Hi Friends,
How’s your week going?
As most of you in the writing world probably know, this week is AWP – the writing conference of writers and writing programs, held in a different city every year. This year the nation’s lit mag readers and writers are headed to Kansas City. I’m feeling a little jealous.
The last AWP I attended was in 2016, but I can’t help getting excited when I see the social media posts from all the vendors setting up their booths at the book fair and the writers checking into their conference hotels. I know how inspiring it is to be a part of that mass of thousands of writers descending on a city with readings, chapbook launches, and awkward meetups. Exploring a city, signature AWP tote bag on your shoulder (IYKYK), to scout the very best bookstores and coffee shops, and share a drink with the editors (celebrities!) you’ve been sending your stories and poetry to. It is absolutely the best way to experience a city.
If you’re travelling to AWP today, I hope you have a wonderful time. And don’t forget to post some photos (or quotes!) for those of us living vicariously through you.
This Week I’m:
Reading: Come and Get it by Kiley Reid
Watching: Argylle (not great, but still a fun time at the movies)
Listening to: a few days ago I put Tempted by Squeeze into my apple music, and the AI generated a playlist I’ve been listening to ever since. It’s a good February out-and-about mix. (Let me know if you have a can’t-miss playlist starting song for your music app of choice)
Take a Class with Me:
This Saturday I’m so excited to be teaching a virtual class on flash fiction. It’s my very favorite genre to teach because so many writers go from zero to published right away once they’re introduced to it. If you need a bump of encouragement in your writing, this is it. It really will be a jumpstarter.
Jumpstart Your Flash Fiction meets on zoom this Saturday, February 10th from 10:30-1:30pm EST. Sign up at https://grubstreet.org/findaclass/class/jumpstart-your-flash-fiction/
Thanks for reading!
Kayleigh