Anna Purves — writer, editor and writing coach

What Your Words Can Become — Writing Guidance by Anna Purves

Your story deserves
to be told well.

I work with aspiring writers as well as people who rarely write. Whichever one you are, I help you find the heart of your story and how to tell it in the best way.

How I can help

The work we do together

Writing Coach

Do you have a full or partial manuscript? Is it fiction or memoir? Either way, I can give you thoughtful feedback on structure, characters, and immediacy, as well as writing craft and development guidance, so you can take your story all the way.

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Manuscript Editor

Do you have a full or partial manuscript? Is it fiction or memoir? Either way, I can give you thoughtful feedback on structure, characters, and immediacy, as well as writing craft and development guidance, so you can take your story all the way.

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Manuscript Review

A focused assessment of your manuscript's strengths and the key areas to develop. Ideal for writers who want a clear map before they revise — without a full developmental edit.

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About Anna

As a long-time writer and professor, I have helped people of many ages find their voice, push past their hesitations, and express themselves with impact and authenticity. I can help you find you and the words you need — whether on a professional or on a deeply personal level.

Sooner or later everyone needs to write about themselves. Why not now?

What writers say

Stories of transformation

This has been a most instructive course. Anna is an amazing teacher and helped my writing to improve substantially in just six weeks. Thank you Anna.
Barrie T.Fall 2025 Workshop Series
I have thoroughly enjoyed the memoir writing class with Anna and look forward to taking another series. This was my first attempt at writing personal pieces, and it feels like a great adventure. She builds my confidence and gently guides me by asking me the questions I am learning to ask myself.
Roselle M.Fall 2025 Workshop Series
The Creative Nonfiction course with Anna Purves helped me shift from years of professional writing to personal storytelling. Through sensory-based prompts, I began unearthing memories waiting to be acknowledged. The poetry and short readings deepened my understanding of voice, structure, and dialogue. I left class feeling inspired to find the courage to share what I need to say.
Diane T.July 2025 Workshop
As a lifelong writing devotee, and workshop aficionado, I found Anna's classes packed with inspiration, and surprising creative challenges that really helped breakthrough my recent writer's block! I can feel the difference in my writing!
Lori K.April 2025 Memoir Workshop
Your words and guidance have allowed me to see that writing can be a way of expressing my power.
Gurleen A.
Just read my son's final portfolio. I can only say that you did magnificent work inspiring his writing.
Deirdre O.College professor
Working with you helped me to know myself better. Now I'm more confident of who I am.
Lina J.
Thank you for what you have done for me and my craft.
Emmett O.

Ready to write your story?

Dynamic writing workshops. One-on-one editing and shaping of your manuscript, family history, work presentation, or celebration speech. Schedule a free phone call to discuss how we can work together.