The Brainerd Writers Alliance

We are a group of published and unpublished writers at every skill level, who write in a variety of genres. We’ve been meeting and evolving for over two decades and welcome visitors to our monthly meetings.

We meet on the 3rd Saturday morning of the month, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Brainerd Public Library  (415 So. 5th St.). Visitors are welcome. Monthly meetings include a talk on a relevant writing topic and brag time. Let us know ahead of time if you have work to read for critique or just to share.

Annual dues are $15. Members are encouraged to read their work and receive critiques. Members receive discounts on BWA events.

Meeting AGENDA – times are flexible as needed.

• 10:00 Meet and greet / coffee and snacks
• 10:15 Member news & kudos (brag board) – includes a review of events members have attended
• 10:45 Discuss writing challenges – everyone!
• 11:15 Writing exercise or lesson (sign up to teach)
• 12:00 Workshopping – Members only. (sign up to have work critiqued)

Note: Our September meeting will be a member’s only planning session for the coming year. Please bring food to share and your best ideas and comments.

Good critique is not criticism!

Be constructive, meaning, have the best intentions for helping the writer. This may mean telling hard truths. If hard truths must be told, do so respectfully. If praise is deserved, offer it. Highlight the strong points of a piece—even if they are far outweighed by the negative points. Be genuine in your motivations, and genuine action will follow. https://www.scribophile.com/academy/how-to-write-a-great-critique

More about effective critiques and “workshopping” writer’s work.

Writing prompts.

http://www.practicalcreativewriting.com/creative-writing-exercises/ten-minute-writing-exercises/