Writing Alone, Writing Together: A Guide for Writers and Writing Groups

by Judy Reeves

The lonely life of a writer need not be. According to this book, there are ways to break that isolation and find encouragement and support within groups of like-minded people. Sections include “Writing Practice Groups,” “Creating Writing Prompts,” “Group Leadership,” and even “What to Do with the Bores, Whiners, Control Junkies, and Thugs.” Whether the group is oriented toward writing the great American novel or a book of family memories, this useful guide offers an array of effective techniques to help writers achieve their goals.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction, Journaling, Design

176 pages, Paperback

First published September 18, 2002

Reviews

[Justyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those interested in writing groups whether joining, starting one, or already a member, this is a great resource. Reeves writes a book that is informative and also inspirational. The first chapter deals with Writing Alone and claiming oneself as a writer. The second chapter discusses Writing Together with topics for consideration in particpating in a group. Chapter three goes over writing groups in general, the structure and organization. From there, depending on the group of your interest the book covers read and critique groups, writing practice groups, and writers workshop groups which the author has experience in all. I found it useful to know all similarities and differences with each type and the benefits of each even though my interest is primarily in read and critique. The final chapter discusses writing in the community outside of groups such as conferences and retreats. Writing doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. To fulfill our social needs, we writers need to join together at some point in some shape or form as a community. And from there it's up to personal choice and preference on how to add writing together to writing alone.

[Kevin]

What I actually read was
Alone Together theNwDm for a Challenge on Storygraph.
A monthly zine focused on helping grow the solo roleplaying genre by providing reviews, resources, and advice.

Included in the January 2024 issue is:

Review of Free League's adventure 'Hope's Last Day' for the Alien RPG.
Resource guide for oracles and other solo tools.
An introduction to solo roleplaying.
A short writing exercise set on the edge of known space.
Random d6 tables.

[Vikram Nijhawan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read select chapters. It provides pretty helpful (albeit common sense) advice for organizing writing groups, as well as motivating writers.

[Jaymi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've just started a new writing group with a friend and we've had our first meeting the last week of July. We're a small group, 6-8 people who have varied interests and goals. So I got this book to help me get a bit of focus on what types of groups are out there and how we should approach our own group. I have the feeling that ours is going to be a mix of the types Reeves spoke of, with a sprinkle and dash of our craziness and silliness. :) All in all a good book that gave me much to think on.

[Alison Stegert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inspiring! I am yearning to join a writing group now!

[Eglizard · Rating 4 out of 5]

A guide for organizing writers and writing groups with assorted or similar interests. Trouble-shooting, bibliography, hundreds of writing prompts. Examples of what you can do alone or at a conference of 800 people. Inspiration to keep reading and writing.

[ginger · Rating 5 out of 5]

read, & applied much of this book to my formation & administration of a local writers group during the virus . the book was full of helpful points, I was eager & offered up my skills, creative juices & time. but in the end I did not attract any committed writers. but the book was true!

[Jaimee Walls · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous book about creating a writing community! Loved it.

[Katy Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this would be more applicable to writing groups in the classroom, which is why I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars. However, if you're looking to develop or join a writing group, this book is for you. There are SO many writing prompts in here, practical tips, inspiring quotes, and ideas for groups and group activities. If you want to be inspired to write with others, this is for you.

[Nic · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fabulous guide for groups who want to start a writer's workshop. It goes over all the many issues than can derail the best intentions in an easy to digest format. I recommend it often.

[Hella]

een inspirerend boek om zelf een schrijfgroep op te ztten. Van de schrijfster van A Writer's Book of Days, hét schrijfverenboek!