Get Ready for National Novel Writing Month

By FPL_AmyG

It’s almost November, and you know what that means? It’s Preptober! The time of year when writers prepare to participate in National Novel Writing Month in November, better known as NaNoWriMo. The goal is straightforward–to write 50,000 words of a novel in thirty days.

The library, in partnership with Collin College in Frisco, is hosting writing events this October to help writers get ready for NaNoWriMo. We’ll also have a write-in session in November to help kickstart your writing challenge. Even if you’re not planning to participate in NaNoWriMo, these events are a great way to hone your writing skills. No registration required, just show up.

Writing Events at Frisco Public Library

Write Club: How to Publish Your First Book, opens a new window
Wednesday, October 09, 2024 | 6:30pm–8:30pm

At this month’s Write Club meeting, Dr. Sean Ferrier-Watson, an English professor at Collin College in Frisco, will be discussing How to Publish Your First Book. New writers often struggle to get their work in print. This presentation will help writers learn the ropes of publishing and will provide them with information and advice to find homes for their future book projects.

The Writing Process: Techniques for Revision, opens a new window
Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 1:00–2:30pm

Learn how to evaluate and improve your rough draft in this session focused on revision techniques, led by writer and editor Tyra Damm. Attendees can stay after for some writing and revision time.

NaNoWriMo Write-In: Preparing for NaNoWriMo, opens a new window
Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 2:30–4:30pm

Calling all writers! Get ready for NaNoWriMo with our Preptober Write-In. Each year, writers challenge themselves to write 50,000 words of a novel in thirty days. Take this time to plan for the challenge, or just take some valuable time to write. Collin College faculty members will be available to give input and advice as requested. Snacks will be provided as well.

The Short of It: What Makes a Short Story Successful?, opens a new window
Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 10:00am–12:00pm

Led by published author and editor, Jalyn Renae Fiske, this workshop will focus on the different ways one can approach writing a short story. You'll take a look at some award-winning shorts, discuss some tricks of the trade, and try your hand at crafting a great story opener.

Sisters in Crime North Dallas, opens a new window
Sunday, October 27, 2024 | 2:30–4:00pm

Join this national community of mystery writers to share advice, support, and network. Learn more about this month’s topic online at Sisters in Crime North Dallas, opens a new window.

NaNoWriMo Write-In, opens a new window
Sunday, November 03, 2024 | 11:00am–1:00pm

Come work on this year's challenge! If you're not participating in NaNoWriMo, take some valuable time to write. Collin College faculty members will be available to give input and advice as requested. Snacks will be provided as well.

Write Club, opens a new window
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 | 6:30–8:30pm

This forum of local writers meets monthly to discuss writing and publishing processes, and to hear/critique each other's work. Writers of all genres are welcome.

Writing Resources at Frisco Public Library

National Novel Writing Month Book List, opens a new window

Gale Online Courses, opens a new window 

Learn something new with 360+ instructor-led online classes. Gale Courses supports libraries as educational institutions and gives community members easy access to lifelong learning opportunities including professional development, technology, and personal enrichment courses.

Popular courses include:

    • Write Fiction Like a Pro: Learn how to use story outlines like a professional writer with lessons developed by a published author.
    • Advanced Fiction Writing: Explore advanced fiction writing techniques with a published novelist.
    • The Keys to Effective Editing: If you aspire to be an editor, this course will teach you the fundamentals of top-notch editing for both fiction and nonfiction.
    • How to Make Money From Your Writing: You really can make money with your writing. Whether you want to create your own business, add to your income, supplement your retirement, or boost what you're earning as a writer, you'll find the how-to info here.
    • Beginner's Guide to Getting Published: Published writer shows you how to give yourself the credibility you need to get your books and articles published.

Participate in the Flash Fiction contest

To participate in the Flash Fiction contest at Collin College’s Frisco campus, visit their schedule of events, opens a new window.