First Things First: Writing Workshop with Constance Matsumoto
Featured Book
Fact & Fiction
This simple and encouraging guide offers a relatable story map for writers who are sitting on a historical fiction story but don't know where to start. Constance Hays Matsumoto was that person - until she wasn't. With no MFA, no background in creative writing, not even a journal to her name, she wrote Of White Ashes, an award-winning novel inspired by her family's remarkable World War II stories. With delightful candor, Connie shares how she embraced novel writing by learning the craft, creating helpful techniques, and asking repeatedly, "Wait, how do you do that?" Offering personal story, practical writing advice, visuals, and a healthy dose of humility, Connie shows how she turned confusion into confidence and how you can, too. Your story and voice matter. Let's dive in, get messy, and bring the novel only you can write to life
This book will be available for purchase at the event.
About This Event
The Doylestown Bookshop is excited to welcome author Constance Hays Matsumoto for a writing workshop on Monday, September 21st, 2026, at 6:30 pm.
This workshop requires tickets. Each ticket includes admission for one and a paperback copy of Fact & Fiction.
Space is limited. If you're unable to attend the workshop, we will hold your books for you for up to two weeks. Any books that have not been picked up or arranged to be shipped by the two-week mark will be donated.
Writing a Novel Inspired by Family and History: First Things First
Join Delaware-based author Constance Hays Matsumoto for an engaging workshop on turning family stories and historical research into compelling creative work. Drawing on the unexpected journey behind her award-winning historical novel, Of White Ashes, and the insights from her new book, Fact & Fiction: How to Write a Novel Inspired by Family and History, Matsumoto offers practical guidance for writers who aspire to write a book about history but aren't sure where to begin.
Whether you are an aspiring novelist, a family historian, or simply carrying a story you feel compelled to write, you'll leave with fresh inspiration, greater clarity, and concrete steps for bringing your project to life.
Featured Author
Constance Hays Matsumoto
Constance Hays Matsumoto is the author of the award-winning historical novel, Of White Ashes and her new nonfiction, Fact & Fiction: How to Write a Novel Inspired by Family and History. Connie earned her B.A. from Notre Dame of MD University and M.S. from Johns Hopkins University. She is an engaged literary citizen and serves as the President of the Women’s National Book Association Mid-Atlantic Chapter and is a member of the Authors Guild, Eastern Shore Writers' Association, and Historical Novel Society. Previously, Connie served on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Writers' Association and as President of the Baltimore Chapter. www.MatsumotoBooks.com
About the Venue
The Doylestown Bookshop
"The Doylestown and Lahaska Bookshops are locally owned and operated bookstores dedicated to preserving the heritage and traditions of independent bookstore ideals. Since opening our doors in downtown Doylestown in 1998, we have offered our customers an alternative to the ordinary. We carry an extensive inventory of new books, from classic literature to current bestsellers, and a curated selection of gifts, cards, toys and much more. Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and looking forward to helping you choose the perfect book for you or your family. Both bookstores were sold again in September 2023 to long-time Bucks County residents and business owners Lauren & Damian Ford. We opened our second store, the Lahaska Bookshop, in September 2017. The Lahaska Bookshop is located in Peddler's Village and is dedicated to providing the same customer service and wide selection of books that the Doylestown Bookshop provides.
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