learning to write

Learning to write is a lifelong path to self-discovery, and as with all paths, you can either go it alone or get some help. I strongly suggest getting some help. Below I've listed resources I trust that can help you become a writer.

Heather Wright

Heather is my consulting editor. She offers writing classes from pre-teens and up, both online and in-person, as well as coaching services. (A writing coach is someone who helps you stay on track with your writing project.) Heather has a lot of free writing resources on her website.

Joanna Penn

Joanna Penn is a highly respected creative entrepreneur, i.e., she runs a business about writing and is herself a writer. I really enjoy her podcast, because she emphasizes the business side of writing. Yes, you can make a living as a writer. No, it doesn't happen overnight. Yes, you can work on it while you have a day job.

Susan Fish/Storywell

Susan Fish is my second editor: she first reads through my full manuscript and gives me feedback on its structure, my characters, how my ideas flow...all the big-picture issues. I work through her changes and give it back to her for a second read, and she smoothens out my language. If you're on this page, you may not be at the stage of needing an editor right now; however, keep Susan in mind if you're ready to have a professional editor review your manuscript.

Jane Friedman

Jane Friedman is another highly respected expert in the book industry. She co-writes The Hot Sheet, which is a paid newsletter (and well worth the money), offers numerous webinars (usually for a fee, but again, well worth it), and has lots of free writing advice on her website.