Lara o'Brien
writer & story telling facilitator
Workshops and retreats that inspire creativity, connection, and the power of the prompt.
Testimonials & Kind Words
“I am one of the many Katherines who attended your Women's writing workshop last Saturday - the one who lost her husband seven months ago - and I wanted to thank you for offering such an excellent workshop.
I found the Irish cultural center workshop more healing and encouraging than many of the therapy sessions I've been to in recent years and weeks, so thanks for providing such a warm and nurturing space.
I especially appreciated your excellent feedback on our writings - you really have a knack for picking out the best in everyone's work, and for encouraging folks to keep writing.” — Katherine Roth
“Lara, the whole process of your writing workshop has been a gift. In addition to finding freedom with words and expressions, developing community with stimulating discussion is always invaluable. Getting a broader perspective of life benefits all of us.
I appreciate how well you listen and analyze our writing. My writing and story are stronger from the workshops, thank you.” — Mark Davis
Lara is an integral part of the Martha’s Vineyard writing community. An enchanting writer herself, she generously devotes her time to supporting island non-profits with innovative writing based-programming. She’s a valued mentor to island students, both in school and out, and runs highly regarded workshops on memoir and personal essay-writing.
I know from my own happy experience as a workshop facilitator that Lara draws a group together and elicits their best work. Her warm, vibrant and joyful personality and her ability to forge immediate connections is a true asset to any group.” — Geraldine Brooks, Pulitzer Prize winner for fiction
About Lara O'Brien
Lara O’Brien is an Irish writer, storyteller, and facilitator who believes everyone has a story worth telling. All it takes is the right prompt to bring it to life.
Originally from Dublin, Lara has spent years creating spaces where people can write, share, and connect through words. She’s the heart behind The Power of the Prompt workshops: lively, creative gatherings that start with a scribble and often end in laughter, discovery, and even standing ovations at local storytelling events.
Her love for community and storytelling comes through in everything she does, from her writing to the way she cheers on others finding their voice.
For Lara, writing isn’t just about craft, it’s about connection, courage, and the joy of putting words to the things that move us.
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coming soon
The Power of the Prompt
Part memoir, part guide, The Power of the Prompt explores how a simple writing exercise grew into a thriving creative community on the Howth peninsula. Lara O’Brien shares stories, insights, and inspiration for anyone who wants to start writing — or help others find their voice.
The Power of the Prompt is a handbook for radical creativity for anyone who has ever dreamed of writing, of being heard. — Paula Meehan, Irish Poet
UPCOMING
Workshops, retreats, and gatherings that celebrate creativity, community, and the written word.
Howth Writing Workshops
October 3rd – December 5th, 2025
Fridays 10am–1pm | €400
Join a small, supportive group of writers around the table each week in the heart of Howth. Over ten weeks, you’ll explore prompts, develop your voice, and build creative confidence in a nurturing, laughter-filled setting overlooking the sea.
→ FULL – Waitlist open
Howth Writing Retreat
October 27th–30th, 2025 | Howth – FULL
Four mornings of focused writing in a beautiful, historic venue by the coast. Afternoons are yours to walk the pier, wander the castle trails, or share conversation and stories over coffee.
The retreat ends with a special Hooks & Reels evening of story and song on October 30th — celebrating the creative spirit of the group.
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Hooks & Reels – A Night with Anne Chambers
October 30th, 2025 | The Abbey Tavern, Howth
This special Samhain edition of Hooks & Reels brings the spirit of Grace O’Malley back to Howth, featuring Anne Chambers and an evening of live music and true stories from local writers.
Part performance, part celebration — this beloved community night always sells out fast.
November Writing Retreat
November 3rd–6th, 2025 | Howth
10am–1pm, Monday–Thursday
A second autumn retreat for those eager to dive deeper into their writing practice. Daily sessions blend writing prompts, reflection, and gentle guidance to help your stories take shape.
→ Waitlist open (10 places max)
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