Tim Cummings

Tim Cummings, M.F.A., author of the  award-winning coming-of-age novel, Alice the Cat, and the forthcoming YA novel, The Lightning People Play, arriving summer 2025. Mr. Cummings’ recent publications include F(r)iction, Scare Street, Lunch Ticket, From Whispers to Roars, Drunk Monkeys, Hare’s Paw, Lit Angels and Critical Read/RAFT, for which he won the ‘Origins’ contest. 

Instructor Statement: Let’s explore the mystery and magic inherent in these magnificent books and stories geared toward younger readers. I like to call them ‘younger minds’ actually, because readers of all ages delve deeply into children’s literature, whether chapter books, middle grade, young adult or new adult. I believe everyone has a core-story, that one book—or film, or visual, or song—that entered your soul at some point, usually when you were younger, from which, I believe, all other stories spring. Once tapped into, it’s a strong place to start writing from, an energy that you can surf like a wave. We will utilize writing exercises, discussions, and other unique curiosities to coax it out. I am here to offer safe, fun, productive spaces for a multitude of writerly voices, existences, identities and intentions. I long to share the endless swarm of information that perpetually buzzes in my head when it comes to story, structure, voice, style, tone, theme, and style. These qualities jolt like Frankenstein’s lightning when applied to books and stories for young readers/young minds. It's time to play. Let’s wake the monster. 

Our Students Say It Best!  "Tim was extremely engaging, kind, fun, and rigorous as an instructor. Tim's love of writing and love of middle grade fiction is clearly evident. He is very invested in each student's journey and very supportive of their writing process. He provided detailed feedback and led a stimulating conversations. I truly looked forward to class each week."   - Writers’ Program Student