay focused on your WIP. Lastly, you can add on the option to submit a query letter for evaluation in our slush pile discussion, attend four Friday morning agent seminars, and schedule up to four 15-minute agent practice pitches Friday afternoon.

The Writing Retreat is less regimented and open to all writers in any genre or form. Surround yourself with fellow writers in this warm, welcoming, and creative environment.

The number of accepted participants is limited based on room availability.

COACHING PROGRAM DETAILS

The Book Coach Program is intended for experienced writers looking for a thorough, developmental review of their work before they submit their manuscripts to publishers and literary agents. This is a chance to work one on one with someone who has read and critiqued your completed or nearly complete WIP. The experience includes access to several presentations on writing and publishing and personal writing time, all while surrounded by professional writers, editors, and agents. The program is limited to 5 writers per track, and applications are accepted based on the decisions of Novel Bookcamp staff with final approval by the Book Coach. The Book Coach is a published multi-genre novelist with experience as an editor, publisher, and/or writing/book adviser.

Attendance is limited to 5 accepted writers in each genre.

PROGRAM PRICING

Registration fee includes private room with private bathroom, 3 meals per day, special events, instruction, and coaching - all within your chosen program and genre track.

WORKSHOP

RETREAT

BOOK COACH

The Alumni and Friends Discount is $90. To be eligible, you must have attended Novel Bookcamp at least once or be a member in good standing in one of our Supportive Friend organizations. Contact us for special pricing for commuters that includes meals but no lodging. Payment schedules can also be arranged. Contact us for details.

REGISTRATION

Apply online for the program of your choice. If accepted, you will be asked to make a deposit of $100 (or pay in full,) and we will contact you with next steps.

Here is what you’ll need to apply:

WORKSHOP APPLICATION

Update (June 2, 2026:) The Workshop program is full for 2026! Please stay in touch for 2027.

The first three pages of your work-in-progress
A brief bio outlining your writing goals, background, and/or education (100 to 150 words)
A paragraph telling us how far along your WIP is, its genre, and estimated word count.

If you are approved, you will be asked to submit the following 5 items before May 15, 2026:

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.
A first-draft query letter with a marketing pitch for your book to an agent or publisher. This does not have to be perfect.
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.
The title and genre of your book, word length (actual or projected) and the status of your book (such as outline only, mid-first draft, in final edit phase, etc.) You also need to provide your full name, contact info (email, address, and phone number.)
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

BOOK COACH APPLICATION

Update (June 2, 2026:) The Book Coaching program is full for 2026! Please stay in touch for 2027.

A first-draft query Letter to an anonymous Literary Agent or Publisher.
The first chapter from the Manuscript you intend to submit to the Book Coach for review.
A complete 1-2-page synopsis of your Manuscript, single-spaced including a comprehensive plot summary and an ending.
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.

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.

APPLY NOW

SIENA RETREAT CENTER

Nestled on the shore of beautiful Lake Michigan, the Siena Retreat Center offers a peaceful haven for writers. It's also easily accessible, located less than an hour north of Chicago and just 30 minutes south of Milwaukee. Guest rooms are intentionally simple and uncluttered with comfortable beds, quality linens, a private bath, and a small workspace designed to help you focus on your writing without distractions. Enjoy meals in the welcoming cafeteria, which provides all-day beverages and breakfast, and catered lunch and dinner options plus accommodations for any dietary needs. A shared kitchen is also available for guest use. Throughout the center, you’ll find bright, open spaces, quiet nooks, and scenic outdoor areas perfect for reflection or writing by the water. The serene grounds invite you to unwind with a wooded hike or a peaceful lakeside stroll.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much independent time will I have to work on my writing?

This depends on the program you've chosen. Writers in the Workshop program will spend most of the day in seminars taught by our instructors. There will be some breaks in between sessions and meals, so you're welcome to make the most of that time if you want. Those in the Book Coach and Retreat programs will have more flexibility with their schedules with large chunks of time that you can structure however you want, whether it's to work on writing, take a walk around the lake for inspiration, meet with a writing friend for a chat, or even take a nap.

How many people are accepted into each program?

What happens after I'm accepted? What if I'm not accepted?

If you're accepted, congratulations! You're about to embark on an unforgettable week of craft, camaraderie, and conversation. Director Dave Rank will be in touch personally with next steps on submitting your manuscript for evaluation as well as information on how your specific program will run during Bookcamp and payment.

If you're not accepted, please don't lose heart. This is not a comment on your writing. The biggest reason for not getting into Bookcamp is most likely that the programs full. The Siena Retreat Center is a beautiful location and is often in demand by other groups in addition to Bookcamp. While we're there, we usually take most of the rooms but often there are other smaller gatherings not affiliated with Bookcamp at Siena. The retreat center is gracious in giving us as many rooms as possible, and we're always careful to take their consideration seriously. So keep Bookcamp on your radar for next year, and be sure to send in your materials as soon as the application opens.

How do I get there? Is there transportation? Is onsite parking available?

The Siena Retreat Center is in Racine, Wisconsin, on the shores of stunning Lake Michigan. Be sure to visit the center's website for driving directions as well as how to get there from the closest airports -- Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and Midway Airport and Milwaukee's Mitchell International Airport. There is ample parking onsite.

If you have questions about transportation, especially if it's getting from an airport to Bookcamp, please reach out to our director, Dave Rank, at director@novelbookcamp.org.

What should I bring with me?

Please bring all items you would need for a week away from home -- the necessary clothing, toiletries, and other personal items you use on a daily basis as well as any medications you take. Each room is well equipped with outlets for charging devices, so don't forget your chargers. Also, if you prefer to listen to music while you write, please consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones to maintain the quiet atmosphere of the retreat center. You may bring laptops/tablets and other devices for writing. If you've wanted to catch up on some personal reading, consider bringing a book or ebook device.

All linens and towels will be made available by Siena, and there are several extras available if needed. Please note, there is no daily room cleaning provided so take care of your space during the week.

BOOKCAMP PROGRAMS

A ONE WEEK writing oasis ON LAKE MICHIGAN

JUNE 21 - 27, 2026

2026 updates

6.02.26

6.21.26

6.27.26

THREE PROGRAMS

Workshop, Retreat, and Coaching

WORKSHOP PROGRAM DETAILS

RETREAT PROGRAM DETAILS

COACHING PROGRAM DETAILS

PROGRAM PRICING

Registration fee includes private room with private bathroom, 3 meals per day, special events, instruction, and coaching - all within your chosen program and genre track.

REGISTRATION

Apply online for the program of your choice. If accepted, you will be asked to make a deposit of $100 (or pay in full,) and we will contact you with next steps.

WORKSHOP APPLICATION

WRITING RETREAT APPLICATION

BOOK COACH APPLICATION

SIENA RETREAT CENTER

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much independent time will I have to work on my writing?

How many people are accepted into each program?

What happens after I'm accepted? What if I'm not accepted?

How do I get there? Is there transportation? Is onsite parking available?

What should I bring with me?

Are payment plans or scholarships available?

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

BOOKCAMP PROGRAMS

A ONE WEEK writing oasis ON LAKE MICHIGAN

JUNE 21 - 27, 2026

SECTION BREAK - WORKSHOP

SECTION BREAK - RETREAT

SECTION BREAK - COACHING

2026 updates

6.02.26

6.21.26

6.27.26

THREE PROGRAMS

Workshop, Retreat, and Coaching

WORKSHOP PROGRAM DETAILS

RETREAT PROGRAM DETAILS

COACHING PROGRAM DETAILS

PROGRAM PRICING

Registration fee includes private room with private bathroom, 3 meals per day, special events, instruction, and coaching - all within your chosen program and genre track.

REGISTRATION

Apply online for the program of your choice. If accepted, you will be asked to make a deposit of $100 (or pay in full,) and we will contact you with next steps.

WORKSHOP APPLICATION

WRITING RETREAT APPLICATION

BOOK COACH APPLICATION

SIENA RETREAT CENTER

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much independent time will I have to work on my writing?

How many people are accepted into each program?

What happens after I'm accepted? What if I'm not accepted?

How do I get there? Is there transportation? Is onsite parking available?

What should I bring with me?

Are payment plans or scholarships available?