Hoy, les quiero compartir esta free stanzas que titulé I’m an Island. Las escribí recientemente, en el taller de escritura creativa que organizó Muse Art.
The Stories We Share Zine, Volumen 2. Los proyectos de The Stories We Share fueron posibles gracias al apoyo de @Toronto Arts Council a través del Programa de Participación de Recién Llegados y Refugiados #poweredbytac @canada.council
Mi amiga, Catalina me animó a grabarme leyendo mis textos en Inglés(aunque no me siento cómoda leyendo en este idioma aún, me vestí de valor y se los comparto). Gracias. Y espero que me dejen sus comentarios. Gracias.
I’m an Island
I’m an Island
I’m an Island from the Caribbean
dreaming in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean,
I’m a piece of my motherland
unsettled in the cold water of the grand Lake Ontario,
I’m an island with a thousand sounds and a soft breeze,
I’m an island with bloom dandelions and bird songs,
I’m an Island with numerous rivers, waterfalls; palm forests, in the middle of another land called Turtle Island,
Like Ithaka waiting for my inhabitants to return to me.
Aquí, pueden leer las demás historias, poesías de las participantes. Fue un grupo hermoso.
Because race matters in freelancing — and most industries — writer and strategist Megan Williams created this website to show Black writers and writers of color that it’s possible to branch out on their own and successfully work outside of traditional employment. The BlackFreelance community provides freelancers of any level a place to go to learn about content marketing, ways to build better writing habits, how to run an effective freelance business and more.
Danielle Wilkinson is a YA writer who uses her blog to inspire readers the way her favorite authors have inspired her. As she chips away at her goal of authorship, Danielle invites readers along her writing journey. On her site, you can learn from her writing logs, where she gives you an inside look into her writing and pitching process. Plus, in addition to the free downloads she provides, her blog is chock full of articles that break down the story structures of popular romance and superhero films.
Chicago-based freelance journalist Tatiana Walk-Morris has written for notorious magazines like The New York Times, Vice Magazine, Harvard University’s Nieman Reports and more — that, alone, tells you she’s an expert to learn from. Her website for writers is filled with blog posts that explore the triumphs and challenges freelance journalists experience in their early and mid-careers. If you’re taking the plunge into freelancing, there’s a lot you could learn from Tatiana’s advice and personal reflections.
Yuwanda Black has earned money from her content since 2002, and she’s worked in the publishing industry for more than 30 years. As a successful author, content marketer and developer, Yuwanda wants writers to know they can lead rich careers as freelancers, too. That’s why Inkwell Editorial provides a wealth of information for writers who want to learn about SEO, social media, self-publishing, affiliate marketing, plus, how to make money through freelance work.
Although this website isn’t geared specifically toward writers, social media strategist Andréa Jones can show you how to create an impact beyond your brand with authentic social media marketing strategies that will build a community of engaged followers. As the business of writing becomes increasingly dependent on an online presence, all writers can benefit from her Savvy Social Podcast that discusses topics across marketing and social media.
This website for writers came highly recommended. According to a reader of The Write Life, founder Javacia Harris Bowser “shares a lot of great and motivating information. She is caring and is your biggest supporter in you being the extraordinary writer you were born to be. … We learn! but we have fun while learning! Javacia knows her stuff! I am so happy to be a member of See Jane Write!”
Every woman has a story worth sharing, says Javacia. Though it began as a Birmingham-based membership organization for women who write and blog, See Jane Write has become a website and community for women everywhere who want to be the authors of their own lives. Here, she helps women find the creativity, confidence and community they need to use their story to make an impact and an income.
Through Sophie Lizard’s blog posts, job board and Facebook group, you’ll learn what it takes to increase your blogging income. She and her team at Be a Freelance Blogger show you how to build an expert reputation and regain your freedom by blogging for hire, all without giving up your dream of working from the beach.
Whatever your business goals, Copyblogger can supply the tools you need to create the kind of powerful content that will achieve them. This leading resource for blogging and digital marketing has been leveling up copywriting and content marketing skills since 2006, so it wouldn’t hurt to see what they can do for yours. Its free membership includes an online-marketing e-course, free ebooks, forums and more.
The blogging business is booming, and today, there are dozens upon dozens of strategies you can use to be successful. Creativity is encouraged! Take author Nina Amir, for example, who developed the challenge to “write a blog post a day and a book a year” by blogging your nonfiction book from beginning to end. Check out her website to learn more about her creative approaches to blogging.
What do you need help with? Founder Darren Rowse and the ProBlogger team have been delivering the latest news and tips to build a better blog since 2004. This site offers extensive resources on how to monetize your blog, in addition to a robust job board that’s always updated with new opportunities.
Maddy Osman is a sales and marketing pro who gleefully shares SEO writing advice and content marketing expertise to help writers drive traffic to their websites. One visit to her blog will show you she really knows her stuff, and The Write Life readers seem to agree, with one reader saying, “I always go to The Blogsmith when I need the most up to date information on industry changes that impacts writers.”
Trish Hopkinson created A Selfish Poet for poets and creative writers seeking publication. She shares no-fee calls for submissions, writing prompts, and poetry groups and events. Articles from Hopkinson and guest bloggers share the latest opportunities for writing contests, journals and other publications that pay. They’ll also help you become a better writer and a savvier submitter.
The path to freelancing is made simple on Elna Cain’s website, where she shares a range of action-based content to help you grow a successful business as a writer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, join thousands of writers in improving your skills with her valuable tips.
Freelancing is a business, after all, so it’s important to have the tools and information that will push your business (*ahem* money) forward. At Freelance to Freedom, you’ll have access to a newsletter, a free Freelancer’s Toolkit, and informative articles, all of which will help you wade through some of the hard stuff, like managing your taxes and securing consistent clients.
Among other things, writers who check out Kat Boogaard’s blog will learn how to do three crucial things: start a freelance business, find clients and writing gigs, then refine their freelance business. After six years of full-time freelancing, this website for writers is packed with resources that focus on crafting online content related to careers, productivity, entrepreneurship and self-development. Whether you want her perspective on taxes, setting rates or freelancing in general, Kat’s encouraging website is the place to be. Oh, and don’t forget her reminder: “You got this.”
Through her blog, ebooks and paid community, award-winning freelance writer Carol Tice offers solid support and resources to help you grow in your career. Writers at any level can learn how to overcome writing fears, earn money from blogging and move up from low-paying markets. Tice also founded the popular Freelance Writers Den, a 1,500-member strong community for freelancers. Check out our Freelance Writers Den review.
This website is “my only writing website choice,” shared a reader of The Write Life. “Her blogs are informative, great training, inspirational, and provide ideas to help with marketing, blogging, or writing. When she opens her Freelance Writer’s Den grab it. That group is THE BEST and provides all you need to get started, build up, learn, encourag, and support.”
Contently is a platform for creatives that lets you showcase your work through an optimized portfolio, find prospective clients, collaborate on projects with client teams and more — did you know it also provides tons of articles for freelancers by freelancers? You can access articles that share the personal experiences of writers and their businesses, or ones that can teach you how to create a newsletter, manage your money or expand your skill set.
Award-winning writer Lindy Alexander shares insider knowledge she’s picked up along the way of her thriving freelance writing career. Check out her website to learn the right way to follow up with editors, how to snag gigs with limited experience and why she doesn’t believe in networking for freelance writers.
Slipping into the technical and mundane aspects of managing yourself as a freelancer is easy. Freelance copy and content writer Katie Jenison shares ample tips that will bring the creativity out of your entrepreneurship with blogs that teach ways to add a thoughtful touch to your work, plus how to land high-paying clients.
Lizzie Davey quit her job and moved to Spain to start a freelance business. Now, she teaches writers everything she’s learned in the process. Between the e-courses, workshops and in-depth blogs, writers will leave feeling ready to navigate the wan-derful world of freelance writing. Don’t forget to check out her free 80+ page e-book!
Through her website and her Sarah Turner Agency channel on YouTube, copywriter Sarah Turner wants to help you shatter the glass ceiling of your career so you can elevate your life with writing — the kind that leads to sustainable income. If you dream of escaping your 9-to-5, Sarah’s blog and YouTube videos thoroughly break down the copywriting process so you can jump right in, even if you don’t have any experience. (You’ll want to check out her free course, too!)
Here’s what one reader of The Write Life shared about Sarah: “I love [Write Your Way to Freedom] not only for introducing me to a world of opportunity in freelance copywriting but also to the amazing community of writers she has created. Before Sarah, I had given up on my dream of making a living by writing, but she has reignited that for me and I’m SO grateful!”
Barb Drozdowich is a consultant and book blogger who believes that “authors need a social media platform to succeed in today’s ever-changing world of selling books,” so she’s helping authors, one at a time. On her blog, she tutors authors in the technology they need to build a platform through social media.
You’ve written the book — how do you get people to buy it? Marketing is tricky, but the blogs and other resources available on Build Book Buzz take the mystery out of social media strategies, self-promotion and navigating relevancy in the fickle media.
The Content Marketing Institute website is brimming with practical, how-to guidance, insight and advice from industry experts, plus an active community of writers and marketers who discuss the latest information and advances that can push the industry forward. This website is perfect for writers who want a better grasp of content marketing and how to employ strategies to build a brand, website, social media channel, author platform and more.
Writing coach and business book writer Ginny Carter has 22 years of marketing experience. Her blog features effective tips on how to bring your book to life, and though it’s mostly geared toward business books, the information is helpful for writers across all genres in need of platform amplification.
Alexander von Ness is a top-rated book cover designer for self-publishers, and he uses his website to teach writers about savvy marketing techniques that will have your books flying off the shelves. He shares expert tips on how to increase visibility with guest blogging, simple ways to market self-published books and a plethora of information to help you navigate book marketing successfully.
Plus, you might want to check out his Facebook group: “Alex’s Facebook group is filled with people from all walks of life who pose writing and publishing-related questions,” says a reader of The Write Life. “So many, many, many people are willing to help others in their dreams and goals to self-publish books.”
Nicole Bianchi’s tips help writers boost their productivity, improve their writing skills and build their online presence. An experienced writer, editor and web designer, she shares practical and personal advice about writing, copywriting and marketing strategies.
She’s a little bit of everything: a bestselling author, publisher, speaker, entrepreneur, podcaster, YouTuber. The Creative Penn, Joanna Penn’s well-known site, offers information on writing, book marketing, self-publishing, and how to make a living with your writing through articles, podcast episodes, videos, books and courses.
Copywriter Robyn Roste helps agencies, entrepreneurs and small businesses connect with their audience and customers through powerful messaging and branding. Whether you’re interested in gaining followers, learning about the importance of hashtags, or getting the most out of your social platforms, Robyn can break it down for you.
A freelance writer, digital marketer, content strategist and ghostwriter, Ashley Gainer has more than 10 years of experience working with influencers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. Her expertise? Helping writers create authentic copy that sounds great. To help you do that, Ashley shares a wide variety of productivity tips to help you master your craft through articles, writing courses and a podcast.
Holly Ostara understands how grueling the writing process can be, and she wants to keep your flame from burning out. At the same time she helps you find the joy in your writing again, Holly’s motivational blog will also equip you with the tools needed to be a better writer. Don’t forget to peek into her online writing community on Slack! It’s free to join and open to everyone.
Leigh Shulman wants writers to understand one thing: Chaos is part of the journey, so you might as well embrace it. Her free writing resources will be useful to writers at any given stage of the writing process, and her blog will gently nudge you to get out of your comfort zone and take the first step toward your ideal writing life.
A reader of The Write Life says, “I first discovered Leigh on social media and since I am no longer on social media she makes it easy for me to stay in touch with her and other writers with her amazing workshop and daily/weekly motivation ‘sprints.’ She is always quick to respond to my questions no matter how lame they may be. I admire her a great deal and feel blessed to find a mentor in her.”
Writer Bryan Hutchinson has had his work featured in newspapers, national magazines, books, on world-famous blogs and even toilet paper. With all this experience, he knows first-hand how easy it is to get stuck in the harsh cycle of self-doubt — to help you break through the uncertainty, he created this website for writers to share articles that encourage, inspire and motivate you to do what you love: write.
The writer behind The Novel Smithy, Lewis Jorstad, is a bestselling author who wants to help writing novices and soon-to-be-published authors improve their craft and write their best stories to share with the world. Beyond free ebooks, Lewis helps writers through a robust resource library that includes blogs about writing inspiration, story structure, character development and more.
“Find your voice, live your story,” is the foundational message behind this website for writers that’s been visited by nearly four million writers. Created and managed by speaker and author Edie Melson, The Write Conversation aims to inspire writers to reach their dreams with instructional and motivational blogs written by bestselling authors, columnists and a host of other experienced pros. Visit this website if you want to improve your craft with content that ranges from tips to present your best work to reminders about gratitude.
If you struggle with transferring your thoughts to the page, spend some time at The Write Practice to learn about writing better and faster. Joe Bunting and his team will develop your writing rhythm, help you grow into your voice and identity as a writer through prompts, exercises and more.
Weathering the storms of the writing process is absolutely necessary because, well… they’re inevitable. If you need a helping hand, the group of seasoned writers in charge of this blog are committed to using their unique perspectives and strengths to inspire you to get through the difficult stages.
Need help staying focused on your writing ventures? Melissa Donovan’s blog “Writing Forward” is loaded with tips on everything from staying inspired, to grammar, to 1,000+ writing prompts designed to keep your mind fresh and your pen fresher.
This weekly newsletter that’s been published since 1999 reaches 35,000 subscribers who signed up to receive paying opportunities in the form of contests, grants, freelance opportunities, gig jobs and publishers/agents. The markets it highlights pay $200 or $0.10 per word and up. Besides helping writers find work, this newsletter also includes a freelance piece from a guest author (which you can also pitch and be paid for!) plus an editorial from editor C. Hope Clark.
Want to build a six-figure freelance writing business in the next 12 months? If so, this is the newsletter for you. Copywriting expert Jacob McMillen built his business from scratch, and now he uses his website and newsletter to teach writers the same strategies that elevated his success. Every month, he sends subscribers a new in-depth blog post, plus he hosts a live training on writing, marketing or freelancing. His newsletter also comes with a free copywriting crash course and his blueprint to a six-figure career.
After years of experience as a writer and editor, Dana Sitar (who also contributes to The Write Life!) created a free newsletter that has one main goal: to help you become your editor’s favorite writer. Filled with a selection of pet peeves, warnings and advice, plus secrets and pro-tips for pitching, Notes will teach you how to write well, and — above all — keep editors happy. To receive exclusive content, check out Dana’s paid newsletter subscription Field Notes!
Every Wednesday, writer Lorenzo Di Brino emails subscribers of this newsletter every step and struggle he’s met on the road to success (and failure). But not just his own — prior to starting the newsletter, Lorenzo spent six months studying writers on the rise to better understand what they all have in common. The answer? An entrepreneurial-like path. Because of that, this newsletter that doubles as a Substack weekly column and a Medium Publication aims to help fellow writers succeed as creatives and writers-entrepreneurs who properly promote their work.
Managed by John Matthew Fox, the 50,000 authors who subscribe to this newsletter get to learn how to write better books through exclusive advice on writing. In addition to Matthew’s backpacking stories from six continents and more than 40 countries, this newsletter also includes free email mini-courses tailored to a range of writer’s needs: book marketing, how to write better sentences, the art of writing children’s books and more.
Writers who lead corporate communications, this one’s for you. Corporate communication trainer Ann Wylie has earned more than 60 communication awards in her career, plus she’s written more than a dozen learning tools to help you communicate effectively. In her corporate communications writing newsletter, you’ll receive tips, tricks and trends for writing better, easier and faster for the web and email.
A website of online creative writing courses for writers with no time or money, Writers’ HQ covers everything from plotting to editing, from short story writing to publishing. Its newsletter, on the other hand, shares “all kinds of wondrous things,” including, but not limited to, writing advice, emotional support, the latest blogs and the occasional haiku. As long as you’re comfortable with swearing, this eclectic newsletter is sure to teach you new skills while making you laugh.
Geared towards writers looking for a consultation hub, the Alliance of Independent Authors hosts an outreach service known as the Self Publishing Advice Centre. Presented by director Orna Ross and her team, this group shares the tools necessary to become a successful independent author. Through its bi-weekly podcast that highlights the most up-to-date practices, writers will learn new ideas and techniques in the ever-changing self-publishing industry.
To help you overcome hurdles and reach your writing goals, Ann Kroeker’s podcast episodes offer practical tips and motivation for writers at all stages. An added bonus is that her website is home to numerous blog posts and resources for emerging writers.
Bestselling authors Gillian McAllister and Holly Seddon examine the realities of life as published authors. The Honest Authors Podcast airs every two weeks, featuring discussions between the two co-hosts about the truths of being a professional writer. In addition, they feature expert insider interviews, as well as highlight honest answers to listeners’ questions.
Rachael Herron is a best-selling author whose podcast guides you through the entire process of writing a book. Whether you need some motivation to get started writing or specific genre tricks to tighten your story, How Do You Write will inspire you to keep pushing.
On her podcast, Indie Author Weekly, romance novelist and business-book author Sagan Marrow shares a behind-the-scenes look into her journey of writing and self-publishing books. It’s perfect for new or aspiring authors wanting to learn more about self-publishing or get tips for writing and editing your own work.
Memoir coach Marion Roach Smith hosts a podcast that gives listeners the blueprint on nonfiction narrative writing based on her personal memories, as well as her proven tips on how to overcome writers’ block. Her no-nonsense approach derives from her years of working at The New York Times — getting it right and making it short — is exactly what writers need to complete a nonfiction work of art that flows, reads well and is properly structured.
The Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, hosted by Savannah Gilbo, publishes weekly episodes filled with actionable and step-by-step strategies you can immediately put to use in your writing. Gilbo is a developmental editor and book coach, and she’s certified in more ways than one. Her extensive experience will go hand-in-hand with your journey as a blossoming (or seasoned!) novelist, as her tips and guidance make sense of the process along the way. If this is the right podcast for you, be sure to check out her free starter kit.
This year, a reader of The Write Life said, “I highly recommend Savannah Gilbo’s website and her podcast! She offers great writing advice, thought-provoking information, and printables to help you on your writing journey!”
The Bestseller Experiment is precisely that: Mark Stay and Mark Desvaux set out to see if they could publish a bestseller in just one year, and they did. Now the two have started a weekly podcast where they talk with chart-topping authors. With over 250 hours of interviews from authors including Michael Connelly, Joanne Harris and Bryan Cranston (plus agents, editors, lawyers, social media experts), priceless insight is just a listen away.
In this award-winning podcast, host Jeremy Bassetti talks with the world’s most inspiring travel writers about their work as well as the business of travel writing. For those who want to focus on travel books and long-form travel literature — or if you simply want to learn about the craft of travel writing — this podcast is definitely worth a listen.
What could you learn about writing in less than 20 minutes? On this podcast, it might be writing fight scenes, killing your darlings, side-character arcs, the hero’s journey or tips from experts who want to help you be a better writer.
Ruth Harris and Anne R. Allen are the publishing veterans behind this blog, which they started in 2009 to prevent writers from making the mistakes they couldn’t avoid. Dive into articles about navigating the complex industry, or read up on ways to tighten your manuscript. Whatever your publishing path, this blog has something for everyone.
From craft to publishing, to marketing, genre and life, the Career Authors website is led by a team of writers, editors and publishing industry professionals who want to inspire you, plus help you understand the business side of writing (a.k.a make money selling books!). The thorough blog posts found here will help you save time, keep you on track and get you closer to the dream writing career you imagine. To find the answers to the questions you’ve always wondered about, visit the guides to writing, promotion, business and process.
Derek Murphy believes the purpose of our lives is to “create something unique that entertains, instructs, challenges or helps others.” On Creativindie, he shows writers how to do that without becoming starving artists. Ever the one-stop-shop, this website contains downloadable resources, videos, books and thorough how-to guides to help you achieve the bottom line: getting published.
One reader of The Write Life said Jane Friedman’s website “offers consistently great information for writers (which leads to better decisions, better book deals, better workflow and bigger advances!).”
Between having 20 years of experience in the publishing industry and a prominent blog that shares an array of publishing and writing tips, we’re inclined to agree.
Dave Chesson consistently offers high-quality content that helps authors make money selling Kindle books. His actionable tips range from how to choose character names to using a Facebook author page wisely to reviews of writing tools. But what sets this site apart from the rest is Dave’s knowledge about Kindle keywords and how to optimize your book on Amazon to sell more copies.
That’s because he’s the brains behind Publisher Rocket, which helps Kindle authors choose the right keywords (think: search engine optimization for Amazon).
So you’ve finally finished writing your fiction novel, and you couldn’t be more proud! Now, how are you going to get others to read and appreciate your crowned jewel? Pagan Malcolm can help with that. Not only will her copywriting packages help promote your work to potential readers, but she also offers author career coaching to those looking to break into their profession.
Run by best-selling author Mark Dawson, this robust blog shares tips on writing, publishing, marketing and more. His blog features an array of topics including networking for indie authors, optimizing books for physical bookstores and more. Plus, check out the interviews with million-dollar selling indie authors on his podcast, or learn about craft, production and marketing through his blog courses.
Through workbooks, tutorials, a Facebook community group, a podcast and many other free resources, Kristen Kieffer helps writers turn the draft they’re hiding from into a completed masterpiece. Because she understands the struggle, her website is dedicated to guiding you through the pitfalls of writing so you can achieve your goals.
Sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Inc., this website for writers was founded in 1998 and focuses on highlighting literary scams, schemes and pitfalls of the publishing world. It also provides advice on how writers all over the world can protect themselves in any market or genre. To find writing-related articles, blog posts, industry news items and a discussion forum, check out the Writer Beware Facebook group.
Writer’s Relief has been helping writers reach their publishing goals since 1994 by providing a submission service where creatives can submit their writing to literary journals, book publishers, agents and more. Sign up to receive free publishing tips and leads in your email, peruse the enriching blog, or become a subscriber to access classifieds section lists, contests, conferences and residencies.
Founded in 2014, Reedsy gives authors and publishers access to talented professionals, powerful tools and free educational content. Writers can find insights into publishing and the writing craft, including free online courses that teach how to write better, publish smarter and sell more books. This site is a go-to for authors who self-publish.
Alessandra Torre is a New York Times bestselling author and teaches courses in writing and publishing. She also hosts an online community that provides a space for more than 14,000 novelists and aspiring writers to ask questions, share their works-in-progress and share helpful tips and articles. You can also visit her website to read blogs about publishing, marketing or to learn new writing tips.
“Alessandra Torre Ink has been a wealth of information that I couldn’t have published without,” wrote one reader of The Write Life. “She knows her stuff and is very helpful. I recommend her to anyone considering a career in writing or publishing.”
If you’re writing a book — or if you just have a question about writing one — this Facebook group formed by editors will give you access to knowledgeable answers to your writing questions from experts who know the writing process in and out. You can’t advertise your work in this group, but you and the 6,000 writers a part of this group can ask as many questions as you want.
Are you a science fiction and fantasy writer? See if Chronicles is a good fit for you. It’s a community and forum where members gather to discuss favorite books, authors and common themes within the genre.
Faith Writers is the #1 website for Christian Writers. Those interested in spreading the gospel universally via the world’s largest database of Christian articles can set up shop on this platform. Once you get through the articles from more than 70,000 Christian writers, Faith Writers also offers a Christian writer critique circle, weekly writing challenges, and annual Christian writing contests.
Fiction Writing helps writers with all things related to writing/publishing: outlining, writing, editing, query letters, formatting, artwork, blurbs, self-publishing and marketing. With nearly 125,000 members, there’s plenty of new writing to review and writers to provide feedback on yours. This robust group has regular threads for sharing social media accounts, poetry and more, too.
New and established writers, how would you like to join the group ProWritingAid says is one of the best groups for writers on Facebook? Writers interested in the craft and practice of writing, plus everything in between, can join this group to meet encouraging members who’ll support your work and celebrate your progress. In addition to learning from blossoming and professional writers, you can also promote your work and/or services. According to the group, interaction levels are high, so be ready to participate in group conversations and activities.
Some say artists are sensitive, and writers aren’t exempt. To curb the doubts and insecurities that always manage to creep up, join this encouraging community that aims to uplift writers at every stage of the game. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group came highly recommended, with one reader saying it’s “undoubtedly the best writer website. Everybody is so supportive, yet incisive in their feedback. It is a wonderful community.”
Need a beta reader (or a few) and some thoughtful critiques on your latest piece? Scribophile has your back. An online writing workshop and writer’s community, writers of all skill levels join this platform to help each other improve their work through actionable feedback, sharing writing experience, not to mention a writing blog of tips and advice that’ll further help you sharpen your work. Plus, you can even learn how to write a query letter and win prize money through free writing contests.
The Masters Review is a platform for emerging writers. It doubles as an online and print publication, and since 2011, it has been celebrating new writers by sharing useful resources, in addition to a submission process for undistributed works.
Abbie’s way of teaching writers how to make their stories matter is fun and engaging, as she often uses her own stories and projects as lessons to guide you in the right direction. By exploring mental health and sharing productivity, writing and blogging tips, Abbie hopes to help writers harness the power of psychology and storytelling to turn their ideas into masterpieces. Be sure to check out her YouTube channel for additional content about story structure, creating characters and more.
Lucy V. Hay has won the hearts of so many of you! It’s no wonder she made it to our list again this year. Bang2Write is all about script reading, submission, genre, pitching and characterization. You’ll find tons of advice on how to develop great stories and pitch your scripts, along with best practices for writing research.
According to this website for writers, all the best copywriting advice you need to help you write copy that attracts and converts lives right here. Besides a newsletter that shares free, daily copywriting tips, Belinda Weaver provides writing courses and a thorough blog that are sure to take your skills from good to amazing. Discover shortcuts so you can write faster and learn how to write engaging video scripts — then, see which four-letter word is crushing your potential.
One reader of The Write Life said this website is “packed to the brim with helpful writing advice that is both progressive whilst paying respect to tried and tested methods.”
A lover of writing, teaching and helping writers, C.S Lakin uses her professional experience to do all three on her website, Live Write Thrive. By day, she’s a novelist, copyeditor and writing coach. At night, she saves one writer at a time by sharing the secrets to proper scene structure, character development, editing and crafting a fantastic story. She also runs several reputable courses for writers, novelists and editors.
Higher education isn’t an option for everyone, so founder Gabriela Pereira and her team have made it possible for writers to access it without the hefty price tag. After all, DIY MFA says the typical MFA (Master of Fine Arts) just boils down to one simple formula: Writing + Reading + Community. You can definitely find that here. (Curious about the site’s corresponding course? Check out our DIY MFA 101 review.)
Elizabeth Spann Craig is a bestselling mystery author who uses articles, newsletter and guest blogs contributed by experts to teach writers how to turn an idea into a story — then, into a book. She also curates links on Twitter that are later shared on the free search engine, The Writer’s Knowledge Base, which can help you find the best writings on writing. Besides Twitterific writing links, this blog is also home to articles about genre, ad campaigns, creating believable characters and more.
K.M. Weiland is a writer of historical and speculative fiction, an award-winning author and your new mentor. To answer all of your writing and publishing questions, her website provides writers a range of free resources: blog posts, instructional ebooks, vlogs and a podcast.
The Horror Tree was created with the horror writer in mind. From its humble beginnings as an outlet for speculative fiction authors to connect with horror anthologies and publishers, this online resource has since broadened to cover pieces on each step of the writing process, non-fiction, poetry, non-anthology work, and audio to boot!
One of the best ways to learn to write well is to learn from the examples of great writers, says “longtime Janeite” Katherine Cowley. Her website is filled with blog posts about creative writing that use Jane Austen’s novels and other related stories to share what good writing looks and sounds like. Whether you’re interested in plot structure or character development to dialogue, each Jane Austen writing lesson focuses on one principle of writing at a time. Heads up: A new writing lesson is shared every Wednesday!
Jerry Jenkins is a 21-time New York Times bestselling author with 40 years of experience in publishing and editing, but also as a novelist and nonfiction author — because of this laundry list of achievements, he’s confident he can put you on the track to writing success. With the guidance of Jerry’s blogs, writing tools and courses, you’ll quickly adopt the basic skills needed to create prose that entertains, touches hearts and has the potential to impact lives all over the world.
Author Kathy Steinemann has an affinity for words, especially when they’re frightening, futuristic or funny. To help you keep your word bank interesting, she shares master lists of adjectives and offers tips for avoiding overused words and being more descriptive and original in your writing. Plus, she’ll tell you which writing habits upset editors.
According to a reader of The Write Life, “Kathy Steinemann always helps to find the elusive word that adds polish to a manuscript. … Kathy helps you to create a far more colorful compose of words to tell your story, she offers you an escapade to the boredom of a Lazarus’ story.”
How do you create compelling cliffhangers? How are villains born? Wait, how does story structure work? These are just some of the writing techniques and story elements you’ll learn about on the Kiingo blog, which is hosted by Kiingo Writing University, the world’s premier writing and storytelling school for the stories of today and tomorrow. To access storytelling courses, writing techniques and resources to learn the tools behind the craft of engaging storytelling, support them on Patreon.
Are you a Christian writer who doesn’t want to write a story that’s “cliched and preachy”? This website for writers wants to help you craft authentic and beautiful stories that challenge Christians and non-Christians to rethink how they view the world. Learn how to be an unstoppable writer with tips to build a writing habit that doesn’t quit, plus peruse the blog catalog that covers topics like work building, plot, style, theme and poetry, just to name a few.
Two words: Thesaurus library. The art of writing stories is no walk in the park, but it might feel that way with the free resources found on One Stop for Writers. This in-depth website covers everything from organizing research to writing authentic characters to crushing your writer’s block. Try out the free trial for the subscription to see if a full access plan offers the support you need.
All writers need a firm grasp of grammar to tell stories that have clarity and precision. And with the many — and often confusing — rules that make up the English language, websites like this one should be a go-to for every writer who wants to speak and write more correct, beautiful English. Start with one of the many grammar explanations available that break down verb tenses, gerunds and infinitives and more. Then, test your knowledge with grammar exercises before you pen your next creation.
Roy Stevenson is quite the travel aficionado. With over 1,000 published articles, this travel writing expert uses his site to gleefully share everything he knows about the industry: query letters and pitches that work, crafting content that sells, capturing compelling photography, and marketing yourself. To help you become a successful freelance travel writer, Stevenson offers workshops, coaching sessions, resource guides and instructive articles.
If you’re looking for a tool that will do more than just catch typos, this is it. ProWritingAid’s manuscript editing software will help you self-edit faster without compromising accuracy. The built-in style guide and contextual thesaurus are sure to come in handy, too.
For many of us, Mignon Fogarty (AKA Grammar Girl) is the go-to when we need to take the mystery out of the complicated English language. Her network, Quick and Dirty Tips, houses Grammar Girl’s wisdom for all things “grammar, punctuation, usage and fun developments in the English language.” She has a podcast, too!
London-based Yvonne Grace is a TV drama consultant who has 25 years of experience in script editing, storylining, script development and television drama production. When you visit her website, aspiring screenwriters will find a variety of content around TV writing: how to write a TV treatment, the secret to a compelling pilot script, the story structure to follow for TV drama series and so much more. According to the glowing testimonials on her site, you can’t go wrong with this expert’s advice.
Have you ever read a historical fiction novel that failed to nail the details of the era it’s set in? The History Quill is the website for writers that will help you avoid this faux pas. Its mission is to provide you with what you need to write a successful and accurate story, including specialist historical fiction editing services, group coaching and a flurry of tips and resources. Here, you’ll find fun tips like how to give your characters a historical sense of humor, plus research techniques to create an authentic story.
Chris La Porte is a writer, storyteller and self-proclaimed geek whose website teaches writers how to write more immersive stories. His blog is dedicated to analyzing the storytelling techniques of the movies, books, games and shows that spark our imagination, such as “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones,” “The Office,” and stories by J. R. R. Tolkien. Through these lessons, you’ll learn how to tell your stories better.
You might have a phenomenal pitch that got rejected because it just didn’t land in the right inbox. In that case, it really isn’t you; it’s them. The key is to pitch smarter. That’s where Susan Shain’s Where to Pitch comes in. This loaded writer resource will help you decide where to pitch your articles, based on a topic or publication. Her site also offers a free newsletter that offers monthly freelance writing tips and resources.
Kathy Widenhouse is a freelance Christian writer, but you might know her as the “Nonprofit Copywriter.” Her blog is loaded with simple, clear writing tips and shortcuts to simplify any writing process and help you make the most of your time. Heeding the advice of this accomplished copywriter means writing blogs, newsletters, webpages, social media copy and other projects will never be easier.
Founded in 2006, Writer Unboxed is dedicated to publishing empowering, positive and provocative ideas about the craft and business of fiction. Kathleen Bolton and editorial director Therese Walsh host more than 50 contributors that share meaningful insight about writing. Plus, you won’t want to miss out on the buzzing comment section, where the conversation includes the input of community members.
At Writers Write, where the motto is “Write to communicate”’ you’re welcomed into an all-encompassing writing resource for creative writers, business writers and bloggers. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of its vast archive of more than 1,200 informational and inspirational articles that provide solid advice, inspiration and writing assistance.
Farrah Daniel has been writing professionally for three years, dabbling in topics like finance, micromobility, travel and more. After leaving The Penny Hoarder in 2019, Farrah pursued a freelance career, where she now manages and creates content for small businesses and nonprofits. Check out more of her work at farrahdominique.com.
Lecturas que han marcado mi visión como escritora y voraz lectora .
En enero, durante diez días compartí diez portadas de libros de autores en mi FB. Autores, que han marcado mi lecturas y visión como escritora.
Hay muchos, pero he decidido mostrar algunos de los que rara vez hablo y son imprescindibles en mi biblioteca personal. Siempre es fascinante intercambiar esas lecturas o libros únicos y esenciales con otros lectores. Leer para mí sigue siendo un excelente refugio y una fuente infinita de sabiduría.
Cuatro estaciones a la carta. Gertrudis Ortiz Carrero. Editorial Oriente.
Conversación en La Catedral. Mario Vargas Llosa. Punto de Lectura.
Los Jefes y Los Cachorros. Mario Vargas Llosa. Universidad de ALCALÁ. Club Internacional del Libro.
Seda. Alessandro Baricco. Editorial Anagrama. Barcelona.
La insoportable levedad del ser. Milan Kundera. Tus editores.
Gulliver ‘s Travels. Jonathan Swift. Harper & Row, Publishers New York.
Sé que los disfrutarás tanto como yo. Como soy una lectora muy voraz y un bibliófila empedernida, se me quedaron muchos autores sin mencionar, por lo que continuaré compartiendo mis lecturas con ustedes con frecuencia en mi canal de Youtube, si aún no te has subscrito, por favor, apoyame en este nuevo mundo, y acompañame por ahí también.
Cuídense mucho de esta pandemia que no se quiere ir ,
Abrazos de luz para Todos/as,
Les comparto música cómo siempre, para alegrar el camino,
Maps of Canadian Independent Bookstores. Más de 250 librerías independientes a tener en cuenta.
Este Maps of Canadian Independent Bookstores, lo encontré “causalmente” hace un par de meses, en mis constantes búsqueda sobre librerías de la ciudad de Toronto. Justo, tenía la idea de hacer un mapa de las librerías independientes a las que apoyo, en dónde siempre compro mis libros. Cuando de repente, me encontré que ya otra persona lo había realizado. Maravilloso. En este mapa, hay más de 250 librerías. Les dejo el mapa, y algunas de las fotos de las que yo he visitado aquí en Toronto.
Find your local independent bookstore. Last updated August 2020.
Escritores indígenas canadienses para leer. Libros con los que trabajé durante el mes de noviembre en mis Talleres de Escritura Creativa.
Canadian indigenous writers to read. Books that I worked on during November month in my Creative Writing Workshops.
Hoy, quiero compartir algunos de los libros que he leído en mis talleres. Y algunas que me gustaron mucho. Comparto un video con algunas de las recomendaciones. Y les dejo un volante en inglés pero fácil de leer, con consejos para que nuestros niños amen la lectura y viajen a través de los libros. Algo que en ocasiones resulta complicado para algunos padres, debido al exceso de tecnología en casa. Motivarlos siendo el ejemplo es mi gran consejo para ti.
Today, I want to share some of the books that I have read in my workshops. And some that I really liked. I share a video with some of the recommendations. And I leave you a flyer in English but easy to read, with tips for our children to love reading and travel through books. Something that sometimes is difficult for parents due to excess technology at home. Motivating them by being the example is my great advice to you.
Canadian Indigenous authors and Illustrators. Selection by Yannis Lobaina #YannisLobaina #IndigenousWriters #ReadAloud Canadian indigenous writers to read. Books that I worked on during November in my Creative Writing Workshops.
IBBY Canadá realizó un hermoso catálogo digital de 100 libros ilustrados de autores e ilustradores de las Primeras Naciones, Mestizos e Inuit. El catálogo está disponible para descargar aquí.
IBBY Canada produced a beautiful digital catalog of 100 picture books by First Nations, Mestizo and Inuit authors and illustrators. The catalog is available for download here.
Nueve de mis podcast favoritos para escritores y artistas (Curados por Yannis Lobaina)
Hola, Espero que todos sigan cuidándose mucho y que podamos tener energías positivas para seguir navegando con nuestros sueños en medio de estos meses tan inciertos.
En el mes de septiembre, apenas pude escribir aquí, estuve muy ocupada con varios proyectos, y nuevas publicaciones. Les dejo el link, por si quieren leer mi nuevo ensayo personal, publicado en Tint Journal, es inglés cubano, así que podrán entenderlo. Gracias,
Hoy, quisiera compartir con ustedes, algunos de los podcast que he estado escuchando durante estos seis, largos meses de pandemia. Desde pequeña en cuba, La radio fue una de mis fuentes de conocimiento, refugio y placer, así que hoy , lejos de mi tierra, el podcast me hace sentir la misma emoción que cuando escuchaba la radio mientras desayunaba para ir a la escuela, o quería estudiar con música instrumental, o escuchar mis bandas de rock favorita.
He realizado esta selección pensando en esos días. Hoy, Solo les compartiré nueve, de mis casi 30 podcast favoritos para escritores y artistas, ya que el resto aun los estoy escuchando para compartirlos con ustedes. Estos nueves, me han ayudado a perfeccionar el idioma inglés, mi escritura , mi oído musical, me han hecho reír, llorar.
Nueve de mis podcast favoritos para escritores y artistas (Curados por Yannis Lobaina).
Desde pequeña en cuba, La radio fue una de mis fuentes de conocimiento, refugio y placer, así que hoy , lejos de mi tierra, el podcast me hace sentir la misma emoción que cuando escuchaba la radio , mientras desayunaba para ir a la escuela…
https://www.nighttimepodcast.com/ Este fue mi primer Podcast, recién llegada a Halifax, Nova Scotia… En mis investigaciones sobre artistas locales, etc, en una madrugada terminé escuchandolo. Su presentador, Jordan, investiga crímenes reales, historias raras y ovnis. Simplemente explora las cosas raras al margen de Canadá.
https://cantlit.ca/ . Un podcast mensual sobre todo lo relacionado con la literatura y el Canadá. Conducido por Dina Del Bucchia y Daniel Zomparelli. Último lunes del mes.
https://www.theliterarysalon.co.uk/ El Salón Literario. Damian Barr tienta a los mejores escritores del mundo a leer exclusivamente sus últimas obras más importantes y compartir sus propias historias personales. Entre los invitados estrella se encuentran Bret Easton Ellis, Jojo Moyes, John Waters, Helen Fielding, etc todos frente a una audiencia en vivo en los lugares más glamorosos.
http://readingandwritingpodcast.com/. Podcast de lectura y escrituraEntrevistas con autores sobre sus libros, sus hábitos de escritura, sus novelas favoritas y cómo empezaron a escribir.
https://modernmrsdarcy.com/ ¿Qué debo leer a continuación?¿Qué debo leer a continuación? es el programa para todo lector que haya terminado un libro y se haya enfrentado al problema de no saber qué leer a continuación. Cada semana, Anne Bogel, del blog Modern Mrs Darcy, entrevista a un lector sobre los libros que aman, los libros que odian y los libros que están leyendo ahora. Luego, hace recomendaciones sobre qué leer a continuación.
https://themoth.org/podcast La polilla. Gracias, a Adam un amigo, papá de la escuela de mi hija, conversando sobre mi pasión de caminar por el bosque, escuchando Podcast, él me recomendó este. La verdad, desde entonces, lo he disfrutado mucho. Se los recomiendo, ya que podrán escuchar historias reales muy fuertes, algunas triste, empoderadoras y con un sentido del humor tremendo.
https://www.blogtalkradio.com/artistshelpingartists ¡Artistas que ayudan a los artistas es el programa de arte número uno en la radio Blogtalk! Únase a cada semana mientras la presentadora Leslie Saeta discute un tema específico que aborda cómo vender más arte en línea, junto con artistas invitados, galeristas y otros que comparten sus conocimientos sobre el lado comercial del arte. Leslie Saeta es una artista que pinta con una espátula para crear pinturas vibrantes y coloridas. Habiendo pasado 30 años en marketing, su combinación única de talentos la ha llevado a una exitosa carrera en el arte. Su enfoque no tradicional para comercializar su arte en Internet ha creado su deseo de compartir su éxito en el marketing de arte con otros
https://momus.ca/momus-the-podcast/ Fundada por Sky Goodden en 2014, Momus es una publicación y podcast de arte en línea internacional que enfatiza “un regreso a la crítica de arte”. En sus primeros seis años, Momus ha afirmado el imperativo de leer nuestro texto cultural con mayor profundidad, con sus editores y escritores, que van desde emergentes hasta establecidos, dedicados a la labor vital y cuesta arriba de la crítica de arte en tiempos mayormente acríticos.
https://polarismusicprize.ca/podcast/ Este es uno de los podcast de música que siempre escucho, como todos ya saben, amo escuchar música y soy una gran apasionada de la música. Polaris Music Prize, son generalmente ;historias detrás de los álbumes canadienses nominados para el Polaris Music Prize, incluidas entrevistas con artistas y análisis de jurados etc.
Espero que los disfruten mucho , y que cuando puedan me cuenten cual les gusto, y qué les pareció.
Hoy, quiero compartir con ustedes un proyecto en el que he estado trabajando durante algunos meses. Decidí crear un grupo FB para conectarme con otras madres artistas, algunas de las cuales son amigas mías, desde hace mucho tiempo,otras que conocí en mi vida profesional en Canadá. Todas son bienvenidas, sin importar dónde se encuentren. Gracias al Internet, todas podemos estar conectadas y crear una comunidad global ilimitada.
Today, I want to share with you a project that I have been working on for some months. I decided to create an FB group to connect with other artist mothers, some of whom have been friends with me for a long time, others whom I met in my professional life in Canada. All are welcome, no matter where you are. Thanks to the Internet, we can all be connected and create an unlimited global community.
A MOTHERHOOD ARTIST NETWORK (Aka A.M.A.N.) a FREE FB group hosted by Yannis Lobaina. Será un lugar seguro para conectar, compartir y crecer juntas como madres, autoras y artistas. Mi intención es crear una COMUNIDAD DE APOYO LLENA DE INSPIRACIÓN Y ANIMACIÓN en nuestro día a día como madres y creadoras.
Este grupo es un sitio pacífico para ayudarnos a navegar mejor el negocio de autoras independientes y compartir con todas nuestros caminos de conocimiento en este desafiante proceso para ser una artista femenina y MADRE en Canadá y el mundo.
A MOTHERHOOD ARTIST NETWORK (Aka A.M.A.N.), a FREE FB group hosted by Yannis Lobaina. It will be a safe place to connect, share and grow together as mothers, authors and artists. My intention is to create a COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT FULL OF INSPIRATION AND ANIMATION in our day to day as mothers and creators. This group is a peaceful site to help us better navigate the freelance business and share our knowledge paths in this challenging process to become a female artist and MOTHER in Canada and the world.
A MOTHERHOOD ARTIST NETWORK (Aka A.M.A.N.) a FREE FB group hosted by Yannis Lobaina.
El 1 de Abril, 2019, encontré la convocatoria de Microrrelatos, en el FB de la editorial Mapalé. Enseguida le escribí a Silvia Alfaro su directora, quién amablemente me respondió que la convocatoria era para TODOS, los que vivíamos en Canada de habla hispana.
Me pareció una maravillosa oportunidad, publicar en español aquí. Así que, sin pensarlo más, me decidí a enviar el mini relato Deeply rooted, que es parte de una colección bilingüe de nueves cuentos, en los que estoy trabajando y traduciendo.
Estoy muy feliz, Deeply rooted, acaba de salir junto a otros Sesenta autores latinos-canadienses, en la antología Relatos Entrecruzados (2020) de la Editorial Mapalé. El escritor chileno-canadiense Ramón Sepúlveda fue el invitado especial para ser el antologador y editor junto a Clara Alfaro.
En esta antología, participaron escritores de Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, México, Perú, República Dominicana, Uruguay y Venezuela y Cuba, para mi mayor alegría, pude conocer a otros cinco cubanos que están en ella: Diana Rosa Pérez Castellanos, Jocy Medina, Jorge Carrigan, MIrta Casañas, Y Zeyda R. Santana.
Gracias a la gran labor de la editorial Mapalé, a pesar de COVID19, hemos podido conocernos, escucharnos, y compartir con casi todos los autores, a traves de la plataforma de ZOOM.
Aquí, pueden leer parte de mi intervención que podrán escucharla luego, en el canal de YOUTUBE de la editorial, y en mis redes sociales.
1. Cómo está presente Cuba en su obra, ya sea en el cuento que está en la antología o en otros escritos suyos.
Cuba, específicamente, la Habana y Baracoa (la ciudad en la que nací) son locaciones recurrentes en mis cuentos. En Deeply Rooted, El personaje Valentina Brown, tiene un gran conflicto, lucha contra la dicotomía de sus dos orillas,Cuba o Canadá…Y la aceptación del idioma inglés, como la lengua para expresarse como escritora. etc.
2. Cómo está presente el país donde reside actualmente en su trabajo literario.
Inevitablemente, Toronto, es ahora, uno de mis personajes y también es mi espacio vital de inspiración. Recientemente, escribí una serie de mini ensayos personales, en donde las calles de Toronto son las protagonistas. Es un mapa de mi vida aquí. También la provincia de Nova Scotia, en dónde viví un año, y escribí varios cuentos infantiles, dedicados a mi hija Amélie.
3. Escritores que han influenciado su obra y si alguno es latino-canadienses.
Son muchos mis referentes, pero solo les mencionaré TRES, El primero, que ha influenciado en mi modo de ver la Literatura y el mundo, Julio Cortázar, cuando lo leí por primera vez, con doce años quedé fascinada con las múltiples lecturas que me sugería. Con él aprendí a escuchar Jazz, pintura, etc. La otra, Juana Borrero, cubana, poco conocida mundialmente, una gran poetisa, pintora y super talentosa mujer. Su libro, me acompaña desde hace 20 años!.
La tercera, es Latino-canadienses, Beatriz Hausner, la conocí recientemente, gracias a la antología de Historias de Toronto , Y mi querida Comunidad Imagina, quienes están creando excelentes oportunidades para nosotros, autores hispanohablantes, en el panorama literario canadiense. Ellos son, Juan Gavasa, José Antonio Villalobos, y Marta Bátiz.
4. Qué libros están leyendo en este momento.
Leo muchisimo, cada vez que tengo tiempo, me paro y leo aunque sea dos páginas. Ahora mismo, estoy Releyendo:
La breve y maravillosa vida de Oscar Wao. Junot Díaz.
Diálogos sobre la vida y la muertede Liliana Heker . Aquí, abro un gran parentesis, y de esto no hablé en el encuentro, porque no había mucho tiempo, pero merece un post, lo haré algún día ( A Liliana Heker, la conocí hace 12 años, en la Habana, Gracias al I encuentro de Jovenes escritores de Latinoamerica, realizado en Cuba, por el El Centro de Formación Literaria Onelio Jorge Cardoso. de donde soy egresada.
En la Foto junto a Liliana Heker, dos Jóvenes escritores, super Talentosos y que quiero mucho, Marina Porcelli( Argentina) y Miguel Del Campo(Chile) y Yo. Habana, Cuba ( 2008. )
El instante raro ( Antología poética) de Fina García Marruz.
Fabulaciones y ensayos de Augusto Monterroso.
Sí desean leer estos microrrelatos, mini-relatos o micro-cuentos, les dejo el link. Página donde están todos los datos de la antología y los autores: https://www.editorialmapale.com/relatos.html Para comprar el libro directamente con la editorial para el público en general (envíos a Canadá y USA solamente): http://www.artemapale.com – Para comprar en Amazon desde cualquier lugar del mundo, tanto en papel como el ebook: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1988691249.
Y cómo siempre, les dejo música de mi Tierra, para alegrar el alma y estos días aciagos.
Una vez, en la Habana, le escuché decir a Belén Gopegui, una frase que desde entonces ha quedado rondando dentro de mí, realmente «leemos para vivir».Desde que vivo en Canadá, la literatura ha sido un gran arma para intentar entender una sociedad totalmente diferente a la mía.
Es tan maravilloso poder leer en el idioma de su autor, gran placer que descubrí por primera vez, cuando estudié francés en la Alianza Francesa de la Habana, pude deleitarme con los cuentos originales de Boris Vian, recuerdo que leí, L’ecume des jours, uno de los libros (novela) más representativos del existencialismo francés. Lo mismo, que cuando estudie Alemán, y puede entender Fausto, de Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Ahora, aquí en Canadá, uno de mis mayores retos diarios, es perfeccionar el Inglés. Para ello, la literatura vuelve a ser mi mejor maestra. Nada, mejor que combinar esta técnica, no es algo que he inventado yo, esta comprobado hace muchos años. Las ventajas son muchísimas, desde crecer el vocabulario, hasta poder entender la sociedad o el humor de los canadienses.
Lo primero que hice fue investigar sobre los autores que leería, ya de algunos tenía referencias, otros los había leído traducidos al español, pero nunca es igual, cómo les dije, aunque la traducción sea buena. Me hice mi lista, y con ella salí a comprar o simplemente pedir prestados en la Bibliotecas. Pero, como soy una bibiomaníaca, preferí comprarlos. Mi consejo es visitar las librerías de segunda mano, los libros los encuentras casi nuevos , en muy buen estado, y lo mejor, muy BARATOS. Porque esto, es algo que sufro aquí, los libros son caros, al menos para la mentalidad de lectora cubana, que con 20 dólares, llenas un estante de buena literatura y libros nuevos!!!!!… Pero, vale la pena tenerlos en casa!!!!.
Una parte de mi lista de escritores canadienses pendientes de lecturas!!!!
Hoy, les recomendaré, tres autoras que he terminado de leer y que me han gustado muchísimo. Por cuestiones obvias, no caeré en la trampa de muchos, tengo prioridades en leer la literatura hecha por mujeres…Ellas son:
Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood, Tuve la gran dicha, de conocerla en el año 2010 en la XIX Feria Internacional del Libro de La Habana,a la que asistió como una de sus principales invitadas. Fue un año increíble, también pude conversar con La Premio Nobel de Literatura sudafricana Nadine Gordimer.
Atwood presentó en la Habana ”El quetzal resplandeciente y otros relatos”, libro que guardo con especial cariño dedicado por ella,una sencilla edición cubana, gracias a la importante editorial Arte y Literatura, 67 cuentos que abordan desde la supervivencia del planeta hasta el romance, con toques de humor e ironía. En una librería de uso en Shelburne, Nova Scotia, me encontré una impresionante novela ‘La mujer comestible’ (‘The edible woman’, 1969). Margaret Atwood (Ottawa, 18 de noviembre de 1939) es una de las grandes escritoras del siglo XX y XXI y una de las grandes representante de la literatura feminista. A través de sus ficciones y personajes retrata la pérdida de identidad de la mujer en la sociedad patriarcal, las consecuencias de los mitos sociales sobre la feminidad y la violencia estructural que padecen las mujeres. Atwood es ecologista y defensora de los derechos humanos, además de un referente del feminismo en los años 60 y 70. Ha recibido el Premio Príncipe de Asturias de las Letras (2008).
2. La segunda, gracias a Carol Robinson, una maravillosa amiga canadiense, me regaló una antología de Alice Munro. Munro es conocida como La “maestra del relato corto”, así la ha definido la Academia Sueca, nace en Wingham (Ontario, Canadá) en 1931. Dos de sus obras más importantes, ‘Demasiada felicidad’ y ‘La vida de las mujeres’, novela de 1971, han sido publicadas en español por la editorial Lumen. Su trabajo más reciente es ‘Mi vida querida’. (Fuente: Editorial Lumen). Munro es considerada como una de las autoras famosas más importantes y relevantes en lengua inglesa de la actualidad. Le fue concedido el Premio Nobel de Literatura en 2013. El azar y las inconsistencias de la vida son temáticas muy usuales en sus relatos.
3.La tercera que les recomiendo, la encontré por ese azar recurrente que siempre me acompaña, leyendo algo en la web, descubrí a Sue MacLeod.
ella no figura en las grandes listas de escritores canadienses, al menos las que yo he visto, ni siguiera tiene publicado muchos libros, pero, Namesake, su primera novela, publicada por Pajama Press, 2013. Es un libro increíblemente bello, muy sencillo y de fácil lectura. Con un interesante tema histórico, amo las novelas históricas, así que desde la primera línea me atrapó, me dejé sumergí en la historia de Lady Jane Grey. Mi esposo, me lo regaló por el día del libro. Regalo que le agradezco, porque descubrir autores poco conocidos, es desde siempre mi gran obsesión. Cuando trabajé como especialista en promoción cultural, en la editorial Ediciones Union,en Cuba, ese fue mi mayor reto diario. Redescubrir y valorar a los no famosos.
La literatura canadiense es inmensa, hay muchos autores tanto de habla inglesa como francesa. Algunos muy famosos otros no tanto, pero todos son importantes, así que les invito a descubrirlos conmigo…¿Conoces estos autores? ¿ cuales me recomendarías?
Tres grandes escritoras canadienses que amé leer.
Tres grandes escritoras canadienses que amé leer!!!!
Les dejo música, como siempre para acompañar el viaje de la lectura. Esta vez, de una banda canadiense, que me gusta mucho, llamadaSaid The Whale.
local independent bookstore. By Yannis Lobaina 
Munro es conocida como La “maestra del relato corto”, así la ha definido la Academia Sueca, nace en Wingham (Ontario, Canadá) en 1931. Dos de sus obras más importantes, ‘Demasiada felicidad’ y ‘La vida de las mujeres’, novela de 1971, han sido publicadas en español por la editorial Lumen. Su trabajo más reciente es ‘Mi vida querida’. (Fuente: Editorial Lumen). Munro es considerada como una de las autoras famosas más importantes y relevantes en lengua inglesa de la actualidad. Le fue concedido el Premio Nobel de Literatura en 2013. El azar y las inconsistencias de la vida son temáticas muy usuales en sus relatos.
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