Writing Resources

Chicago Area Writing Resources

826CHI

A nonprofit writing and tutoring center for young writers in Chicago.

Just Write Chicago

A writing group that does just that–write.  I am a founder of the south side chapter.  We meet (almost) every Wednesday from 6:00-8:00pm at Bridgeport Coffee at the Hyde Park Arts Center.  We write for the first hour and a half, then chat about writing for the last half hour.

Indie City Writers

Workshopping and networking group for emerging writers, meets in Hyde Park.  Contact author K.B. Jensen for more information

Live Lit in Chicago

What is live lit?  Basically, it is writers performing their work live.  Sometimes it is along the lines of a traditional reading event, sometimes it is more along the lines of a theatrical monologue.  Generally non-fiction, five to eight minute pieces.  A wonderful way to meet other writers and get inspired.

Story Studio Chicago

Wonderful writing studio, offers classes for every level of experience.  A great way to meet other writers in Chicago and hone your skills.

Printers Row Lit Fest

Best time of the year! Author readings!  Book sales!  Workshops!  Writers running amok!

General Writing Business Resources

How to Submit a Short Story Manuscript (courtesy of Marie Brennan)

List of Markets from Poets and Writers Magazine

Scratch (blog and publication about the business of writing)

Writing Craft Resources

Posdcasts and blogs

Writing Excuses Podcast

Excellent podcast on technique, philosophy, and general nerdery about all things writing.

Writing with Color: Blog on writing diversity

Writing Prompts

Poets and Writers Writing Prompts

365 Flash Fiction Prompts

Writers’ Digest Prompts

Writing Books

A Writer’s Book of Days by Judy Reeves

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott