A Writing Group to Celebrate

Writing is a solitary occupation, and some writers like to keep it that way until it’s time to submit a manuscript to a publisher. Others, like me, prefer to meet regularly with a group of fellow writers – to get feedback on works-in-progress, to share in the trials and tribulations of the writing life, and to celebrate the joys of creation and of connecting with appreciative readers.

For ten years now I’ve had the good fortune to be a member of the most discerning and supportive group a writer could hope for. We met recently to celebrate! The others in my writing group are – in the order I came to know them – Paula Wing, Lena Coakley, and Hadley Dyer.

They’re a talented bunch. Paula is a playwright, translator, and drama teacher. Lena is an author of picture books and short stories who has recently signed a contract for her first ya fantasy novel. Hadley is an editor and writer of many non-fiction titles whose first foray into fiction attracted awards like a magnet attracts iron filings.

These capsule statements don’t begin to capture their achievements or their dynamic and diverse personalities, so I hope you’ll check out the links above. (Sadly, Paula does not have her own website, which would no doubt capture her great wit, if she did.)

Wendy Lewis is another multi-talented writer who has also been a member of our group. After a few years, she decided to take a leave of absence and sadly has been unable to return.

If you have a suggestion for writing group newbies, or for writing group veterans who might benefit from a fresh new idea – something your writing group experience has taught you – I hope you’ll post it as a comment.

In the meantime, happy writing!