Ajay Close

My first career as an award-winning journalist was followed by writer in residences in Renfrewshire and Perth and Kinross. I now work as a novelist, dramatist, and creative-writing tutor. Two of my five novels have been long-listed for major prizes. Recurring themes in my work include: feminism, politics, troubled family relationships, narcissism, victimhood and its ambiguities.

As a writer, I value vivid, musical sentences and storytelling. As a dramatist (two adult plays, and one youth theatre production), I seek the moments of magic unique to the stage. I regularly speak on panels discussing feminism: my fourth novel, A Petrol Scented Spring, was about the Scottish suffragettes; my current work-in-progress features a group of second wave, revolutionary feminists in the 1970s.

I am also secretary of the Friends of William Soutar Society. I can offer:

• Readings and talks for writers' groups, book groups and community organisations
• Workshops to suit writers of all ages and levels of experience (developing skills with plotting, characterisation, dialogue, voice, etc)
• Panel discussions
• Facilitation at literary events, interviewing other writers, chairing debates
• Inspirational, fun workshops for schoolchildren and adults
• Detailed feedback for fiction writers and poets
• Working with young actors to devise plays

(Photo credit: Roben Antoniewicz)