The story of your life – biographical writing with Judith Koelemeijer
The story of your life – biographical writing with Judith Koelemeijer
(language: Dutch)
march 28th – April 4th 2025
Maybe you’ve been dreaming about it for a while. Finally writing the story of your own life. Researching your family history and publishing it in a beautiful book, whether through traditional or self-publishing. Or telling the extraordinary life story of someone you know – or perhaps someone you don’t know, but whose story you’re eager to learn. Then this course on biographical writing is perfect for you!
Under the guidance of bestselling author Judith Koelemeijer, you’ll immerse yourself for a week in all aspects of writing a true-life story. From conducting research to finding the right narrative form.
Each morning, Judith will teach various writing techniques. In the afternoons, in the nurturing environment of the quinta, you can work on short assignments. On each piece you write, you’ll receive personal feedback from Judith, allowing you to make significant progress with your writing project in just one week.
About Judith Koelemeijer
Judith Koelemeijer is the author of literary non-fiction. She wrote a family history, “Het Zwijgen van Maria Zachea” (2001), which was awarded the NS Publieksprijs and the Gouden Ezelsoor/best-selling literary debut. This was followed by the remarkable life story of Anna Boom (2008) and the autobiographical “Hemelvaart” (2013), about the death of a childhood friend on a Greek island. In 2022, she published the highly acclaimed biography of Etty Hillesum.
The Retreat
Surrounded by an avocado plantation and a vineyard, our historic farmhouse offers the ideal residence to write with utmost concentration and in complete tranquillity. Home away from home you can allow your imagination to flourish. You start your day with a healthy breakfast featuring locally sourced products and end the evening with a delicious dinner prepared by our skilled Portuguese chef, showcasing the flavors of the region. Lunch is at your own leisure. The manager of the quinta is happy to arrange reservations and transportation upon request. We would also like to assist you with renting a bike. In free hours you can explore the breathtaking Ria Formosa, where scenic walks and cycling trails offer moments of relaxation amidst stunning views.
This retreat has a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants.
Program
8:00 – 10:00 breakfast
10:00 – 11:30 lessons biographical writing by Judith Koelemeijer
Lunch is at own leisure, upon request the quinta arranges reservations and transportation.
We are also happy to help with renting an (electric) bike or other activities (golf, yoga, stand up paddling, horse back riding.)
In the afternoon there will be time for writing assignments, personal feedback from Judith and for relaxation.
19:00: Dinner at the quinta (or in restaurant) by local chef
More detailed program soon to follow
Prices
Book before the first of December 2024, to take advantage
of the early bird discount:
Casa da Eira: 2.395 euro
Casa das Flores: 2.395 euro
Casa Celeiro: 2.470 euro
Casa Grande: 2.545 euro
Casa Da Avó: 2.545 euro
After the first of December, 2024, the following prices apply:
Casa da Eira: 2.670 euro
Casa das Flores: 2.670 euro
Casa Celeiro: 2.745 euro
Casa Grande: 2.820 euro
Casa Da Avó: 2.820 euro
If you share a room with someone, you will receive a discount of 400 euros per room.
Included in Price
Everyday class biographical writing by Judith Koelemeijer
Course reader
Personal feedback on writing assignments
Breakfast and dinner
Seven nights of accommodation
cancellation policy
For cancellations made before February 15, 2025, a full refund of the total amount (minus a 3% administrative fee) will be issued. After this date, a 50% refund (minus a 3% administrative fee) will be provided up to March 1. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after March 1.
A minimum of six participants is required for the retreat.
I want to enrol!
