Education History
Ottawa Writing School: Writing program x 4 years.
University of Waterloo: Environmental Science
University of Ottawa: Baccalaureate in Science, 1986
Teaching History
Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.
Deborah developed and taught the following courses:
Fiction Writing—The Basics and Beyond (ages 11-14)
Learn the basics of story writing from an author—idea, setting, character, plot, dialogue, conflict, etc.—while developing your own unique voice. Complete a story or the beginning of a novel with step-by-step guidance. Introduction to critiquing/editing.
Students will examine effective dialogue, develop plot outlines and character sketches, write 5 to10 pages of a story or complete two scenes of a longer work. Publish 1 to 2 pages in a class anthology.
A Novel Idea (Adult)― Fiction Writing.
Sharpen your writing skills and learn how to submit your manuscripts for publication. The course explores all aspects of basic writing: brainstorming, character, plot, setting, dialogue, editing/revision, queries and synopses. Course structure: lecture and critique.
“Editing is a talent Deborah Jackson takes seriously, but she is never harsh. Not only are her critiques clear and concise, she is very thorough and supportive. As a former student of her creative writing course, Deborah opened my eyes to the many pitfalls of the craft and inspired me to complete my first novel. She is at the top of my list for editors."
Jackie Beingessner
A Novel Idea II (Adult)― Fiction Writing.
A Novel Idea I recommended prior to taking this course. Improve writing skills with intensive critique sessions/feedback. Writing exercises focus on character development, setting, dialogue, POV, fresh language, show vs. tell, active vs. passive writing skills.
Novel Studies
Deborah developed reading group guides and activities for elementary school students. A number of books have been used in schools for novel studies and literature circles.
Memberships
Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
SF Canada
River Writers Critique Group (SCBWI)—from 2003
Articles and reviews have appeared in The Ottawa Citizen, The Ottawa Sun, MORE Magazine, The RT Bookclub Magazine, The Albuquerque Alibi, SF Site, Neo-opsis Science Fiction Magazine and many more. The Time Meddlers series is recommended in the Canadian Teacher Magazine and Children's Literature. Ice Tomb was an Editor's Pick in The Ottawa Citizen and a Top Pick in the RT Bookclub Magazine.