Write Right Now!

Do you have lots of family history research but don’t know what to do with it? Several genealogy writing opportunities have come across my desk recently that might prove helpful to you.

Family Tree Magazine has started a 30 Day Family History Writing Challenge. Every day during the month of November the magazine’s editors will have a writing prompt for you to consider. Take a few minutes to see what their prompt of the day is and try to write a paragraph or two on it. You can even post what you write on social media. Rise to the challenge and see what you have at the end of the month!

If you need help setting aside time to write, take advantage of the Cook Library’s November programs called NaNoWriMo. November is National Novel Writing Month and the library is sponsoring a “write-in” every Wednesday (except November 23rd) from 6 – 8 p.m. Bring your laptop or pen and paper, some family research or photos to get you started, and write a few lines. Once you get started, you may just not want to stop. And no, you don’t have to write a novel. Writing of any form or length is encouraged.

What will you do with your finished product? Here are two ideas:
1. Attend the next Genealogy Writers Group on Tuesday, January 3  at 2 p.m. in the Cook Park Meeting Room. There’s always lots to talk about and share.
2. The International Society of Family History Writers and Editors has announced its 2017 Excellence in Writing competition. The deadline is June 15, 2017, so you’ve got plenty of time to work on a piece for the judges. Categories include Published Columns, Published Articles, Genealogy Newsletters, Unpublished Material by Unpublished Authors, Unpublished Material by published authors, and Poetry and Music Lyrics.

Happy Writing!