Shannon Messenger: Trust Your Story
Shannon Messenger graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, where she learned—among other things—that she liked watching movies much better than...
The 5 Gift Rule for Writers at Christmas
Christmas gifts are one of my favorite traditions—and so is this yearly round-up of gifts for writers at Christmas. Sometimes, however, it can be difficult...
5 Tips for Creating Character Voice Readers Will Love
“Say it again, I double-dog dare ya,” Ferret said through clenched teeth, his dark eyes narrowed.Basil replied, seemingly unfazed by his proximity to...
Join Writer’s Digest in Italy in 2025
Writer's Digest is heading to Italy in 2025, and we want you to join us! ...
A Conversation With Callan Wink on Writing and Selling Personal Essays (Killer Writers)
In spring, summer, and fall, Callan Wink can be found guiding flyfish anglers in Montana. In the winter, he surfs in Costa Rica. Callan’s new book is out...
2024 November PAD Chapbook Challenge: Next Steps
We've written the poems. Now, it's time to collect them: Here are the next steps for this year's challenge. Before you dive in, click here to read the original...
2024 November PAD Chapbook Challenge: Day 30
We've made it! Almost.For today’s prompt, write a rest poem. Maybe you're looking forward to taking a rest; maybe you're the type who never rests; maybe it's...
Yule Book Flood for Newbies
[This article first appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Writer's Digest.]You deck the halls. You fill the stockings. You bake the snowman-shaped...
How to Give Gentle and Helpful Feedback to Writers
When people ask for feedback in social media writing groups, they often preface their request with phrases like "Please be gentle" or "Please be kind." Why?...