FREE 30-Day Author Challenge:
Shape your idea into a blueprint you can write from, and start your year as author-to-be.
Each morning in January, you'll receive a short video lesson and a simple creative task to move your story forward. You'll go from the spark of an idea to a complete working plan.
By the end of this FREE challenge, you'll hold a clear blueprint for your book, the method, and the confidence to (finally) get it written.
Why most writers never finish their book
(and how this challenge changes that)
Most writers start strong...but then lose direction. The books that get finished are the ones that have a clear plan for structure, plot, AND method. They're built with intention.
That's what you'll learn here: how to design your idea like an architect—with clarity and purpose—and how to implement it with a set process and steady structure.
When you write with structure:
Your ideas flow instead of fighting each other (or getting totally lost!).
You stop getting stuck...or writing the same chapter over and over.
You build momentum that lasts until the final page.
You CAN write a book.
You just need a bit of structure.
In the challenge, we'll give you equal parts guidance on HOW to write the story and how to build your writing process.
You won't be going in blindly anymore, just getting words on the page with no clue where they'll end up.
But we'll also leave some room to place.
Because what's the point if it isn't fun?
You'll be given a task every day that'll build your writing momentum and grow your craft.
Make 2026 the year you WRITE IT.
Meet your professor
Hi, I’m Shelly: cultural historian, PhD in storytelling, and founder of Academy of Story.
I've spent my career helping writers shape their ideas into books that get finished.
My professional and academic background in writing and storytelling, narrative theory, and structure means that you're getting more than a writing teacher. I'll also show you the foundations and frameworks to make your book (and your book-writing process) work.
Our Free Author Challenges are where most writers begin their journey with Academy of Story.
And it's where you'll learn to think like an author...not just a writer.
Build a creative rhythm that keeps you moving forward long after our month together ends.
Introducing the Free 30-Day Author Challenge
A FREE challenge that turns your book idea into an actionable writer's blueprint and a process to get it written.
Each day, you'll receive a short video and a small, practical writing task.
Together, they'll help you:
Clarify your core story.
Shape your structure and flow.
Build your daily writing practice.
Leave with a concrete foundation and blueprint to finish your manuscript.
Most writings rush the early stages, ride the wave of excitement, and the fizzle out because they get lost in how to pull it all off.
In this challenge, we'll build your framework (for the book AND for the process). You'll see your story take shape and then know exactly how to execute it.
In 1 month, we’ll cover:
The basic plot points and structure pieces that a book needs to include.
Building out a plot grid that includes your main themes and where to put them.
How to stay consistent with your draft and coach yourself when it gets tough.
Storytelling devices to bring your book to life, and where to put them.
How to take the foundation you build and turn it into a full manuscript.
The challenge starts on 2 January 2026
Make 2026 the year you become an author
This is for the budding author who:
has carried an idea for years and doesn't know where to start.
wants the momentum to finish a draft.
feels buried in notes and half-drafts without a clear plan.
is ready to finally write that book.
It starts with structure, a bit of guidance, and 30 days of practice.
Your book is waiting for you to begin.
The difference between writers who start…and writers who FINISH
Most writers carry an idea, but they never let it form.
They collect notes, outlines, and half-drafts...and then wait for the right time or a burst of clarity that never comes.
The writers who become authors do one thing differently:
They build the framework early.
They have a structure that holds their ideas, shapes their chapters,
and gives them a solid path to return to each day.
That's what this challenge helps you do.
We're going beyond the new-year momentum of January and setting up for a finished manuscript in 2026.
You're meant to be an author.
What you’ll walk away with
After the 30-Day Author Challenge, you’ll:
Have a complete book blueprint that captures the premise, themes, and basic structure.
Build a daily writing rhythm that fits your life.
Be bursting with creativity and bold ideas.
Know the threads of your story and how to weave them into a whole book.
Questions? I’ve got answers.
Is this really free?
Yep. You’ll receive 30 daily lessons and tasks delivered straight to your inbox in video and written form, totally free.
Do I need to be an experienced writer?
Not at all. This challenge is for anyone with an idea and a dream to write a book. We'll cover the basics, like an authorship 101 class.
What if I'm short on time?
You only need 30 minutes a day. The lessons will be less than 10 minutes, and your daily task requires only some thought, a pen (or computer screen), and a bit of space to day dream.
When does it start?
We're kicking off on the 2nd of January 2026. That'll give you time to relax after New Years Eve and be ready to go on your 2026 goals. Sign up now and get a few welcoming gifts and tips to prep you in the meantime!
This is your call to adventure
Every author starts somewhere. This is your starting line to turn your idea into action.
Take 30 days to get clarity, structure, and creative momentum to carry you from hesitation to authorship.
By the end, you won't just want to write a book...you'll be writing one.
