Writing in Italy Tuscany 2024
Tuscany
Sep 26th–Oct 1st, 2024
Sold Out
"An inspiring six-day, five-night writing experience nestled in the heart of Tuscany."
Overview
Wherever you find yourself in your publishing journey, you’re invited to join this once-in-a-lifetime writing experience hosted by New York Times bestselling author of The Program series, Suzanne Young! Experience adventure and retreat in a sprawling Italian villa nestled in the Tuscan hills, just a stone’s throw away from iconic Florence.
Enhance your technical skills and writing prowess with professional workshops, exclusive events, networking opportunities, and time for Q&A all with industry experts. Not only will this experience enhance your craft but it will also feed your creativity.
Tucked away in an atmospheric 16th-century villa, retreat guests will enjoy an all-inclusive experience with breathtaking accommodations, meals with a private chef, and opportunities to soak in the culture with a variety of city tours.
The Experience
The Writing in Italy experience takes place from September 26th–October 1st, 2024, in Tuscany, Italy. This all-inclusive retreat includes your accommodations, airport and planned transfers, three meals per day, as well as a day-trip to Florence and a wine-tasting tour in the Chianti Hills.
The Writing in Italy Tuscany 2024 experience includes:
Five nights and six days of accommodations in a private, historical villa
Transport to and from Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) and planned events
All planned meals
Private chef (dietary restrictions are followed)
Snacks, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and water available
Publishing, screenwriting, and film-making presentations, Q&A, and workshops
Excursions and activities (see details below)
Venue
Set over three floors with impeccable design, the villa boasts 24 rooms along with a spa, restaurant, pool, garden, olive grove, and more. In an elegant and timeless atmosphere, this historic villa is surrounded by tall cypress trees and overlooks vineyards and olive groves that recall the backgrounds and landscapes of Renaissance paintings.
Some of the most famous and beautiful cities in Tuscany including Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca are only a short distance away. Relax with elegant evenings next to the pool or enjoy a glass of wine in the garden surrounded by the scent of roses. End each day with a candlelit family-style dinner in the villa restaurant with traditional Tuscan recipes.
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-venue-villa-il-poggiale-1-1168x649.jpg)
Accommodations
The family villa turned exclusive resort is nestled in the Chianti Valley of Tuscany. Once a bustling home for a growing Italian family, this impeccably preserved and decorated showpiece is now exclusively reserved for the September 2024 Writing in Italy retreat.
Situated on top of a hill with a breathtaking view of the Tuscan countryside, the villa boasts a private spa, restaurant, pool, and olive grove, as well as a library, flower garden, and more. With so many hidden gems on the property, you’ll never grow tired of new things to discover.
This breathtaking villa has 24 rooms and suites over three floors, each with unique designs and antique furnishings. There are different pricing options available based on occupancy and room choice.
Pricing Details
- All prices shown are PER PERSON and reflect the cost of the ENTIRE Writing in Italy experience, including the room itself.
- Reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Payment plans are available.
- A non-refundable $1000 deposit is required to reserve the room.
NOTE: Due to the unique and historic nature of the venue, rooms in the same category are not completely identical to each other. It adds to the charm! The room assigned to you will be in the same style/category as the images below, however the exact layout and decor may vary slightly.
Double Occupancy Rates
For those looking to travel with a friend or partner or for those looking to make new friends, we have shared rooms available! If you already have a roommate in mind, put it in the comments when booking. Otherwise, we’ll help you find a great match.
These shared accommodations vary in size and offer a range of options, including two beds in a single room with a private bathroom or a suite with two sleeping areas and a private bathroom.
Classic Country Room - Contact for pricing & discounts
The double-occupancy Classic Country Rooms range in size 15 to 30 m² and are furnished with period furniture and handcrafted fabrics. Many overlook the rolling hills of Chianti. Large king bed or two single beds.
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/villa-il-poggiale-country-classic-double-alt-1168x649.jpg)
Sold Out
Single Occupancy Rates
For those looking for a relaxing private stay, there are multiple single-room options available. Each room features a large bed and a private bathroom.
Classic Country Room - Contact for pricing & discounts
The single-occupancy Classic Country Rooms range in size 15 to 30 m² and are furnished with period furniture and handcrafted fabrics. Many overlook the rolling hills of Chianti.
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/villa-il-poggiale-country-classic-single-1168x649.jpg)
Sold Out
Faculty
Writing in Italy is proud to welcome distinguished faculty members who range from authors and
agents to screenwriters and film producers. These industry leaders will deliver presentations and participate in a panel discussion followed by a Q&A session. Many of these experts also host workshops for attendees to enhance their crafts with guidance and coaching.
Guests who have already registered for the experience will have the opportunity to book an additional private one-on-one pitch session with faculty. Each session is 20 minutes and costs $75 per faculty member. Space is limited and only available on a first come, first served basis.
We are also proud to provide an experienced author mentor who will host writing sessions
each morning in the villa to help you get the most out of your creative time!
Suzanne Young
Author
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-faculty-suzanne-young.jpg)
Suzanne Young is the New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of The Program series. Originally from New York, Suzanne is a dual US and Italian citizen, currently living in Italy. She has published more than 20 novels for teens, including The Program series, Girls with Sharp Sticks series, Poet Anderson series (co-authored with Tom DeLonge), In Nightfall, and What Stays Buried. Her books are sold in over 15 countries and several of her projects have been optioned for film. Suzanne has 20 years of experience teaching high school English, as well as years working as a marketing manager, specializing in branding.
Suzanne is the host of Writing in Italy! She will personally meet with attendees and deliver a presentation and workshop, focused on maintaining a long-term career in publishing.
Rocky Callen
Author Mentor
Rocky Callen is the author of the YA novel A Breath Too Late, which was named a Kirkus Reviews Best Young Adult Book of the Year and a Chicago Public Library Best Book and was featured in The Mujerista‘s 2020 list of the Ten Best Young Adult Books by Latinx Authors. She is a contributing co-editor for the mental health YA anthology Ab(solutely) Normal: Sixteen Stories that Smash Mental Health Stereotypes (Candlewick). Her latest YA novel, Crashing Into You, is out now. She founded HoldOn2Hope, a project that unites creatives in suicide prevention and mental health awareness. She’s passionate about supporting writers on their creative journeys and is excited to contribute to the Writing in Italy community.
Rocky will host guided writing sessions throughout the retreat and share advice and insight on publishing to help you stay inspired and focused!
Eddie Gamarra
Film & TV
Eddie Gamarra is a media rights specialist who has worked at the intersection of media and publishing for 20+ years. He consults with publishers, book agents, authors & illustrators regarding their media strategy, and also helps film & TV folks break into publishing. Eddie was an Executive Producer of THE MAZE RUNNER trilogy from 20th Century Fox Jerry Spinelli’s STARGIRL on Disney+, and Henry Selick’s stop motion feature with Jordan Peele entitled WENDELL AND WILD for Netflix. Most recently, Eddie served as the VP, Literary Affairs for Paramount Global Kids & Family, and he was also Literary Manager at The Gotham Group, a management & production company. Eddie is on the Advisory Board of Aha Media, a mission- driven media company that creates, develops, and produces original content with emerging talent in underserved communities, focusing on Women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ creators.
Adib Khorram
Author
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-adib-khorram-480x480.jpg)
Adib Khorram is the author of Darius the Great Is Not Okay, which earned the William C. Morris Debut Award, the Asian/Pacific American Award for Young Adult Literature, a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor, and was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Best YA Novels of All Time. His novels Darius the Great Deserves Better, Kiss & Tell, and The Breakup Lists, as well as his picture books Seven Special Somethings: A Nowruz Story and Bijan Always Wins, have garnered critical acclaim, starred reviews, and bestsellers. When he isn’t writing, you can find him playing his Fender Stratocaster, sipping a glass of Grignolino, or searching for the best french fries in Kansas City. (Just kidding. He’s already found them.)
Adib will deliver a presentation and host a workshop titled “Wearing the Inside Out: A Theatrical Look at Character Building.”
Molly O’Neill
Literary Agent
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-faculty-molly-oneill.jpg)
Molly O’Neill is a highly respected agent with Root Literary. She loves the creative process and early-stage project development, is invigorated by business strategy and entrepreneurial thinking, and is fascinated by the intersections of creativity, commerce, innovation, storytelling, and community. Over the course of twenty-one years in publishing, she has worked as a marketing expert, a publishing- adjacent start-up executive, and as an editor and agent of award- winners, #1 New York Times bestsellers, and publishing phenomenons; all of these skills now power her expertise as a literary agent and advocate for her clients and their careers. Her client list includes both emerging and established authors, illustrators, and graphic novelists.
Molly will deliver a presentation, as well as host an informative and inspiring workshop! Learn more about her at mollyoneillbooks.com.
Mark Morgan
Film & TV
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-faculty-mark-morgan-480x480.jpg)
Mark Morgan is a Latinx film and TV producer best known for his work on projects such as The Twilight Saga film series and Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. Mark has decades of experience bringing books to film across multiple genres and platforms. He has served as Executive VP, CEO, and co-founder at multiple studios, as well as produced and executive produced over 30 films and television series. In his long career, he has worked with Paramount, Sony, Disney, Universal, Amblin, and more. Mark is the CEO and founder of Diablo Entertainment and is currently on the lookout for thrilling projects to bring to studios.
Mark will be hosting a workshop at the Tuscany retreat on the types of stories he and his team are looking for, as well as tips on what to expect when your work is adapted for screen.
Michael Strother
Editor
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-faculty-michael-strother-480x480.jpeg)
Writing in Italy is proud to welcome back Michael Strother! Michael has worked as an editor for major publishing houses such as Simon & Schuster, Hachette, and HarperCollins. As virtual faculty, Michael will provide complimentary 10-page critiques to all Writing in Italy Tuscany attendees! Pages must be submitted by September 1st to receive feedback via email by September 28th, 2024.
Schedule
Thursday - September 26th
3:00pm
- 5:00pm
:
Meet and Greet
Join Writing in Italy guests and faculty for a casual meet and greet with drinks and small bites.
7:00pm
:
Welcome Dinner
Welcome dinner with retreat guests, faculty, and organizers.
Friday - September 27th
8:00am
:
Breakfast
Italian-style breakfast served daily.
10:00am
- 12:00pm
:
Faculty Presentations
Publishing presentations to discuss publishing, screenwriting, and filmmaking.
12:00pm
:
Lunch With a View
2:00pm
- 5:00pm
:
Faculty Panels and Q&A
7:00pm
:
Dinner and Networking Time
Dinner with other retreat guests in villa restaurant.
Saturday - September 28th
8:00am
:
Breakfast
Italian-style breakfast served daily.
9:30am
:
Travel to Florence
10:00am
- 4:00pm
:
Explore Firenze
Discover all the exciting venues and incredible art in Florence.
7:00pm
:
Dinner and Networking Time
Dinner with other retreat guests in villa restaurant.
Sunday - September 29th
8:00am
:
Breakfast
Italian-style breakfast served daily.
10:00am
- 12:00pm
:
Guided Writing Sessions
Writing session with author mentor in inspiring villa location.
12:00pm
:
Lunch
2:00pm
- 5:00pm
:
Workshops 1 & 2
Faculty-led small group workshops.
7:00pm
:
Pizza Dinner
Villa experience with guests and faculty.
9:00pm
:
After Party at the Pool
Villa experience with guests and faculty.
Monday - September 30th
8:00am
:
Breakfast
Italian-style breakfast served daily.
9:30am
- 11:00am
:
Guided Writing Sessions
Writing session with author mentor in inspiring villa location.
12:00pm
- 4:00pm
:
A Taste of Chianti
Visit the Chianti region and experience wine and food tastings in a beautiful setting.
7:00pm
:
Storytellers Farewell Dinner
Special event in magical setting.
Tuesday - October 1st
8:00am
:
Breakfast
Italian-style breakfast served daily.
10:00am
- 11:00am
:
Travel to Florence Airport
Activities
Day trip to Florence
Included
The group will take a shuttle 20 minutes away to the center of Florence, Italy. Iconic, breathtaking, and mesmerizing—Florence was at the center of the Renaissance. On this self-guided afternoon, you can make reservations to see the David, tour the Duomo, or simply wander and get lost in this amazing city. One thing is for sure—you will be inspired.
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-experience-florence-960x640.jpg)
Chianti wine-tasting event
Included
Along with the Writing in Italy faculty, tour the Chianti region and visit a local winery to taste the famous Chianti Classico. While there, you’ll also tour the vineyards and take part in an excellent Tuscan lunch.
![[object Object]](https://writinginitaly.com/wp-content/uploads/writing-in-italy-retreat-experience-chianti-960x650.png)
Add-on Experiences & Activities
The optional activities below are available to purchase after your booking is confirmed.
On-site private spa with massages and other services
Vespa or bike tour through the Tuscan hills
Cooking class with local Italian chef
Hot air balloon ride
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have the opportunity to connect with the faculty members?
Yes! After registering for the experience, you will have the opportunity to book an additional private one-on-one pitch session with faculty. Each session is 20 minutes and costs $75 per faculty member. Space is limited and only available on a first come, first served basis.
Will I have my own room?
You can choose from single or double occupancy room options! Please see the Accommodations details for specific pricing.
Will I receive a refund if I need to cancel my reservation?
We understand that emergency situations can arise, so please contact us in the event that you need to cancel, and we’ll do what we can to accommodate. Please note, however, there is a $1,000 non-refundable deposit required to reserve a room.
Are spa experiences included in the registration cost?
The on-site spa experience is available as an optional add-on after registration. Spots are available on a first come, first served basis.
Will I have the opportunity to network and connect with other guests?
Yes! One of the main pillars of this truly magical experience is connection with fellow creatives. Through shared growth experiences, family dinners, travel excursions, and dedicated networking time, you’ll have the opportunity to create friendships and connections you never knew you needed!
Are meals included in the registration cost?
Yes! Planned meals with a private chef who accommodates dietary restrictions, snacks, coffee, and non-alcoholic beverages are included.
What professional items should I bring with me to the experience?
You should bring a laptop or notebook for writing and taking notes, as well as a phone with an international plan or day pass for easy communication.
Will I need to arrange my own transportation once I arrive?
No, we’ve got you covered. Once you arrive at Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), transportation will be provided to and from the airport and all planned activities.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes! Planned meals with a private chef along with snacks, coffee, and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Is alcohol included in the meals and registration cost?
Unless otherwise noted, all alcoholic beverages will be at the expense of the guest.
How many sessions take place throughout the experience?
There are (6) faculty-led workshops and writing sessions throughout the experience, not including optional one-on-one pitch sessions with faculty.
Are the day trips and excursions included in the registration cost?
Several of them are included! Please see the Activities details for information on included day trips and experiences.
Do you provide a packing list?
We do not provide a formal packing list; however, we encourage guests to pack according to the weather at that time of the year. We want you to feel comfortable and inspired as you relax and revive your creativity in historic and beautiful Italy.
What is the overall cost of the experience?
The final cost of the trip varies based on the experiences you choose and the room you select during registration. Please see the Accommodations details for pricing information
What topics will be covered during the experience?
We cover a variety of topics on writing, publishing, and film; the specific topics are determined based on the faculty members at each experience. Session information can be found in the Schedule details.
Will the sessions be recorded for later review?
Retreats are designed as an entire, cohesive experience to maximize the value of every session. All sessions are hosted live and are not recorded for later viewing.