1202 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85013
602–285–7500

A Class Full of Suspense: Mystery Writers Wanted

By: Christy Skeen

From suspense to crime detection, a unique creative writing course at Phoenix
College will reveal the basics of writing a captivating mystery story. Students
wishing to uncover the elements and techniques of this particular genre of writing
are encouraged to register for Writing the Mystery Story (CRW 242 AL).

The class begins Thursday, Jan. 23. It meets every Thursday from 6 p.m. to
8:40 p.m.

Participants will observe the works and techniques of Edgar Allan Poe, Raymond
Chandler, Dashiell Hammett and others to demonstrate the development of the
mystery story from the Victorian detective to the modern detective.

"This class allows students to study techniques such as creating suspense,
creating clues and hiding them in the story, incorporating tension and conflict and
creating "Red Herrings" – false leads or clues," said Creative Writing instructor,
Kate Cross.

The class will also incorporate a panel discussion with readers from the Mystery
Lover’s Club and special guest, Kim Garza, Collection Management Librarian at
the Tempe Public Library. Garza has been running the Mystery Lover’s Club
book discussion group at the library since Fall of 1990. She will discuss the
history of detective fiction and present various published works.

For more information, please call (602) 285-7468.