Take it Bird by Bird
In this special posting from our archives, read WD's 1996 interview with Anne Lamott, conducted shortly after the release of her classic book on writing. (Note: In order to make the piece readable, it is a free PDF download.)
Plot Twist Story Prompts: Dance Time
Every good story needs a nice (or not so nice) turn or two to keep it interesting. This week, have your characters dance.
Convention-al Wisdom: Why I Love Attending Cons as a Writer
Russell James shares how convention act as more than networking events for writers, but as an opportunity to be face-to-face with your readers, to make new friends, and more.
Alicia Thompson: On Writing Romance in Isolating Times
Writer Alicia Thompson discusses what she learned about herself in writing her new romance novel, Love in the Time of Serial Killers.
60 Examples of Hooks for Books
This post collects 60 examples of hooks for books. Also called elevator pitches, these book hooks show real-life examples in a variety of writing genres for fiction and nonfiction books.
How To Turn Artifacts and Research Into a Family Memoir
A century’s old family heirloom acted as a clue to the past for author Cornelia Maude Spelman. Here, she shares how to turn artifacts and research into a family memoir.
Miriam Parker: On Writing the Book You Want To Read
Author and publisher Miriam Parker discusses her surprise at writing her new novel, Room and Board.
Wednesday Poetry Prompts: 622
Every Wednesday, Robert Lee Brewer shares a prompt and an example poem to get things started on the Poetic Asides blog. This week, write a story poem.
7 Tips for Fictionalizing Real Historical Characters
When to retell history, when to imagine new scenarios, and who’s safe to use as a subject—author Gill Paul shares 7 tips for fictionalizing real historical characters.
A Thief in the Market
Every writer needs a little inspiration once in a while. For today's prompt, someone is stealing from small business owners.