Our Editors Recommend
See which of these new 2019 novels, nonfiction books, and short story collections are right up your alley … Read More “QUIZ: Which new summer 2019 book should you read next?”
Choosing our words carefully creates a welcoming space on the page for all readers – and it makes for better writing, too … Read More “A writer’s argument for political correctness”
Finding a rock on the beach reminds one editor of the importance of specificity and how it raises the emotional stakes … Read More “The secret to sharpening your fuzzy prose”
First published in 1983, these questions are still wonderfully relevant for modern fiction writers. How many can you answer … Read More “From the Archives: 20 questions to ask your character”
Based on their previous experiences, writers provide packing tips and advice on how to maximize a writing residency or retreat … Read More “What to take to a writing residency or retreat”
Authors have called upon their experiences as parents of children with disabilities, and on volunteer work or extensive research, to create characters who reflect the … Read More “Writing disabled protagonists in children’s and YA literature”
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Writing Prompts
Write about you (or your main character’s) earliest memory involving water … Read More “Summer writing prompt: Water, water everywhere”
Take a widely-known cliché character – the ditzy cheerleader, the dumb jock, the workaholic lawyer, the no-good cheating husband, the cat lady, etc. – and … Read More “Avoiding cliché characters in fiction”
Sometimes the hardest part is coming up with the first line.
Use one, or all, of these first lines:
• Charlene leaned closer to the stranger … Read More “Your first line”
2019 spring short story contest
Submit your best fictional story in 2,000 words or less for your chance to win $1,000 & publication in our magazine.
