10 Essential Websites for Writers
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Obviously, ten websites out of the thousands out there covering every aspect of writing is, well, the proverbial drop in the bucket. Maybe a molecule of the drop in the bucket. But below are a few I often direct writers to, or ones I enjoy myself.
I could do “10 websites for indie writers” or mystery writers, or children’s writers... you get the idea. Maybe I will make this a regular feature. The thing is, there is so much good information out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Don’t subscribe to every podcast, every newsletter. Pick one or two, try them for a while, then see if you are continuing to get good info from them.
It’s one reason why the writing and publishing world has become so competitive. Writers of every genre have upped their game significantly since the advent of the internet and the plethora of resources available.
In that case, why are MFA programs, workshops, classes and coaches still so popular? Can’t a writer learn on her own?
Yes, you can learn a lot on your own. I mean, we’re not even touching on the zillions of books about how to write and publish here. But it’s hard to learn in a haphazard way. If you get feedback in a class or workshop, it’s probably only on a tiny portion of your writing. MFA programs can be great for honing your craft and learning about the wider literary community. Working long-term with a coach can help you tackle craft issues as well as simple project management – how you get through the writing of a whole book, and bring it to publication in whatever form.
However, sometimes you just need regular inspiration, or information, or answers to a particular craft or publishing question. What you need at different stages of your writing career will change. So use these websites wisely.
One Stop for Writers – I don’t usually recommend paid sites, but this one really lives up to its name. From dealing with writer’s block, to story structure, idea generators, character builders, and a “Thesaurus” that covers – well, everything and anything you might imagine (e.g., under “Fears” there are over 50 listed, and if you click on one, it leads to a whole host of ways that fear manifests itself, emotional wounds it could stem from, conflict scenarios that offer growth opportunities, etc.). If you’re stuck or just need some new inspiration, this is the place to go. Many of the resources are free, and there is a free trial, so if you find it useful, you can subscribe to the paid version.
Writer’s Digest – I feel most people know about this one, but it’s worth mentioning. Geared toward newer writers, it offers information on craft and publishing for writers of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and writing for young people; and all genres. Prompts, articles, contests, interviews... an excellent resource, and it covers info for indie publishing writers as well.
Jane Friedman – Jane is the goddess who covers all aspects of writing and publishing today. She has a blog, podcast, classes, and different newsletters (free and paid). She wants writers to understand not just the craft but the business of writing. No matter what you’re writing, or whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned author, there is something here for you.
Wired for Story – Lisa Cron is the author of Wired for Story and Story Genius, books that explore how stories actually work in our brains. This isn’t heady, intellectual stuff- Cron brings it right down to techniques writers can use to write more compelling stories that readers connect with. She has a CreativeLive class linked in her website, as well as resources and articles that bust storytelling myths, creating powerful backstories, and “using brain science to write a riveting novel.”
Helping Writers Become Authors – K.M. Weiland is a genre (historical/fantasy/speculative) herself, so a lot of her advice is particularly good for genre writers, but her books and blog posts cover everything fiction writers need to know about story – plot and structure, character arcs and archetypes, etc. Her information is clear, concise, and gives lots of examples. If you are struggling with a craft issue, she probably has a solution on her site.
Poets & Writers – The website for the magazine of the same name; focused on literary writing (fiction/nonfiction/poetry). Articles, interviews, and databases on everything from MFA programs, to literary magazines, grants, contests, small presses, residencies... An amazing resource.
The Shit No One Tells You About Writing – This is the site for the podcast hosted by an author and two agents that really digs into the realities of the publishing world. Interviews, query critiques, courses on craft and publishing; and they even have a beta reader matchup service on the site (under “Resources”).
Grammar Girl – Whether you have a grammar question, want to learn to proofread more quickly and accurately, or want to know why some regions say “catty-corner” and others “kitty-corner,” Mignon Fogarty is your girl. Her blog and podcast cover all kinds of fascinating topics for word nerds.
FundsforWriters.com – A huge compendium of paying markets, contests, grants, etc. Free newsletter. Covers all kinds of fiction and nonfiction, as well as general freelance opportunities.
Manuscript Wishlist – If you’re looking for an agent, this is a great place to start. You can search the database for agents and editors looking for particular types of stories by keyword, genre, etc. They also offer agent consultations (for a fee), a podcast, blog, classes, and community for writers. If you’re looking to get traditionally published, it’s a terrific resource.
Are there any other favorites you would add? Let us know in the comments!
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