As a teacher of writing, I have had the pleasure of working with some creative, ambitious young authors who write with passion and originality. However, their fan base generally resided within the walls of our classroom. If you are a young author, and you would like to take your writing to the next level, this post is for you. Read the advice and check out the list of publications and contests. Take a step toward seeing your work in print! … Read More »

Writer’s block (shudder). Nobody needs to tell us wordfolk how painful and frustrating that condition that freezes up our creativity can be. But you know the old saying: “When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade.” Yes, fellow authors, even writer’s block can be put to good use to further our literary careers! I’m not guaranteeing that you’ll thank the Powers That Be for a spell of block, but at least you won’t have to look back on it in … Read More »

Now that we’re well into the new year, we can actually (cross fingers, throw salt over shoulder, spit three times) start planning to attend writers’ conferences in person. Attending conferences is one of the most useful things a writer can do to improve their craft, make contact with other writers, and promote their work for publication. And they’re fun! Holy Mackerel, There Are a Lot of People Here! These days, there’s a lot of pent-up demand for just about everything. … Read More »

People need people. Most of us humans are a gregarious sort. When the writing life becomes discouraging and lonely, it helps to be able to talk to another writer. This is the virtue of a writers’ group. I have started a writers group in an area that had none (with one other person over coffee at the kitchen table) and also have come to new areas that had existing clubs to join. Perhaps this discussion will help you in your … Read More »

Don’t get me wrong. Journals are lovely, and I have a drawer full. But there are other, and often better ideas for gift giving to a writer. If you have a writer stowed away in your attic, in a closet, or other suitably tight, dark place please consider some of the following ideas for this holiday season. And feel free to check out last year’s post on gifts for writers. Some gifts are timeless (like the gift of time) and … Read More »

Here it is, November again—National Novel Writing Month. Every year, writers throughout America pledge themselves to produce a 50,000 word novel before the clock strikes December. Thanksgiving can make this good intention the road to a nervous breakdown, but just having a goal of some sort and a nation full of colleagues to hold you to it is bracing. No doubt many people actually do write a complete novel (is 50,000 words really a complete novel?). And that is admirable … Read More »