The Thurston Middle School Writers Conference is a dynamic, craft-centered event featuring professional writers presenting workshops to seventh-grade students. The conference highlights storytelling fundamentals—screenwriting, novel writing, process, and creative practice—through author-led conversations, Q&A, and hands-on writing activities. As students prepare to draft their own novels during an intensive month-long writing unit, the conference offers practical strategies, real-world inspiration, and an optional book-signing opportunity to connect young writers with the creative path ahead.