Laurie’s greatest gift is his ability to help others believe in themselves as writers. His feedback on my manuscript was gentle on the ego and facilitated skill-building, meaning I walked away feeling confident in myself, my manuscript, and my ability to avoid repeating the same mistakes in future work. He has been incredibly generous with his time and knowledge. A true mentor.

Ashleigh Hardcastle, Author, Olive and Salima

There is something very special about Laurie Steed. He knows exactly the right question to ask of a writer, and when to ask it. Never have I had to think so deeply about my craft, and never have I felt more satisfied by it. I wish all writers could have the chance to work with Laurie Steed at some point in their careers. I cannot recommend his services more highly.

Cassie Hamer, Winner of the 2017 Shoalhaven Literary Award and author, After the Party (Harlequin)

Whenever someone asks me for a writing mentor, I tell them ‘Laurie Steed’. Everyone I know who has been lucky enough to work with Laurie at KSP has sung his praises, and often had a writing industry win as a result. As a program partner, he is professional, friendly, courteous and generous. It is such a gift to have him at our disposal here in Perth!

Shannon Britza, Former Director, Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers’ Centre

Laurie’s insightful and considered feedback has deepened my understanding of the craft of writing, and has helped me think more critically about my own artistic goals and concerns. Just as importantly, Laurie has been an incredible champion of my own (and other emerging writers’) work. This encouragement has buoyed me throughout the ups and downs of the writing life, and I highly recommend his services.

Magdalena McGuire - Winner of the 2016 Impress Boooks Prize and author, Home is Nearby (Impress Books) and Born For You (Ultimo Press)

Laurie Steed brings the perfect combo to his online short story clinics: a fun and nurturing space in which creativity can flourish, and the kind of forensic, expert eye that's necessary to take the next step as a writer. I'd highly recommend any of Laurie's courses. 

Wayne Marshall, Shortlisted, 2019 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards, Author, Shirl (Affirm Press)

Laurie knows short stories like no other. A generous teacher and skilled narrative surgeon, unpicking all elements of story: intuiting what works, what doesn’t; where the narrative arc fails or a character’s motivation jars. He turned a ‘not-quite-there-yet’ story of mine into a publishable piece for Westerly magazine. I can’t recommend him or his inspirational master classes enough.

Bindy Pritchard, Shortlisted for the 2019 WA Premier’s Book Awards and Author, Fabulous Lives (Margaret River Press)

‘If you have a manuscript at the bottom of the drawer that needs something - but you’re not sure what - I urge you to get in contact with Laurie Steed. Sometimes, no matter how hard you are working, you must exit your hobbit hole and get professional advice. If you have a manuscript in the bottom drawer that needs something – but you’re not sure what – I urge you to get in touch with Laurie Steed.’

Emma Young, shortlistee for the 2019 Fogarty Literary Award and author, The Last Bookshop and The Disorganisation of Celia Stone (Fremantle Press)