5 Writerly Things, 11.18.25
Resources to support your writing life
Sat. Nov 22, 2025, 2-4 pm WRITERS FOR DEMOCRATIC ACTION WI--POP UP
Join other Red Oak writers and WDA members giving readings on the theme of moral courage: defining it, using it, challenging autocracy. Please come and read a poem or piece, yours or another author’s, on your thoughts about our growing authoritarianism; readings are limited to five minutes. MLK Public Library, 2901 N Martin Luther King, Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53212
What a great opportunity to connect with other writers. Come whether or not you plan to read. Please sign up if you do.
In this brilliant essay, “You’re Writing a Book, So Stop Writing a Movie,” Rebecca Makkai elucidates many of the “hiccups” it is hard to put my finger on in early draft writing—my own and that of the writers in our Roundtable critique groups. I have a feeling I’m going to be recommending this to a lot of folks.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book of essays, Shelter and Storm, and had the honor to be in conversation with Tamara Dean at Books & Co when it first came out. (We had a small but mighty group at the bookstore because there were tornado watches in the area that evening. Life imitates art, I guess!)
Get your own copy at a discount: University of Minnesota Press is offering a 30% seasonal discount. To take advantage of that, visit the press’s website and use discount code MN94100 (good through Jan. 15, 2026) at checkout.
Red Oak writer, Jan Wilberg, has taken the challenge to walk 100 miles for Street Angel Milwaukee Outreach. (They feed unhoused people, tend to some of their physical needs, and provide other important acts of kindness.) Check out Jan’s video and then please consider supporting her fundraising project. Your money will go a long way toward doing a lot of good.
Wisconsin Writers Association Open Mic & Raffle Fundraiser Celebration, Dec 1, 7pm on Zoom
Featuring readings from some of this year’s Jade Ring placers and WWA members. Between readings, we’ll draw names for our Season of Giving prizes--including:
free 2026 conference registration,
WWA Press gift basket,
and a private consultation with one of our instructors.
Want to give a 3-5 min reading? Sign up HERE!
If you find these little missives worthwhile, please recommend them to your writerly friends. Thanks so much!