Writers' Corner
As a Freelance Writer for over 22years, I want to provide resources for those interested in writing in any form whether white papers, poems, song writing, fiction etc. etc., or for those wanting information about how to get published and/or about self-publishing etc.. There is a myriad of information on writing that I would love to present here. Anyone wanting to submit an event etc. can contact me at heather.rennalls@oxford.net.
Local
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Oxford County Authors
"Join host Ashley Quinton as she speaks to talented local authors from Oxford County. Community Produced by Pam Livingston. " (From Rogers TV website) Also visit Rogers TV Oxford County Facebook
"Join host Ashley Quinton as she speaks to talented local authors from Oxford County. Community Produced by Pam Livingston. " (From Rogers TV website) Also visit Rogers TV Oxford County Facebook
Writer's Workshops
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Topic: Writers of Colour: Community Time
Description: Come join NaNoWriMo for a virtual hang! We'll get to know each other as writers, share what's inspiring us, and talk about the writing life.
Anyone who joins is invited to turn your video/audio on, but y'all can leave it off if you're not feeling up to it, too. Just a heads up that we will also be using breakout rooms for those of you who, like me, need to psych yourself up for that!
Times:
May 14, 2022 1:00 PM
Jun 11, 2022 1:00 PM
Jul 9, 2022 1:00 PM
Aug 13, 2022 1:00 PM
Sep 10, 2022 1:00 PM
Oct 8, 2022 1:00 PM
Nov 12, 2022 1:00 PM
Dec 10, 2022 1:00 PM
Jan 14, 2023 1:00 PM
Description: Come join NaNoWriMo for a virtual hang! We'll get to know each other as writers, share what's inspiring us, and talk about the writing life.
Anyone who joins is invited to turn your video/audio on, but y'all can leave it off if you're not feeling up to it, too. Just a heads up that we will also be using breakout rooms for those of you who, like me, need to psych yourself up for that!
Times:
May 14, 2022 1:00 PM
Jun 11, 2022 1:00 PM
Jul 9, 2022 1:00 PM
Aug 13, 2022 1:00 PM
Sep 10, 2022 1:00 PM
Oct 8, 2022 1:00 PM
Nov 12, 2022 1:00 PM
Dec 10, 2022 1:00 PM
Jan 14, 2023 1:00 PM
Upcoming NaNoWriMo Events
Camp NaNoWriMo Virtual Write-In
Friday April 1, 1:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
Start planning your Camp NaNoWriMo project! During this hour-long livestream, we'll share a few writing prompts to help you brainstorm ideas, and you can chat with other Camp NaNo writers.
2022 Pitchapalooza Webcast
Saturday April 2, 12:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
We teamed up with The Book Doctors for this year's Pitchapalooza contest! Watch the webcast as seasoned editors Arielle Eckstut and David Sterry critique pitches and choose the winners.
Writers of Color Virtual Write-In
Tuesday April 5, 1:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
Camp NaNoWriMo Virtual Write-In
Friday April 1, 1:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
Start planning your Camp NaNoWriMo project! During this hour-long livestream, we'll share a few writing prompts to help you brainstorm ideas, and you can chat with other Camp NaNo writers.
2022 Pitchapalooza Webcast
Saturday April 2, 12:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
We teamed up with The Book Doctors for this year's Pitchapalooza contest! Watch the webcast as seasoned editors Arielle Eckstut and David Sterry critique pitches and choose the winners.
Writers of Color Virtual Write-In
Tuesday April 5, 1:00 PM PST (Your Time Zone)
Author Readings:
TBA
The Book Band News
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Book Spotlight:
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Unsettling The Great White North
Black Canadian History
Edited by Michele A. Johnson and Funké Aladejebi
About The Book:
"An exhaustive volume of leading scholarship in the field of Black Canadian history, Unsettling the Great White North highlights the diverse experiences of persons of African descent within the chronicles of Canada’s past. The book considers histories and theoretical framings within the disciplines of history, sociology, law, and cultural and gender studies to chart the mechanisms of exclusion and marginalization in "multicultural" Canada and to situate Black Canadians as speakers and agents of their own lives. Working to interrupt the myth of benign whiteness that has been deeply implanted into the country’s imagination, Unsettling the Great White North uncovers new narratives of Black life in Canada." (From
University of Toronto Press website)
University of Toronto Press website)
Biographies
Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson, Author, Editor
"Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is affiliated to Department of History, York University. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is currently providing services as Associate Professor. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed scientific papers and presented works at many national and International conferences. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson contributions have acclaimed recognition from honourable subject experts around the world. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is actively associated with different societies and academies. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson academic career is decorated with several reputed awards and funding. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson research interests include Caribbean, Social, Cultural." (From York University website)
"Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is affiliated to Department of History, York University. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is currently providing services as Associate Professor. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed scientific papers and presented works at many national and International conferences. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson contributions have acclaimed recognition from honourable subject experts around the world. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson is actively associated with different societies and academies. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson academic career is decorated with several reputed awards and funding. Dr. Michele Antoinette Johnson research interests include Caribbean, Social, Cultural." (From York University website)
Dr. Funké Aladejebi, Author, Co-Editor
Dr."Funké Aladejebi is a scholar of the twentieth century with a specialization in Black Canadian history. Her research and teaching interests focus on oral history, the history of education in Canada, Black Canadian women’s history, and transnationalism. Her recently published book, Schooling the System: A History of Black Women Teachers (MQUP, 2021), explores the importance of Black Canadian women in sustaining their communities and preserving a distinct Black identity within restrictive gender and racial barriers. Her writing frequently explores how legacies of race, gender, and migration influence the contemporary educational encounters of Black Canadian communities. Her articles on Black Canadian history and feminist pedagogies have appeared in Education Matters, Ontario History, and the Southern Journal of Canadian Studies. She is also currently co-editing with Dr. Michele Johnson, a collection of essays titled, Unsettling the Great White North: African Canadian History (UTP, 2022), which explores the histories of African Canadian, Canadian, and African Diasporic communities across chronological, regional and thematic subjects."
(From University of Toronto website)
Dr."Funké Aladejebi is a scholar of the twentieth century with a specialization in Black Canadian history. Her research and teaching interests focus on oral history, the history of education in Canada, Black Canadian women’s history, and transnationalism. Her recently published book, Schooling the System: A History of Black Women Teachers (MQUP, 2021), explores the importance of Black Canadian women in sustaining their communities and preserving a distinct Black identity within restrictive gender and racial barriers. Her writing frequently explores how legacies of race, gender, and migration influence the contemporary educational encounters of Black Canadian communities. Her articles on Black Canadian history and feminist pedagogies have appeared in Education Matters, Ontario History, and the Southern Journal of Canadian Studies. She is also currently co-editing with Dr. Michele Johnson, a collection of essays titled, Unsettling the Great White North: African Canadian History (UTP, 2022), which explores the histories of African Canadian, Canadian, and African Diasporic communities across chronological, regional and thematic subjects."
(From University of Toronto website)
Dr. Funké Aladejebi (Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
Reviews
"Unsettling the Great White North, the first volume of its kind, is an impressive collection in depth, scope, and quality. Twenty-one authors centre and make visible the experiences of African Canadians, including recent migrants (Rwandans and other continental Africans). Collectively, albeit with different emphases, these authors bear witness to histories of exclusion and marginalization while simultaneously underscoring African Canadians as agents of their own lives. Unsettling the Great White North clears up any misconception regarding African Canadians’ contributions to Canada’s nation-building enterprise. An authoritative text that is accessible to and suitable for both academic and general audiences interested in Black Canadian Studies and history."
~ Karen Flynn, Associate Professor of Gender and Women's Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and author of Moving beyond Borders: A History of Black Canadian and Caribbean Women in the Diaspora
“This timely collection challenges any remaining conception of the Great White North as a refuge from anti-Black violence and exclusion. Documenting the long and varied histories of endurance, negotiation, and resistance against racism among persons of African descent, this volume not only challenges any conception of the Black Canadian experience as ‘linear, unchanging, homogenous, and recent,’ it also offers a vital corrective to the erasure of Black Canadians from the national myths about who ‘we’ are, and who ‘we’ can become. Truly a must read!"
~ Beverley Mullings, Professor of Geography and Planning, Queen’s University
"This is essential reading for all Canadians. Michele A. Johnson and Funké Aladejebi, two formidable scholars, have collated and edited a perfect mix of essays focused on Black Canadian history. These documented Black Canadian stories can now be shared and debated, bringing about awareness of the Black Canadian presence – indeed Unsettling the Great White North."
~ Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine P.C., C.M., O.Ont., C.B.E., First Black Canadian Woman elected to the Parliament of Canada, Proposed the motion to designate February as Black History Month in Canada (From University of Toronto Press website)
~ Karen Flynn, Associate Professor of Gender and Women's Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and author of Moving beyond Borders: A History of Black Canadian and Caribbean Women in the Diaspora
“This timely collection challenges any remaining conception of the Great White North as a refuge from anti-Black violence and exclusion. Documenting the long and varied histories of endurance, negotiation, and resistance against racism among persons of African descent, this volume not only challenges any conception of the Black Canadian experience as ‘linear, unchanging, homogenous, and recent,’ it also offers a vital corrective to the erasure of Black Canadians from the national myths about who ‘we’ are, and who ‘we’ can become. Truly a must read!"
~ Beverley Mullings, Professor of Geography and Planning, Queen’s University
"This is essential reading for all Canadians. Michele A. Johnson and Funké Aladejebi, two formidable scholars, have collated and edited a perfect mix of essays focused on Black Canadian history. These documented Black Canadian stories can now be shared and debated, bringing about awareness of the Black Canadian presence – indeed Unsettling the Great White North."
~ Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine P.C., C.M., O.Ont., C.B.E., First Black Canadian Woman elected to the Parliament of Canada, Proposed the motion to designate February as Black History Month in Canada (From University of Toronto Press website)
Meet five innovative U of T professors who are rethinking their classrooms
New book touted as a vital contribution to Black Canadian historical studies
Michele Johnson wins York University Teaching Award
NaNo Prep Season is Here! Are you getting ready to write with us this November?
"Whether this is your first time tackling a novel or your fifteenth, our NaNo Prep 101 Workshop is ready to help you prepare to reach your goal.
This September and October, we'll provide focused NaNo Prep activities for you to use to dive into your imagination and get to know your story better. By the time November rolls around, we hope you'll be more prepared than ever to reach 50,000 words on your novel draft."
"Whether this is your first time tackling a novel or your fifteenth, our NaNo Prep 101 Workshop is ready to help you prepare to reach your goal.
This September and October, we'll provide focused NaNo Prep activities for you to use to dive into your imagination and get to know your story better. By the time November rolls around, we hope you'll be more prepared than ever to reach 50,000 words on your novel draft."
Every week, tackle one straightforward preparation exercise.
If you feel like you can do even more, check out that week’s additional resources… then come discuss how your weekly NaNo Prep is going on our forums.
The Course Outline
If you feel like you can do even more, check out that week’s additional resources… then come discuss how your weekly NaNo Prep is going on our forums.
The Course Outline
- Develop a Story Idea (September 12-18)
- Create Complex Characters (September 19-25)
- Construct a Detailed Plot or Outline (September 26 – October 2)
- Build a Strong World (October 3-7)
- Organize Your Life for Writing! (October 10-16)
- Find and Manage Your Time (October 18-24)
Conferences
The Book and Periodical Council (BPC) - "The Umbrella Organization for Writing and Publishing in Canada. The BPC acts as a forum for its members to network, identify common goals and coordinate action to benefit the Canadian writing and publishing industry." (From website) This site lists academic, editing, library, publishing & writing conferences.
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TBA
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"The Ontario Writers’ Conference is dedicated to the celebration of writing by inspiring, educating & connecting writers of all levels; providing participants with an opportunity to network with writers and other publishing professionals; and encouraging writers to publish, promote and sell their work." (From Ontario Writer's Conference website)
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TBA
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38 Canadian writing conferences and literary festivals:
5 Helpful Writing Resources for the First-Time Author
The Hardest Question for a Writer: "What Do You Write About?"
The Hardest Question for a Writer: "What Do You Write About?"
- CanWrite! - allows writers to meet with people of like interest from across the country
- Professional Writers Association Annual Conference - includes a mix of professional and social activities.
- The Writers’ Union of Canada Conference and AGM - consists of panels, lectures & workshops all open to the public
- Write! Canada - an annual three-day meeting of Christian writers in Guelph, Ontario
Contests
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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TBA
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- Canadian Authors - lists of Canadian contests and opportunities
- Contests for short fiction & poetry
- Dreamers Writing Contest - Stories of Migration, Sense of Place and Home, Deadline: January 31, 2020
- FreelanceWriting - Writing Contests - Poetry, Short Story, Essay, Screenwriting & More
Creative Writing Camps
Events
- Freedom to Read - Freedom to read can never be taken for granted even in Canada
- TD Canadian Children's Book Week - connects Canadian authors & illustrators with children & teens across Canada
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AAWW Asian American Writers' Workshop
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RSVP HERE
"This February, we’re welcoming a powerhouse line-up of Asian American novelists to the Workshop’s virtual stage, featuring Jessamine Chan, Jean Chen Ho, and Weike Wang in conversation on their highly anticipated 2022 releases, The School for Good Mothers, Fiona and Jane, and Joan is Okay. Jessamine, Jean, and Weike will join us to discuss humanity and womanhood, exploring connections between their individual and collective work." |
RSVP HERE
"The Asian American Writers' Workshop, in partnership with PEN America and Singapore Unbound, will convene a bilingual reading of work from the forthcoming anthology Picking Off New Shoots Will Not Stop the Spring: Witness Poems and Essays from Burma/Myanmar 1988-2021, followed by a conversation with editors Brian Haman and Ko Ko Thett, and contributors Ma Thida and Mae Yway on the anthology and the state of free expression in Myanmar." (From AAWW website) |
Festivals
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The Writers' Union of Canada
The Writers' Union of Canada "is the national organization of professionally published book authors. The Union was founded in 1973 to work with governments, publishers, booksellers, and readers to improve the conditions of Canadian writers."
For a full list of Canadian Festivals and Reading Series throughout Canada visit The Writers' Union of Canada website.)
The Writers' Union of Canada "is the national organization of professionally published book authors. The Union was founded in 1973 to work with governments, publishers, booksellers, and readers to improve the conditions of Canadian writers."
For a full list of Canadian Festivals and Reading Series throughout Canada visit The Writers' Union of Canada website.)
- BookFest Windsor
- Canadian Festival of Spoken Word (CFSW)
- gritLIT - is Hamilton’s annual literary festival, a four-day celebration of Canadian authors
- International Festival of Writers (IFOA) - is a celebration of words and ideas, of writers and readers.
- Kingston WritersFest
- Literacy Arts Windsor - to recognize, read, and celebrate Canadian authors
- The Festival of Literacy Diversity (FOLD)
- The Word On The Street - renowned for the quality and diversity of its event programming
- The Toronto International Festival of Authors - Canada’s largest & longest-running celebration of words & ideas
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TBA
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TBA
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TBA
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"Storytellers of Canada-Conteurs du Canada (SC-CC) is devoted to connecting people, reflecting culture, and inspiring learning and creativity through the art of storytelling." (From Storytellers of Canada website)
Local Writing Groups
- Woodstock Writer’s Circle - meets the 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month at the Woodstock Public Library, 445 Hunter St., Woodstock, ON, from 6:00 – 8:15 p.m. in the Meeting Room, next meetings: TBA
- Thamesford The Write Stuff - meets the 3rd Thursday each month at the Thamesford Public Library, 165 Dundas St., Thamesford, ON, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., next meeting: TBA
Virtual Writing Groups
- CAFE 1842 – INFORMAL WRITING GROUP - "This is an ongoing, informal writing group that is now a virtual one. We write, talk and inspire each other. Everyone is very welcome! Please connect with us on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87492232243" Meets every Mondays from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
- Cambridge Authors are invited to attend monthly meetings, either via video conference or face-to-face, that take place the first Tuesday of every month from 7-9pm. They are also welcome to join the private Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1602147873421603 where members are free to share positive and helpful stories and advice.
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Digital Programs for Adults
"Join us on our YouTube channel as we concoct some creative crafting projects . We have a new lineup of holiday and winter adult crafts planned!" (From Woodstock Public Library website)
Zoom Armchair Travel
"Escape on a travel adventure from the comfort of your home this winter! Our guests will share pictures of the highlights from their travels, followed by a question and answer period. Register monthly for your personalized Zoom invitation." (From Woodstock Public Library website)
Pub Trivia - Kahoot
"While we can't meet at Upper Thames Brewing Company right now, the fun continues online! Join us for a virtual version of Pub Trivia, where you can test your smarts against other trivia enthusiasts. Participants will need a stable internet connection. Links will be posted on social media 30 minutes before the program begins." (From Woodstock Public Library website)
High Notes Movie Club - Monthly Zoom Group
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"Lively, interactive discussions about uplifting movies for those touched by mental illness.
Hosted by Emmanuel Lopez aka Motivatorman, award-winning Illustrator & Movie Blogger, Speaker and Social Media Influencer & Consultant, www.MoviesForMotivation.com. Emmanuel has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, CBC Radio and The Globe & Mail. Emmanuel shares his lived-experience with clinical/seasonal depression and his easy-to-use tips for self care & self motivation. He inspires individuals to increase their resilience and indestructible optimism through the magic of cinema!" (From High Notes website)
Hosted by Emmanuel Lopez aka Motivatorman, award-winning Illustrator & Movie Blogger, Speaker and Social Media Influencer & Consultant, www.MoviesForMotivation.com. Emmanuel has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, CBC Radio and The Globe & Mail. Emmanuel shares his lived-experience with clinical/seasonal depression and his easy-to-use tips for self care & self motivation. He inspires individuals to increase their resilience and indestructible optimism through the magic of cinema!" (From High Notes website)
Writing Retreats
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Algonquin Park Writing Retreat at Arowhon Pines Resort
Friday June 3 – Monday June 6, 2022
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"Give yourself a long weekend of writing time – a weekend of instruction, inspiration and creativity. Award yourself with time away from distractions, with no dishes to do and wonderful food at every meal, as you sit with your feet up and write in the most beautiful wilderness setting in Ontario. This is where the Group of Seven got its inspiration (Tom Thompson is buried just a couple of lakes over); it’s a wonderful place for you to find your inspiration, too." (From Quick Brown Fox website)
For more information or to register, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
For more information or to register, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
October in Muskoka Writing Retreat
Friday October 14 – Monday October 17, 2022
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"Give yourself four days of writing time – a long weekend of instruction, inspiration and creativity. Award yourself with time away from distractions, with no dishes to do, delicious food at every meal, and with the leisure you need to sit with your feet up and write.
The retreat will feature both instruction and guided writing exercises, plus one-on-one critiquing and coaching from Brian. You’ll also have lots of time to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with your creativity. All writing levels welcome. Whether you’re just beginning or have a novel in progress, please join us." (From Quick Brown Fox website)
The retreat will feature both instruction and guided writing exercises, plus one-on-one critiquing and coaching from Brian. You’ll also have lots of time to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with your creativity. All writing levels welcome. Whether you’re just beginning or have a novel in progress, please join us." (From Quick Brown Fox website)
Friday October 14 – Monday October 17, 2022
Sherwood Inn on Lake Joseph
1090 Sherwood Road, Port Carling, Ontario, Canada
For more information or to register, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
Sherwood Inn on Lake Joseph
1090 Sherwood Road, Port Carling, Ontario, Canada
For more information or to register, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
Toronto Peoples' Library
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Toronto People's Library - A movement striving to amplify literary works + stories by people from our BIPOC communities.
Links to Freelance Writing Jobs
- ARC POETRY MAGAZINE - Canada's Poetry Magazine
- Aspiring Canadian Poets Contest - Recognizing & Developing Unpublished Canadian Poets
- Canadian Festival of Spoken Word
- CBC Books - Home for writers and original writing
- Event Poetry and Prose - Western Canada’s longest-running literary magazines
- Hamilton Poetry Centre - Established in 1983, supports & encourage the writing & appreciation of poetry
- League of Canadian Poets - Supporting poets & poetry in Canada
- National Poetry Month
- Poetry in Voice (Les voix de la poésie) - Ensures all Canadians speak the language of poetry
- Poetry Institute of Canada - Celebrating uniting writers & poets
- Poetry London
- Poets & Writers - American, has tools for writers
- Spring Pulse Poetry Festival - Northern Ontario’s largest poetry/arts festival
- The Art Bar - Canada's longest running poetry-only, weekly reading series
- The Artists of Colour - Telling Our Stories Through Art
- The Griffin Trust For Excellence In Poetry - Raise awareness of poetry plays in our cultural life
- The Ontario Poetry Society - Provides support & encouragement in all aspects of poetry
- Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) - Canada’s largest and longest-running festival of words and ideas
- Toronto Poetry Slam - A twice-monthly spoken word competition judged on poems presented, all ages
- Tower Poetry Society - A non-profit organization established to promote poetry and encourage poets since 1951
- Young Writers - A site for young writers
Poetry Contests:
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Poem of the Year Contest
TBA
Arc Poetry Magazine Contests:
- Aspiring Canadian Poets Contest - Recognizing and Developing Unpublished Canadian Poets
- Contests for short fiction & poetry
- Dreamers Haiku Contest -
- Freelance Writing - Helping freelance writers to succeed since 1997
Poetry Conferences
League of Canadian Poets Annual Poetry Festival and Conference - Hosted each year in a different Canadian city
Poetry Publications
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Tower Poetry - publishes a poetry book twice a year, summer and winter. Deadlines for TOWER POETRY submissions are February 28th for the Summer issue and August 31st for the Winter issue each year. Submit by email to: info@towerpoetry.ca." (For further information on Submission)
Poetry Reading
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Antler River Poetry (formerly Poetry London) Readings 2022 Season
Poetry Workshops: Zoom Workshops
"Usually at 6:00 p.m., one hour before poetry readings.
Enrollment is limited. Please register by email.
PRE-COVID
Downstairs at the Landon Branch library, 167 Wortley Rd.
6:00pm (one hour prior to each Poetry London featured reading)
Prior to each of our readings, the Poetry London workshop coordinator facilitates a discussion of selected poems by the evening’s featured poets, and also the work of two workshop participants. Those interested are encouraged to bring a poem – poems are looked at on a rotating basis amongst the participants.
Non-writers will benefit from the discussion too! Please come out – we’re a friendly bunch!
Free, and no registration required.
Enrollment is limited. Please register by email.
PRE-COVID
Downstairs at the Landon Branch library, 167 Wortley Rd.
6:00pm (one hour prior to each Poetry London featured reading)
Prior to each of our readings, the Poetry London workshop coordinator facilitates a discussion of selected poems by the evening’s featured poets, and also the work of two workshop participants. Those interested are encouraged to bring a poem – poems are looked at on a rotating basis amongst the participants.
Non-writers will benefit from the discussion too! Please come out – we’re a friendly bunch!
Free, and no registration required.
Poetry Workshops
The Hamilton Poetry Centre Workshops
"The Hamilton Poetry Centre offers free public workshops throughout the year. These are a place to share your work in progress and receive supportive and thoughtful feedback from your peers. New and experienced poets welcome!
Please bring 12-15 copies of one poem to share with fellow workshop participants.
Workshop dates: the following Thursdays from 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.
Workshop location:
Westdale Branch of Hamilton Public Library, 955 King St. West, Hamilton, Ontario
Telephone: (905) 546-3456 (From Hamilton Poetry Centre website)
Please bring 12-15 copies of one poem to share with fellow workshop participants.
Workshop dates: the following Thursdays from 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.
- TBA
Workshop location:
Westdale Branch of Hamilton Public Library, 955 King St. West, Hamilton, Ontario
Telephone: (905) 546-3456 (From Hamilton Poetry Centre website)
Tower Poetry Society
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2022 Workshop Schedule
"TPs workshop meetings are open to the public. For workshops held via Microsoft Teams, please observe the following procedures: Send an email to info@towerpoetry.ca and put in the Subject Line, “Request to Participate”.
Your email address will be noted, and the link will be sent to you on the morning of the workshop. If you would like to submit one poem for critique during the workshop, please include it as an attachment to your email, in pdf format. Your “Request to Participate” must be received by the Thursday prior to the workshop date.
Saturday October 16, 2022 – via Microsoft Teams, 2 p.m.
(NOTE date change to one week later because of Thanksgiving weekend)
No workshops are held in the summer months." (From Tower Poetry Society website)
Your email address will be noted, and the link will be sent to you on the morning of the workshop. If you would like to submit one poem for critique during the workshop, please include it as an attachment to your email, in pdf format. Your “Request to Participate” must be received by the Thursday prior to the workshop date.
Saturday October 16, 2022 – via Microsoft Teams, 2 p.m.
(NOTE date change to one week later because of Thanksgiving weekend)
No workshops are held in the summer months." (From Tower Poetry Society website)
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TORONTO POETRY SLAM is a twice-monthly spoken word competition, where the judges vote on each poem presented. Open to a all ages to attend, compete/perform on stage.
Home venue is the Drake Hotel Underground, 1150 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON (From the Toronto Poetry Slam website)
Home venue is the Drake Hotel Underground, 1150 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON (From the Toronto Poetry Slam website)
Dwayne Morgan Creates
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Check out Dwayne Morgan's YouTube channel for his latest videos
YouTube Links of Live Performances
- I Am A Tribute - Opening Spoken Word piece of Tribute a Dance Show on the history of Blacks in Dance in Canada
- Black Woman recorded for International Womens's Day 2021
- Why Black Women Whisper at Spoken Soulfest 2019
- What Happens When the Unstoppable Ball Hits the Immovable Pole -Poetic Storytelling at UWI in Trinidad for Ink Quest - a poem written during intermission based on the theme of a poem performed by another poet in the first half of the show
- Amani works with Wordsmiths in Trinidad on Spoken Word Performance Piece
- WORD UP Intro - June 2011 (From Imani Arts Biz)
(Image from LinkedIn)
Dwayne Morgan, winner of the $10K Celebration of Cultural Life Award from the Toronto Arts Foundation on April 25, 2022.
Congratulations Dwayne!
Congratulations Dwayne!
US Mint begins shipping quarters honoring Maya Angelou
Author of The Autobiography Of Miss Jane Pittman Ernest J. Gaines, Dies At Age 86
January 15, 1933 - November 5, 2019
Remembering Toni Morrison
February 18, 1931 - August 5, 2019
Remembering Derek Walcott
January 23, 1930 - March 17, 2017
Nobel Prize-winning Poet & Playwright
Publishing Links
- Access Copyright - a collective voice of creators and publishers in Canada writers, visual artists & publishers
- Agent Query.com - The Internet's largest free database of literary agents
- Ask a Literary Agent – An agent and author answers aspiring authors’ questions about writing & getting published
- Author's Publish - a free copy of their eBook "Submit, Publish, Repeat"
- Editors’ Association of Canada - The Voice of Canadian Editors
- Oxford County Library - offers resources for independent authors
- Publishers Archive.com - Directory of book publishers, literary awards, book events & more, American
- Pub Rants – American blog with writing & publishing tips
- The Book and Periodical Council (BPC) - The Umbrella Organization for Publishing in Canada
- Windsor Public Library
- Writer's Guild of Canada - List of Agents
- Writer's Relief, Author's Submission Service - American
Workshops
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Check out the various workshop and course schedule for all levels of writers listed on Brian Henry's website Quick Brown Fox.
Online Welcome to Creative Writing class Tuesday afternoons, Sept 28 – Dec 7
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Weekly Classes
Online: Writing Little Kid Lit: Board books, picture books, chapter books, and middle grade,
Monday afternoons, 1 – 3 p.m. April 11 – June 20 {no class May 23 or June 6}. Details here.
Online: Welcome to Creative Writing, Monday evenings, 7 – 9 p.m. April 11 – June 20
{no class May 23 or June 6}. Details here.
Online: Writing Personal Stories, Tuesday afternoons, 1 – 3 p.m. April 12 – June 21
{no class June 7} Details here.
In-person: Welcome to Creative Writing, Thursday evenings, 7 – 9 p.m, April 14 – June 21,
{no class June 7}, in Burlington, Ontario. Details here.
Detail of spring Intensive classes to come soon.
To reserve your spot, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
(From Quick Brown Fox website)
Monday afternoons, 1 – 3 p.m. April 11 – June 20 {no class May 23 or June 6}. Details here.
Online: Welcome to Creative Writing, Monday evenings, 7 – 9 p.m. April 11 – June 20
{no class May 23 or June 6}. Details here.
Online: Writing Personal Stories, Tuesday afternoons, 1 – 3 p.m. April 12 – June 21
{no class June 7} Details here.
In-person: Welcome to Creative Writing, Thursday evenings, 7 – 9 p.m, April 14 – June 21,
{no class June 7}, in Burlington, Ontario. Details here.
Detail of spring Intensive classes to come soon.
To reserve your spot, email: brianhenry@sympatico.ca
(From Quick Brown Fox website)
(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
Check out Firefly Creative Writing Workshops & Retreats
BIPOC Stay At Home Writing Retreat
A weekend-long Stay At Home Retreat run for and by People of Colour
(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
Hello Firefly community!
"It’s Asifa, Kim and Mary here, three of the coaches at Firefly. We are thrilled to offer a “Stay At Home Retreat” for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC)
to come together, write, connect, exhale, explore, and lovingly witness each other’s words.
Our goal is to create space for and with People of Colour to lean into our writing voices. There will be room to wade into the themes that don’t get a lot of attention in predominantly white circles such as white supremacy, microaggressions, immigration, colourism, racism, colonialism, intersectionality, and the complexity and contours of our identities as we define them. But you can also decide not to dive into these topics and just enjoy writing for the sake of it. We'll spend lots of time just having fun with words.
This will be a weekend of writing in the moment, sharing, and getting full-hearted, supportive feedback from one another. We’ll use guided visualizations, silent writing time, and discussion to invite our creativity to play. We’ll also have plenty of screen breaks and chances to share in small groups.
This is our first time all facilitating together, and we’re excited to work as a team of three around a (virtual) table with people who get it, who don’t question each other’s lived experience and have likely experienced many of the same things.
Beginner and seasoned writers are very welcome!"
(From Firefly Creative Writing website)
"It’s Asifa, Kim and Mary here, three of the coaches at Firefly. We are thrilled to offer a “Stay At Home Retreat” for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC)
to come together, write, connect, exhale, explore, and lovingly witness each other’s words.
Our goal is to create space for and with People of Colour to lean into our writing voices. There will be room to wade into the themes that don’t get a lot of attention in predominantly white circles such as white supremacy, microaggressions, immigration, colourism, racism, colonialism, intersectionality, and the complexity and contours of our identities as we define them. But you can also decide not to dive into these topics and just enjoy writing for the sake of it. We'll spend lots of time just having fun with words.
This will be a weekend of writing in the moment, sharing, and getting full-hearted, supportive feedback from one another. We’ll use guided visualizations, silent writing time, and discussion to invite our creativity to play. We’ll also have plenty of screen breaks and chances to share in small groups.
This is our first time all facilitating together, and we’re excited to work as a team of three around a (virtual) table with people who get it, who don’t question each other’s lived experience and have likely experienced many of the same things.
Beginner and seasoned writers are very welcome!"
(From Firefly Creative Writing website)
This retreat will be offered again next winter.
Click here if you’d like to get on our list for early bird registration for future seasons or sign up for our newsletter here.
Click here if you’d like to get on our list for early bird registration for future seasons or sign up for our newsletter here.
Writer's Clubs with Membership
- London Writer’s Society - Since April of 2020, our meetings are online Zoom format. To participate subscribe to our newsletter to be informed of meeting details, including topic and Zoom procedures.
- The Sudbury Writers’ Guild - check them out on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/SudburyWritersGuild/
- The Writers’ Community of Simcoe County - meets 3rd Sunday each month at Down by the Bay, 121 Mississauga St. E., Orillia, ON, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- Ottawa Romance Writers - Our members-only meetings are a discussion of Ottawa Romance Writers business, upcoming events, and the goings-on in the romance writing world (1:00-2:15pm).
Writer's Groups
Writing Jobs
- Brian Scott - Subscribe to his Morning Coffee Newsletter
- Brian Scott - Video tutorials on "How to Start A Successful Freelance Writing Career"
- Canadian Freelance Writing Jobs - Jobs for Canadian Writers
- Savvy Writers & e-Books online - 11 Websites to Find Freelance Writing Jobs
- The Book and Periodical Council - lists online job boards
Writing Links
- Brian Henry - check out his creative writing courses & workshops
- Brian Scott - a wealth of information including jobs, writing & poetry contests
- Canada Arts Connect - opportunities, resources & more
- Canadian Authors - writers helping writers since 1921
- Canadian Links of Interest to Writers - an extensive list
- Canadian Literature - a Quarterly of Criticism and Review
- Canadian Writer's Journal - an annotated list of internet links & information useful to writers
- Clear Writing Literacy - Literacy information & referral network
- Diaspora Dialogues (DD) - supports diverse writers to turn their craft into a career
- Dreamers Creative Writing - dedicated to writing that is from the heart
- Firefly Creative Writing - offering cozy and joyful creative writing workshops & coaching in Toronto, Ontario
- Freefall Writing
- A Guide to Effective Instruction in Writing Kindergarten to Grade 3
- The Book Band - places new authors and ideas into your hands
- The League of Canadian Poets
- Library Archives of Canada
- Morel Magazine - a forum celebrating Southwestern Ontario
- National Film Board of Canada
- Professional Writers Association of Canada - Serve Canadian non-fiction freelance writers across the country
- Storytellers of Canada – Conteurs du Canada is devoted to connecting people, reflecting culture, and inspiring learning and creativity through the art of storytelling.
- The Ontario Writers' Conference
- The Other Side of the Story – an informative blog with over 500 articles on writing fiction
- Silver Pen Writers Society
- Storytellers of Canada -supports the art of oral storytelling through its storytellers & listeners
- Wine Writers' Circle of Canada
- Word Writes Canada - Canadian Links of Interest to Writers, an extensive list
- Writescape ...escape to write
- Writer's Circle - Blog on writing tips
- The Book and Periodical Council -
- The Eyeopener - Ryerson University’s independent student newspaper, and has been since 1967
- The Word Guild - Growing Communities of Christian Writers Across Canada
- The Writers' Community of Durham Region - offers forum where writers can find support, education & networking
- Writers Guild of Canada
- The Write Life - American, helps writers create, connect & earn
- Writer's Resources - American, lists of websites, books etc. for writers
- The Writers’ Trust of Canada - to advance, nurture & celebrate Canadian writers & writing
- The Writer’s Union of Canada
- Toronto Romance Writers (TRW) - a robust branch of Romance Writers of America founded in 1986
Writing Retreats
(Image courtesy of/& used with permission)
International Conferences/Workshops
- Abroad Writers’ Conference
This summit of international authors and aspiring writers features conferences led by some of the worlds most talented authors, journalist, poets, playwrights, screenwriters and literary agents. Stimulating talks, interviews, readings, Q&As and workshops. - ASJA Writers Conference
The American Society of Journalists and Authors annual writers conference is one of the premier events in the United States for professional independent writers, with more than 600 attendees each year. - Freefall Writing Calendar 2019/20
- Geneva Writers’ Conference
The international conference brings together English-language writers for high-level instruction, inspiration, support, advice, networking and feedback. Writing genres covered include fiction, creative non-fiction, children’s writing and poetry. (From The Book and Periodical Council (The BPC))
Writer's Quote
(Image from the Internet)
(Image from the Internet)
Tip 9: Use active voice.
"Writing in active voice animates your writing so that the subject is acting on its verb. An active voice reads as being more confident and self-assured; it’s also a great way to shave superfluous words from your writing." (From 30 Writing Tips To Make Writing Easier website by Karen Hertzberg)
"Writing in active voice animates your writing so that the subject is acting on its verb. An active voice reads as being more confident and self-assured; it’s also a great way to shave superfluous words from your writing." (From 30 Writing Tips To Make Writing Easier website by Karen Hertzberg)
Quote: “The idea is to write it so that people hear it and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart.” ~ Maya Angelou ~
