Tap the Synergy: Writers Helping Writers ~ by Julie Phend

 

 

There’s a common perception that writers tend to hole up with their computers and rarely interact with others, or that they're so afraid of copyright theft, they jealously guard their secrets. Nothing could be further from the truth. Despite the solitary hours that go into developing and penning our ideas, writers are generous people who freely offer their time and talents to help one another.

 

Let’s look at some ways to tap into the creative synergy of this vibrant community.

Critique Groups:

When I interviewed writers on how they help one another, critique groups topped the list. In such groups, writers offer advice to one another by pointing out unclear passages, overused words, point of view and grammar errors. They hold each other accountable by expecting work to be submitted on a regular basis. They share tips about agents, publishers, comp titles, and more. Critique partners offer moral support and provide encouragement when the going gets rough, and cheer for each other when good news is shared. Writers often develop lasting friendships over years of meeting with a critique group. 

First Readers:

Writers frequently act as first readers for other writers. Drawing on their own experience and expertise, they can point out places that still need revision and suggest ways to market the work. There’s no better first reader than another writer.  

 

Joint Marketing Efforts:

 

Groups of writers can extend their success by engaging in joint marketing efforts. I belong to a group of local writers, Lake Authors of the Wilderness. Because we all write in different genres, we don’t critique, but our monthly meetings still offer support, encouragement, writing and publishing tips. Our joint marketing efforts include purchasing space at book festivals and craft fairs. We take turns manning the booth and making sales. The diversity of our offerings helps to bring in customers.  It's a win-win for everyone!

 

 

 

Conferences:

At conferences, writers network and present, sharing their expertise. Conferences are great opportunities to pick up helpful tips, meet and mingle with new and old friends. They can be large or small--often organized by professional organizations such as Mystery Writers of America (MWA) and Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). These conferences can be good sources for finding critique partners, and help to fill a writer’s creative cup.

 

Podcasts and Webinars:

There are a plethora of podcasts and webinars through which writers reach out to other writers. These presentations, targeted toward specific needs and interests, serve as ongoing training for writers and help introduce listeners to important developments in the publishing industry.

 

Write-ins/Virtual Writing Spaces:

Many writers find it helpful to write with others. This can be in an actual location, such as a coffee shop, or a virtual writing space. These groups offer structured time to write, with breakout sessions to discuss, ask for feedback, and offer insight. Writer Carol Nissenson works with a Virtual Writing Space hosted through Instagram. 

 

Other groups that offer online meetings include:

• My Learning Essentials https://medium.com/my-learning-essentials/introducing-writing-together-e99009232774
  
• Writing Momentum.com https://www.writingmomentum.com/writingmoments/ 
• Camp NaNoWriMo https://nanowrimo.org/what-is-camp-nanowrimo and others.

Blogs:

Many writers volunteer their time and talents to write blog posts on topics of interest to other writers.

• Our own GROG Blog https://groggorg.blogspot.com/ offers interviews with writers and editors, news about events for writers, book reviews and behind-the-scenes author stories.
•  Anita McDivitt Barios’ Fabric of Words https://amb.mystrikingly.com/ reviews books and shares writing advice.
•  Always in the Middle reposts 5-7 blog articles for Middle Grade writers each week on Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (MMGM) https://gpattridge.com/ 
• Teaching Authors https://www.teachingauthors.com/ offers weekly posts from six authors who also teach writing.

There are many, many more! Beth Schmelzer, who sent me a marvelous list, says, “So many blogs, so little time. Each blog has a different style, perspective, and appeal to readers and writers.”  Find one that speaks to you.

 

 

 

Spread the word:

One of the most important ways writers help each other is by spreading the word about each other’s books. We can all join this effort. When someone you know publishes a new book, attend their launch party and review the book on Amazon and Goodreads. Buy the book, give it as a gift, and ask your library to stock it on their shelves.

 

Linda Acorn Budzinski sent an inspiring story of how a writer friend helped spread the word about her book, Em and Em. The writer and her daughter co-reviewed the book for Your Teen Magazine. The daughter’s friends all read the book, and one of the friends' mother, who is a TV producer, brought the book to her company’s attention. As a result, the book was optioned for television.

 

Suzi Weinert in my Lake Authors group had a similar experience. A writer friend recommended Suzi’s book, Garage Sale Stalker, to Hallmark, where she worked. As a result, Suzi’s book and characters became the basis for Hallmark’s popular Garage Sale Mystery series.

 

Writer Natalie Rompella reminds us of the Golden Rule. “Whatever you’d like others to do for your book, do it for theirs.”

 

 

Tap the Synergy:

 

Linda Acorn Budzinski sums it up: “Writers help me all the time through moral support, friendship, feedback, and just plain understanding the life of a writer when no one else seems to!”

 

Tapping into the expertise and energy of the writing community is well worth the effort. You’ll learn much, form lasting friendships, and find support for every step on your writing journey.

 

A Shout-Out:

Finally, a big thank you to the generous writers who shared their stories and tips for this article: Linda Acorn Budzinski, Dana Wilson Easley, Barbara Ellen, Pam Evans, Kathryn Gaglione Hughes, Jennifer Loizeaux, Sharon Lyon, Carmela Martino, Eileen Meyer, Carol Nissenson, Natalie Rompella, Joyana Peters, Beth Schmelzer, Debra Kempf Shumaker, Ann McCallum Staats, Amy Thernstrom, and Suzi Weinert.

 

Celebrating the Successful Critique Group: I Couldn’t Have Done it Without You! by Julie Phend

 

No matter where you are in your writing journey, the COVID-19 pandemic has put roadblocks in your path. Maybe it’s hard to find time to write with kids at home or you’re distracted by concern for loved ones. Perhaps you have a new book that has to be promoted entirely online. These are added challenges to an already difficult job. But writers are a resilient group. We may stumble on the stones thrown in our path, but we pick ourselves up and keep on traveling.

We need not travel alone. The support of others is crucial to our journey. And one of the best ways to find support is through a good critique group. I belong to two groups, one that used to meet in person and another that has always critiqued online. Now, due to the pandemic, both groups meet on Zoom. Through these tough months, we have encouraged and pushed each other. We’ve continued to be productive because we know others are counting on us. The pandemic has actually brought us closer, and I believe both groups are stronger than ever. 

So I want to give a shout-out to critique groups everywhere and explore what makes them work.

What is a Critique Group?

A critique group is a group of writers who share their work on a regular basis for the purpose of exchanging feedback and improving craft.

 

Why are critique groups important for a writer?

I posed this question to Terry Jennings, who facilitates critique groups for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) MidAtlantic chapter. 

She said, “A critique group serves as a sounding board for your writing. Critique groups can tell you what you’re doing well, as well as what is confusing about your piece. You can use the group to talk through a problem and get ideas about how to solve it. A critique group also provides validation of your work. It pushes you to write and teaches you to meet deadlines. And by critiquing others, you learn what works. You grow as a writer.”

What are the important elements of a successful critique group?

I asked this question of number of writers involved in critique groups. The answers were surprisingly consistent.

• Respect: It is crucial to respect each member’s work, their personality, and their process. Remember, they are entrusting you with their creative baby—treat that gift with care.

• Generosity: Members genuinely want to help each other find the best path for telling their stories. They applaud what works and make suggestions for improvement.

• Honesty: Critique partners must be honest about what is confusing or doesn’t work. Oftentimes, discussion leads to insight, and insight leads to the best fix.

• Commitment: When you join a critique group, you are making a commitment to yourself as well as fellow members. Giving thoughtful feedback takes time. Meet deadlines. Carve out the time needed.

How Do Critique Groups Work?

This varies from one group to another. Both of my groups exchange manuscripts for written feedback prior to meeting. However, one group sends comments before the meeting while the other sends them afterward. Some groups read a submission aloud during the meeting, organize their responses, and then discuss. Still other groups exchange feedback entirely through written comments without ever actually meeting.  

Groups vary in size, the most workable being 4-6 members. Meetings vary from weekly to monthly and last about two hours. What’s important is to meet regularly, set guidelines for number of pages and rules for discussion, and follow them. Every writer should get equal time. A timer is crucial for this purpose.

What are my responsibilities in critiquing others?

Meet deadlines. Take time to read your partners’ work carefully and give thoughtful comments both on what works and what doesn’t. When possible, suggest a fix. Be specific, but don’t rewrite it yourself. Always remember, it’s the author’s story. Confidentiality is important, too. Don’t talk about your critique partners’ work to others. It’s their decision when and how much they want to share about their projects.

What are my responsibilities when my work is critiqued?

Listen openly and attentively. Take notes and ask questions if you don’t understand something, without interrupting or becoming defensive. Don’t dismiss what others are saying—upon reflection, you will often see the wisdom of their comments. At the same time, remember it’s your story. Know your story so you aren’t unduly influenced.

 

Other Insights from the Writers I Interviewed:

• Go into it with a spirit of collaboration, not competition. Celebrate each other’s successes, large and small. Be cheerleaders for each other! Since writing is such a solitary endeavor, camaraderie and support can be as important as the actual critique.

• A good group needs to concentrate on both the big picture and the nitty-gritty. It’s more than proofreading.

• A good fit is crucial. Look for a group that writes for the same audience or genre as you. Join on a trial basis and see if you feel comfortable. Do you like the members’ work? Does their feedback meet your needs? “It’s like a relationship,” says critique member Joyana McMahon. “You’re not only choosing each other; you’re choosing to commit and foster each other’s growth over time.”

Joyana McMahon, Julie Phend, JoAnn Sanchez Kenyon, Amy Thernstrom on Zoom

 

Like any good relationship, your group will have its ups and downs. The make-up of your group may change over time, but your commitment will stand. There is no better feeling than having one of your group members publish a new book and knowing you helped it on its journey.

This sounds wonderful! How can I find a group?

There are many resources online. SCBWI offers resources. A local chapter can put you in touch with people who live near you. (SCBWI MidAtlantic maintains a list of writers looking for critique groups in its member pages.) Other writers’ organizations offer similar services. Put out a request on their Facebook pages and on your own. Check out the writing community on Twitter. Talk to other writers at conferences. 

Let people know you’re looking for a group, and you will find one. Then give it your best, and you will reap the rewards!

 

Fab Five Critique Group: Eileen Meyer, Carmela Martino, Dana Easley, Natalie Rompella, Julie Phend

Resources:

For more insight on critique groups, check out the following related Grog blog posts:

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2017/12/critique-groups-critique-partners-we.html?fbclid=IwAR2mvpDyvY4uPGvLrgyaTJoBBY_qeEWLd_f2X8oTVKb0KbNPETkxlmfFVOc

 

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2015/08/rx-for-your-critique-group-by-patricia.html?fbclid=IwAR3vqRbTz_HUIPMgIEkQtxVmao6aL9_3HxuJLe52-PiNfo8yk_MJITo2-sU

 

https://groggorg.blogspot.com/2018/01/critique-groups-part-2-by-kathy-halsey.html?fbclid=IwAR3MfQ9fs11oY-GAi-UWYJhkV8TIJl5gOHx9Lr6sBe2kuqwsPapLVTA_jt4

Another helpful resource is THE WRITING GROUP BOOK: CREATING AND SUSTAINING A SUCCESSFUL WRITING GROUP Edited by Lisa Rosenthall

 

 

Critique Groups: Part 2 - by Kathy Halsey

Back in November before the deep freeze hit most of the country, I asked a question in KidLit 411 about critique groups. That question warmed up the FB chat, so today I give you part 2, advice from writers who frequent the 411 "water cooler." (Here's part 1, the Nov. post on critique groups.) 

Advice  and Links from Others

In my first post, I discussed that one may not find the "right" group and that cycling through a few groups/partners is really part of the process. Author and 12x12 leader Julie Hedlund agreed. 
Julie said, "One thing people should know is that it can take some time to get the 'right' group. Don't be disheartened if you try a few groups before finding one that's a great fit."

On a related note, writer Michele Blood cautioned, "RUN AWAY if you smell trouble. I learned the hard way." 
However, trouble rarely happens when you connect via SCBWI or in respected groups such as Julie's, 12x12, Sub It Club or Sub Six. 

Susan Uhlig Ford has written number of posts on critique groups and also wrote SCBWI guidelines, too. Here are links to some of her posts:

• For beginners and those needing a new group look here.
• For various types of critique groups. Look at detailed methods here.
• Susan also offers a way to classify comments after a critique and what to do with them here. Personally, absorbing comments and suggestions usually is my sticking point. 
• Finally, Susan suggested we look at critique rules and how/when to break a rule over at The Write Conversation blog here.

What Else Can a Critique Group Do?

My current group of six writers meets weekly even if we all can't make it online that night. It's important to establish routines and habits, so sometimes only a few of us meet. On such evenings we may not work on anyone's manuscript but still do writerly work. We might do any of the following:

• Read picture books to each other that could be used as comp titles for WIPs. Since we use Google hangouts, we can share the illustrations, too.
• Discuss webinars or classes we recently took and share notes.
• Brainstorm new ideas or share beginnings and endings of WIPS to see if they work as "bookends" for each other.
• We also keep a private FB page and post agent alerts and submission opportunities. 

Why does all this work? This group is a BEAST 

because we all contribute content and energy to making our goals into realities. Not all critique groups run this way, but our combined efforts make us accountable to each other. In this new year of possibilities, may you find the right critique partner/group for you. 

The Writers Match ~By Suzy Leopold

Writers need critique partners and groups to take writing to the next level along the path of becoming published. A critique partner or writing group can be invaluable in helping a writer hone skills and improve one's writing. Sometimes finding the right critique partner or group can be daunting and disappointing. 

It doesn't have to be, thanks to Megan Taraszkiewicz and The Writers Match. 

Today our guest on the GROG Blog shares The Five Ws + How she founded The Writers Match. 

Allow me to introduce you to Megan . . .

WHO:

My name is Megan Taraszkiewicz and I founded The Writers Match. I started writing Middle Grade and YA but quickly found that I was more well-suited for Picture Book writing. As a former Elementary School Media Specialist, Picture Books were my first love and writing them came naturally to me. I worked two years as a Media Specialist and then my district eliminated all of the positions. No librarians in school?? It makes me so sad to think about. But, since I was heavily pregnant at the time with my first child, getting to stay home with him was such a blessing. 

I wrote periodically while caring for him and after I had a daughter a couple of years later but those first attempts at MG and YA have never (and probably will never) see the light of day. 

As I began to transition to writing PBs, my son, Owen, suddenly and unexpectedly died from a rare disease called HLH. Obviously, I was (and still am) completely and utterly devastated. Life had thrown me the worst thing possible and I had to figure out a way to deal with it. 

I decided that I had to dedicate myself to writing my stories and figure out a way to help other people. I think that The Writers Match grew naturally out of that need to help others and I truly hope that members become better writers because of it.

As for myself, I’ve plowed ahead in my writing. I feel like I am right at the threshold of getting an agent and a book deal and most of that is due to my great writing partners.

Megan Taraszkiewicz

WHAT:

The Writers Match is a website dedicated to helping writers find critique partners. I imagined the site would be like a “Match.com for writers” where you could browse profiles and search for specific writing genres and experience levels. 

Writers of all levels and genres are welcome and there is already a great mix of members swapping stories there. The site is free to join and eventually I hope to offer a paid premium service that will have some great benefits.

WHEN:

I started The Writers Match in February of 2017 after the initial spark to start it came at the end of 2016. There was so much political turmoil and I felt that, personally, starting this to help other people was my way of putting something good into the world. 

I want to be focused on the positive rather than the negative because when you receive a rejection from an agent or bad news from your editor, it can be extremely tough. It’s so nice to have a community of other writers on the journey with you so you can share in those tough times and rejoice when things go well.

WHERE:

The best thing about The Writers Match is that you never have to leave the comfort of your home. On top of writing, I am a stay at home mom and I often don’t have the time to go meet with a writing group. I much prefer swapping manuscripts on my own time and I know many other people feel the same. 

The site is open to writers all over the world and the site is also fully accessible from your smartphone. I wanted writers to be able to access The Writers Match from just about anywhere.

WHY:

I’ve read books on writing and have taken classes but I truly believe that finding a good critique partner is one of the best ways to improve your craft. To get input on your particular story from people in the writing world is so valuable. I am blessed to have a great writing partner (who found me through a mutual friend) as well as a critique group, and I can’t imagine ever writing and submitting a story without them. Too often, writers get stuck in their own writing bubble but we need outside input to improve. Our bubbles need to be burst a bit to get better.

Also, I’m often blown away by how generous the writing community and kid lit community can be. There is so much support and love for each other and celebration when someone succeeds. It’s such a unique and wonderful community to be a part of. I knew that The Writers Match would fit right in and people have been very enthusiastic about the site.

HOW:

When I first started taking my writing seriously, I realized that it was not easy finding a good critique partner or writing group to share my work with. I felt like I scoured the Internet looking for someone. I joined a local writing group but it was not a kid lit group and eventually left to focus solely on my picture book writing. I tried to find partners on Facebook manuscript swaps but that wasn’t easy. My posts would often go unanswered, which felt like more rejection in an already rejection-heavy field of work. In the back of my mind, I’d always dreamed of a matchmaking website for writers. I kept that notion buried back there until I was at a SCBWI Fall Craft Weekend in NJ. As another writer and I were lamenting over how hard it was to find good critique partners, I mentioned my idea and her face lit up. She was so enthusiastic about the idea that the seed was planted and I got the ball rolling a couple of months later.

Sign up today:

It is very easy to join The Writers Match, just visit The Writer's Match and click the word, Register. 

Fill out your information and start building your profile page. You can add as much or as little as you would like about yourself and your writing but I find that the more you add, the easier it is to find a partner who would work well with you. 

Then you can begin your search for other writers by either scrolling through the members page or utilize the search bar.

You can follow The Writers Match on Twitter.

Happy Spring

Tips for Beginning Writers ~Suzy Leopold

Please note: 
While the title indicates beginning writers, I consider these Tips for All Writers. Even if you feel you are a writer who has moved beyond the beginning stages, I encourage you to continue to read. 

Perhaps you are a published author. Please proceed. Hopefully, you will feel affirmed in what you know as a writer and/or be reminded of what works for you, while reading this blog post. 

For the beginning writer, I do hope you will discover some new ideas to further your interest in writing.

1. Say it out loud: "I am a writer."

When can you start calling yourself a writer?
     Now.
          Right now.
Don't be shy. 
     Doing so makes it real.

A writer can be unpublished, prepublished or published.

Look in the mirror and say, "I am a writer."
Say it again until you believe it.

"When can you start calling 

yourself a writer?

Now."

~Chuck Sambuchino

2. Read, read, read.

• Read in the genre that you write.
• Read across genres, including books for children and adults.
• Read newspapers and magazines.
• Read poetry.
• Read recently published books at the library and bookstore.
• Linda Sue Park, a Newbery Medal winning author, encourages aspiring children's authors to read at least five hundred books in the genre and age group that you desire to write.

Reading numerous books helps define what a good story is to you and from there you will write the stories you like to read.

Each year a committee of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), creates a list of worthy and notable books. 

Click on the link ALSC Notable Children's Books for more information.

Every time you read a book that you like, study it further. Analyze it. Study the techniques the writer used. Ask questions:

• What do you like about this story or article?
• How did the author hook you as a reader?
• Figure out what works with the beginning and the ending of the story.
• Analyze the word count.
• How did the author use the right word in the right place?
• Think about character development---How are the characters authentic with their action and dialogue?

3. Write, write, write.

• Practice, Write, Revise and Repeat.
• Most writers feel that writing every day is best. However, you need to cultivate a process that works for you. Create a writing and revision process that helps you do your best work.
• Set a timer. Begin writing for 10 to 30 minutes. Over time, you will build your writing stamina to write for longer periods of time.
• Perseverance + Discipline + Time = A Story
• Do write in your voice with your individual strengths and uniqueness. 
• Get everything out of your head and onto paper or in a word document.

4. Keep a writing journal.

• Write down favorite quotes and words of wisdom.
• Doodle and draw characters, settings, and book cover ideas. You don't have to be artistic---stick figures work to give you a better layout that includes page turns.
• Jot down both positive and negative thoughts, along with your ups and downs during your writing journey.
• Brainstorm lists of words.
• Keep your ideas and inspiration inside your journal.
• Create a checklist of goals.
• Write an outline for a book idea.
• Record highlights of information you learned to a conference, workshop, and/or webinar.

Create a journal filled with information you can refer as a resource to refer to. In time, look back at your journal entries. I'm certain you will note how you have grown as a writer.

5. Reach out to writers.

• If you aren't already a member, become a member of SCBWI.
• Participate in writing challenges, Facebook groups and discussions, critique groups---in-person and online.
• Discuss the process of writing with trusted friends. Together through encouragement, critique partners should give you courage to be daring, to make mistakes and learn and grow.

I picked these flowers for YOU from my garden.

Every one has a story to tell. Know why you want to share this story. Why does it matter? Why is it important for it to be told? 

Be brave. Believe.