June 2019

Lilly Dancyger

A writer's argument for political correctness

By Lilly Dancyger

Choosing our words carefully creates a welcoming space on the page for all readers – and it makes for better writing, too.

Features

Re-breaking the bone

By Maxine Kaplan

In theory, we all know revision is hard. In practice, it’s downright devastating…but your manuscript will be all the stronger for the pain.

Creative distractions

By Josh Sippie

Are your hobbies helping or hurting your writing?

Who should I be reading right now?’

By Jack Smith

Add these recommended novelists to your summer reading list immediately.

Finding joy in the process

By Toni Fitzgerald

Ross Gay spins essays and poems by observing the world around him and questioning his relationship to it. He is delighted by what he sees.

How to pitch like a pro

By Melissa Petro

A seasoned freelancer’s quick-and-dirty guide to getting published.

Departments

FROM THE FRONT LINES

Flatlining

By Yi Shun Lai

Boring characters make for boring narratives: here’s how to fix them.

FREELANCE SUCCESS

Here’s the pitch…again?!

By Pete Croatto

The follow-up email is a staple of freelance writing life. A big part of mastering it? Knowing when to stop.

OFF THE CUFF

No writer is an island

By Melissa Hart

How collaboration – and a dose of humility – can improve a book.

LITERARY SPOTLIGHT

Sanibel Island Writers Conference

By Melissa Hart

CONFERENCE INSIDER

The Spectacle

By Melissa Hart