The Power of the Prompt: Writing Workshop with Lara O’Brien
Schedule
Thu Jul 02 2026 at 05:00 pm to 07:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
34 Gray St, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102 | Portland, ME
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Join us from 5-7pm on Thursday, July 2nd for an exclusive writing workshop with Author Lara O’Brien!Workshop slots are limited, so don’t wait to secure your spot!
Interested in hearing Lara talk about her new book, “The Power of the Prompt”? Check out her Maine Irish Author Event HERE!
About the Workshop:
Every workshop and retreat begins the same way — with a simple prompt, a pen, and a circle of people ready to explore what stories are waiting to be told.
These gatherings are for anyone who wants to write, whether you’re starting a memoir, finding your creative spark again, or simply curious about the stories you carry. Together, we write to prompts, listen to one another, and share encouragement in a kind and supportive space.
Our writing workshops and retreats take place in atmospheric venues that inspire creativity — from cozy kitchens by the sea and yoga centers under the Spanish sun, to quiet studios on islands off the coast of Maine or Martha’s Vineyard. Each location has its own magic, but the spirit is always the same: community, creativity, and the power of the prompt.
About Lara:
Lara O’Brien is the founder of Howth Writing Workshops and Retreats, a community group she started at her kitchen table. From this small setting, Howth Writing Workshops has grown to include writing retreats on Martha’s Vineyard, New York, Maine, and the mountains of Cádiz, Spain, where she co-hosts writing and yoga retreats at Suryalila.
Passionate about stories, music, and community, in 2023 she combined that passion with “Hooks & Reels” — an evening of story and song where local musicians and writers showcase their work for the community. Hooks & Reels has grown to be a regular and popular fixture on the Howth Community Calendar, inspiring the work of many upcoming artists, writers, and musicians.
In 2025, Trinity College Dublin recruited her to create and present Storytelling for Cultural Communications and Innovation at their Business School. She facilitates youth summits on writing and leadership, and songwriting workshops for youth groups, and is an AsIAm Champion supporting the autism community.
She also championed the restoration of the historical Howth ÉIRE 6 sign, officially launched by President Michael D. Higgins. She is the convener of the ÉIRE 6 Restoration Group and the Howth Community and Arts Group.
Lara divides family life between Howth, Dublin,
and Vinalhaven, Maine. When not writing, she is found hiking trails, listening to music, or relaxing with her husband, children, and friends.
About the book:
THE POWER OF THE PROMPT
Growing a Writing Community —
How a Little Scribble Goes a Long Way
What happens when a few curious writers gather around a kitchen table in a small coastal village?
They begin to write — and something remarkable unfolds.
The Power of the Prompt is the story of how a simple writing practice grew into a thriving creative community. Blending memoir, storytelling, and practical guidance, Lara O’Brien invites readers into the heart of her workshops — where words spark connection, courage, and friendship.
It’s a book for anyone who’s ever thought, “I’d love to write, but I don’t know where to start.” Part inspiration, part how-to, and part love letter to creative community, The Power of the Prompt reminds us that every story begins the same way — with one brave line on the page.
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Where is it happening?
34 Gray St, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
