I’m often asked what young writers can do to seek and connect with authentic audiences. Sure, writing for themselves, their friends, their family members, and their teachers might be rewarding, and it is absolutely authentic when the purpose is to move the reader rather than simply earning a grade, but how might young writers produce dynamic content for a wide readership? I find that when I think of influence in terms of degrees, it helps.…
Like most who live in western New York state, I love spring for many reasons. The snow has melted, the robins have returned, and the lake is beginning to look inviting again. Spring is a special time for the writers and teachers I support, too. Many of them have devoted a year to improving their craft, and they’re eager to publish their pieces and connect with other writers who share their interests. These are the…
On the first two Wednesdays of every month, I get to hang out with some of the friendliest and most talented writers in Buffalo. These meetings of our adult writing group at the WNY Young Writer’s Studio have become very important to me over the last two years. Writing can be a lonely endeavor, and a good peer review group is hard to find and sustain. I’m fortunate and so very grateful for the company,…
Two days ago, a box of books arrived from Amazon. Not just any books. Copies of some of my favorite books. I like beginning summer by rereading the things that I love the most. It’s almost like meditation for me–the act of revisiting passages I’ve read a thousand times while sitting in the sun or on the sand or out in the back yard while my daughters’ laughter provides background music. Last week, when I…