The novel generator with Isle was an incredible resource that allowed for a seemingly impossible goal to feel achievable. The structure, tone, and peers of the class created an enriching sense of community. I looked forward to each week's class, and enjoyed engaging with everyone's work. Isle's feedback and support have been invaluable.

-Kelly, former student

I joined the novel generator with no MFA, but a spirit of commitment to my novel and to learning how to build a routine around novel-writing. Isle was a tremendously generous teacher and mentor throughout this process, and they took the time to get to know me and my goals. They continuously went above and beyond to work directly with my needs to get what I needed out of this year. I was able to write two drafts of my novel and get tremendously helpful feedback in both group and individual settings. I continue to work on and develop my novel to this day using everything I learned from Isle's workshop, and because of this, I have gone on to win national level awards and gain spots in prestigious writing conferences. I learned who I am as a writer, with Isle's guidance, and I also explored what the literary life really means to me. I am forever grateful I had this experience. I have left with a new learning ethos, several friends, a novel draft, and a lifelong mentor in Isle.

-Swati, former student

Isle was an invaluable guide throughout my year-long journey in the First Novel Generator Workshop. Unlike other workshops, where eccentricities can often be stifled, Isle approached my project on its own terms and encouraged my experimentation. Their feedback helped me refine my vision while staying true to my voice. Isle’s expertise in contemporary literature not only helped me see how my novel fit within certain literary traditions but also challenged me to build upon these influences, inspiring me to innovate in ways I hadn’t considered. The workshop covered plot, structure, tone, and style with precision, and Isle’s feedback always explained why something worked or didn’t and then offered actionable insights. By the end of the year, I finished a first draft and gained a much deeper understanding of craft. I highly recommend Isle and this workshop to any writer looking to grow!

-Evander, former student

Isle's class gave me the entire foundation for my manuscript. From deeply relevant readings to in-class generative exercises to classmate relationships that have lasted long after the course, the time I spent every week with Isle, other writers, and my own writing, allowed me to complete multiple drafts of a novel and chart out a path toward final polish with confidence. I'm grateful for the time, attention, and community Isle and the course provided for me and my work.

-Rebecca, former student

Isle McElroy's First Novel Generator is as challenging as it is rewarding. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the process of creating a novel, and to develop one's own project in a supportive and encouraging environment. Under Isle's leadership, everyone's work is treated with care and respect making it an enriching and productive experience. Isle is truly an inspired and inspiring teacher.

-Eileen, former student

Class with Isle was fantastic, it was the highlight of my year. They are a thoughtful, engaged reader and an excellent teacher. They clearly articulated certain patterns and tendencies in my writing I could not see for myself, and generated lively discussion around all of our manuscripts. I recommend this class to anyone looking for any of the following: writing accountability, animated discussion, and significant feedback from a committed group of writers and a brilliant teacher.

-Eve, former student