Always dreamed of writing a book, but never found the time? This November could be your opportunity, and AAPLD is ready to help!
November is National Novel Writing Month, an annual event that challenges writers of all experience levels, ages and genres to craft a 50,000 word novel or non-fiction work in 30 days.
Since NaNoWriMo’s beginning in 1999, hundreds of thousands of writers have participated. Many books that began as NaNoWriMo projects have become best-sellers, including Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and WOOL by Hugh Howey. There’s no cost to enter, and signing up is easy. Just go to nanowrimo.org
The challenge officially begins at midnight on Sunday, Nov. 1 and concludes at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 30. Participants are urged to keep a regular writing schedule, adding about 1,660 words to their project each day, and tracking their progress on the National Novel Writing Month website.
To help keep local writers motivated, AAPLD is holding virtual write-ins each Tuesday night in November, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The write-ins will be hosted by Adult Services Library Associate Elizabeth Harmon, a NaNoWriMo veteran who has published several novels—including two that were NaNoWriMo projects. Registration is required so that we can email a link to the event, but you don’t have to be an AAPLD cardholder to join.
Click below to register:
Tuesday Night Write-in, Nov. 3, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Tuesday Night Write-in, Nov. 10, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Tuesday Night Write-in, Nov. 17, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Tuesday Night Write-in, Nov. 24, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
NaNoWriMo advocates a “no plot, no problem” approach to writing, but many authors like to plan their projects ahead of time. AAPLD’s collection of writing books includes how-tos related to popular genres, and books that help you tap into your creativity and get into the writing mindset. You’ll find them in the non-fiction section, starting in the 800s. We offer a few examples below. Click on the title to learn more about the book and place a hold, or call the library for more suggestions.
Writing Down The Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg
You’ve Got A Book In You: A Stress-free Guide to Writing the Book of Your Dreams by Elizabeth Sims
Write. 10 Days to Overcome Writer’s Block. Period by Karen E. Peterson, Ph.D
You Don’t Have To Be Famous: How To Write Your Life Story by Steve Zousmer
Creative Writing Demystified by Sheila Bender
Writing a Romance Novel for Dummies by Leslie Wainger
Writing Children’s Books for Dummies by Lisa Rojany-Buccieri