Let’s All NaNo!
Let’s All NaNo!
by Laura Brennan
What the deuce is NaNoWriMo?
National Novel Writing Month is an annual challenge to write the first draft (50K words) of a book in one month. In November every year, writers get together to support each other on this tremendous quest.
This year, Sisters in Crime/Los Angeles is getting into the act. And you don’t even have to be participating in NaNoWriMo to join in the fun.
Different members will be hosting “write-ins,” where fellow SinC members and other writers can get together and write together for an hour or two. Diners, wine bars, coffee shops — all are the perfect venue for sustenance, fellowship, and Words, Words, Words!
Here’s what it will look like:
* At the time and place of the write-in, people will show up. No RSVP needed.
* Everyone introduces themselves with their name and what genre they write in.
* Start writing!
One great way to keep focus is to set a phone timer for 20 minutes. Turns out that 20 minutes is a good chunk of time for the human brain to focus intently, and then you get a little break to stretch, chat, and maybe refill your coffee (or wine). Rinse, repeat.
Bring pens, paper, laptops, whatever you need to get your muse on. Invite friends and fellow writers. When we all write together, we all make it to The End!
We’ll keep an updated list of dates and venues here on the website and also on our Facebook Page. If you want to host a write in, it could not be easier: just pick a public location near you that has snacks and a bathroom, pick a date and time that works for you, and e-mail Laura at SinCLAVeep@gmail.com to get out the word.
So join your fellow writers! Invite your friends! There is no wrong way to write!
LIST OF WRITE-INS (AS OF OCTOBER 31ST, 2019)
November 2nd:
Where: Copper Still Grill (SinC-LA has the restaurant’s loft space reserved)
610 S. Myrtle Avenue
Monrovia, CA 91016
Free public parking is available on Myrtle Avenue and on the side streets and its adjoining lots.
When: Saturday, November 2 (DAY 2 of NaNoWriMo), 11am to 2pm
Who’s leading: Kathryn Z Hutson
November 7th:
Where: Black Bear Diner
18355 Ventura Blvd
Tarzana, CA 91356 (Reseda and Ventura Blvd)
When: Thursday, November 7, 6pm – 8pm
Who’s leading: Laura Brennan
November 16th:
Where: The Toasted Bun (Van Nuys location)
14445 Sherman Way
Van Nuys, CA 91405
When: Saturday, November 16, 2pm – 4pm
Who’s leading: Shannon Muir Broden
November 17th:
Where: Harvest Moon Kitchen and Marketplace
12456 Magnolia Blvd.
Valley Village, CA 91607
When: Sunday, November 17, 2pm – 4pm
Who’s leading: Shea Butler
