A Masterclass in Narrative Nonfiction with Ben Rawlence

Here at Foyles we're very proud to be supporting the Portobello Prize — a brand new award for new voices in narrative nonfiction, from Portobello books and C+W literary agency.

In this, its first year, applicants have until 16th October to submit a proposal for consideration, with the chance to win representation and a book deal, backed by a dedicated promotional campaign.

To help inspire any potential applicants we sat down with Ben Rawlence, one of the judges of the inaugural 2017 Portobello Prize and author of City of Thorns: Nine Lives in the World's Largest Refugee Camps, to pick his brain on all things narrative nonfiction.

Drawing on his own personal experience as a writer, Rawlence supplies insight across the creative process — from determining which story to pursue, through the specifics of scene-building, to how a real-world narrative can be concluded.

[jordannoble]

I can’t believe this video hasn’t received more engagement—its information is incredibly direct and helpful, and the delivery is engaging. Fantastic job, thank you for sharing this video!

[rogerrobinson-online]

This video is amazing . So clear and concise . I’ve read books and took workshops before but this gave me all the keys. Thank you.

[tibbar]

This is one of those videos that you can go back to over and over. Makes a great check list if you are working on a project,

[rebekahc]

Brilliant video! Love the thought of nonfiction being choosing whereas fiction is creating.

[Archanakarthikeyan]

Insightful class, I've made my notes. Thank you, Foyles and Ben.

[bhavikasicka]

I've always struggled to conclude my essays in a meaningful way, and your advice about finding the right pause in the story, really helped. Thanks!

[madgiemadgie]

Very informative. Thanks for uploading!

[luccabetta]

Great explanation thank you this is helpful!