Writers need to take the journeys we create. 

We grow in stories.

Hello! I’m Janet Benton, a novelist who helps writers draft and hone powerful stories. With decades of experience, I offer a deep understanding of craft and the writing process. I’ve guided many hundreds of writers, privately and at five universities.

Private Mentoring
Small Workshops
Publication Guidance and Support

The big and small points of craft are best passed from one writer to another, in rich discussions that arise from close reading. Students and clients refer to our work as a personalized MFA program. Through this close and meaningful attention, writing grows.

"Janet’s skillful guidance and feedback have in large part made possible my career as a writer." — PAM JENOFF, AUTHOR OF 13 NOVELS, MANY OF THEM INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS

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JOIN ME IN FRANCE!

"Your Book as a Journey"

Six days in the gorgeous Alpine town of Chamonix, France, in June 2026. Profound instruction in a stunning locale! "Janet is a consummate teacher--deeply knowledgeable, remarkably perceptive, and unfailingly warm and encouraging."

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Client Testimonials

"You did a dynamite job. Your work is pushing me where I need to go. The agent said it was fantastic and a fantastic revision."— Larry Kane, former KYW news anchor, news analyst, and author of three published books, including Ticket to Ride: Inside the Beatles’ 1964 Tour that Changed the World

"Janet is a miracle worker. She’s teaching me about writing and editing and cheering me on through the whole process."— Rebecca Matthias, author of Motherswork: How a Young Mother Started a Business on a Shoestring and Built It into Multi-Million Dollar Company and author of two self-published novels

"Your changes really make the writing sparkle--making it more like music--taking it up another octave."— Alex Jack, author of dozens of published books, publisher, and ghostwriter for The Mozart Effect, which spawned an industry 