Writefully Empowered: A Manifesto of Possibilities in the Writing Workshop

The time has come to shift how we think about writing in our schools. In Writefully Empowered, Jacob Chastain calls on educators to embrace the deeply personal, powerful, and transformative potential of the writing workshop by pivoting toward a classroom that honors each student's individual voice. As Chastain argues: "When we let-no, push-for students to use their voices for their own purposes, we give them what is rightfully theirs as human beings: the tools to shape the world in their image." Writing through this lens is an exercise in agency, empowerment, and self-determination.

Chastain outlines key considerations for creating a writing workshop that centers freedom, equity, and equality of opportunity. He begins with what writers need, classroom routines, and how to catalyze creativity through mini-lessons, independent work time, and conferencing. He also addresses how to track growth, advocate for equitable practices, and navigate the trauma that sometimes emerges in student work. A clear-eyed call to action informed by Chastain's years of classroom experience, Writefully Empowered will equip educators with all the tools they need to facilitate dynamic practices in their own spaces.

Endorsements

"Writefully Empowered shows teachers how to bring the inner lives of our young writers into the world, moving them from compliance to engagement. I highly recommend it for all secondary ELA teachers." -Kelly Gallagher, author of 180 Days and 4 Essential Studies

"Jacob Chastain's excitement for unlocking students' potential as writers is palpable and contagious. Writefully Empowered is a needed guide for creating vibrant conditions and opportunities that both respect and amplify student voice." -Anindya Kundu, author of The Power of Student Agency

"The nuts and bolts-and soul-of the writing workshop are gathered in this useful text that invites authenticity, practicality, and glorious writing." -Jeff Anderson, author of the Patterns of Power series