Storytelling in Science: A Writing Workshop with Anne Shibata Casselman

What if your research did more than convey facts, but could move people? Join journalist Anne Shibata Casselman for a one-of-a-kind writing workshop that invites researchers to explore how storytelling can bring science to life on the page.

To help uncover the essential message you want to convey, we’ll begin by distilling your research into a single haiku — 17 evocative syllables to focus one's aim. Next, you’ll learn how to strengthen the salience of your writing through narrative elements and metaphors, and how to think holistically about your work.

Participants are encouraged to bring small props from their scientific world, along with books or articles that represent their gold standard in science writing.

This workshop is designed for anyone interested in developing their non-fiction skills in a fun, low-pressure environment. No previous experience is required!

To ensure event attendance and to help us cover costs, this event is $10. Please RSVP here to reserve your spot. If you are experiencing barriers to attend, please reach out over email. We’re happy to provide you with one of our scholarship spots.

More about the facilitator: Anne Shibata Casselman reports science, environment and public interest stories for outlets like Maclean’s, The Walrus, National Geographic, Scientific American, Canadian Geographic, The Globe and Mail, Discover magazine among others. Her piece Canada in the Year 2060 received the Gold Medal for long-form feature writing at the National Magazine Awards. Casselman has been a journalism fellow of the Marine Biological Laboratory’s Logan Science Journalism program in Wood’s Hole, Massachusetts; IJNR’s Kalamazoo River Institute fellowship in Michigan; and the COMPASS Journalism Fellowship in Toronto. She has a BSc. in Zoology from the University of Toronto and a Masters in Science Communication from Imperial College, London. She lives in Vancouver, Canada and was Upstart & Crow's 2025 non-fiction resident.

More about Upstart & Crow:

Upstart & Crow is a not-for-profit creative studio and literary incubator that champions writers, readers and stories, and the role they play in shaping our lives. We develop original programs, support artists and revel in creative projects focused on Literature In Translation / Climate Solutions / Poetry / Civic Dialogue / Community & Skills Building … all with the aim of elevating the role of literature and storytelling in our lives. Find us on Granville Island, Gibsons and online at upstartandcrow.com.

Accessibility:

The main studio of our shop is accessible for folks with mobility aids. There is a washroom on the main floor available for attendees.

Questions: hello[at]upstartandcrow.com.