Writing fiction based on a true story offers a unique challenge and opportunity for authors. Blending the structure and creativity of fiction with the reality of actual events can create a compelling, emotionally rich narrative. However, it also requires care…
Writing subplots, when done thoughtfully, can deepen the story without overwhelming or confusing readers. However, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overcomplicating or derailing the main plot. The key lies in finding a balance between adding richness and…
The holiday season is often a time of celebration, reflection, and relaxation. However, for writers, it can also be a time when productivity takes a hit. With social events, travel plans, and family commitments, staying on track with your writing…
Tropes provide structure, familiarity, and a sense of comfort, helping readers navigate the narrative quickly. But as any seasoned writer knows, overusing or relying too heavily on these tropes can lead to predictability and even dullness. This is where the…
Seasonal prompts work best when approached with flexibility and creativity. Instead of treating prompts as rigid guidelines, think of them as starting points. For example, if a prompt mentions a solstice fire, you might write about the fire’s symbolic meaning,…
As an aspiring author, you’re not just a writer. You’re a wordsmith, a literary maestro, a creator of worlds—and one of the most important tools in your arsenal is dialogue. Dialogue brings your characters to life, adds depth to your…
As an author, I often seek inspiration from the world around me, and what better muse than the spirit of gratitude that permeates this time of year? If you’re an aspiring writer looking to spark your creativity, I’ve compiled a…
Retelling a story can breathe new life into well-loved tales, inviting readers to explore familiar themes through fresh perspectives and unique twists. Whether it’s a fairy tale, myth, historical event, or a beloved literary classic, a retelling gives writers a…
As a writer, the world of storytelling is vast and varied, but the traditional narrative structure is only one option. Unique writing forms allow authors to explore new ways of expressing ideas, emotions, and experiences, often creating a deeper connection…
Writing a book review is a powerful skill for any writer, not only because it helps you engage with the literary world but also because it sharpens your analytical and writing skills. Whether you’re reviewing a newly released bestseller or…
I have always loved reading and writing was a natural extension. I remember choosing my first poem book from the library as a young child. I really enjoyed it. I wrote short stories and poems throughout my life. I wrote…
Danielle Ariano was born and raised in the Philadelphia suburbs, but became a Baltimorean when she moved to the city for college. She was charmed by Baltimore’s quirky, artsy vibe. Ariano’s memoir, The Requirement of Grief, is a meditation on…
Native New Yorker and an Active Duty component of the United States Army stationed at Fairchild AFB, WA, the works of Ray Harryhausen, Robert Jordon, Robert Wise, Howard Hawks, and L. Sprague De Camp are just some of the influencers…
The Days Are Long But The Years Are Shorter: It wasn’t hard, or at least I don’t think so. In the music business, the days are very long. You spend hours and days behind the glass cage, as I like…
Jesse Stein is a Chicago-based novelist, who finds the most joy in writing stories centering around oddly magical worlds, creatures, and the poor people that inhabit these spaces. He received an MFA in Creative Writing from the School of the…
I’m working on a couple of stories as always, but I’d like to keep them a surprise until I’ve written the gist of them down. Other than that, I’m making all my characters into dolls and making other miniatures and…
Milton L. Brown’s songs have found success in radio, film, television, and social media. His songs have been recorded by artists like Blake Shelton, Jimmy Buffett, Clint Eastwood, Merle Haggard, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Ernest Tubb, Loretta Lynn, Glen Campbell,…
Jacob Reina graduated from Fresno State in December 2023 and earned a BA in English Studies. Some of his poems and short stories have been featured in New York Quarterly, Twisted Vine Literary, Free Spirit, Rougarou, Watershed Review, Allegory Ridge,…
Retired among the beaches of Florida, Dawn Bragg is an avid reader-turned-author who holds a deep passion for the literary arts. Author of numerous poems and short stories, she is a lifelong advocate for literacy. Dawn devotes her time to…
Diane holds an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a M.S. and B.S. from the University of Houston. A sagacious facilitator of student experiences, she has woven firsthand experiences into dissertation vignettes and into peer-reviewed articles: “Blue Dragonflies…