That morning, I went to the publisher’s office in Union Square as planned, but I was instructed by the receptionist to please leave. “There’s been an incident,” she said. It wasn’t until I went back outside that I noticed the smoke and chaos and long lines at the payphone.
(Image taken from this website: https://www.justice.gov/history/never-forget-911-25-year-later)
Read MoreGiven the solitary nature of the writing profession, collaboration can be an appealing option for writers who trust one another and have a common goal. They can brainstorm ideas together, explore a new genre, and promote their books as one unit. Yet “collaborations are complex undertakings,” writes literary agent Richard Curtis, “the literary equivalent of three-dimensional chess.” A collaboration agreement is a must, and “in 2026, an AI-use clause is no longer optional,” says Sarah Begley, member care manager and publishing assistant at the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi).
Read MoreInternationally acclaimed mystery writer Louise Penny was “turned down more often than I care to remember” before placing in Debut Dagger, a contest held by the UK’s Crime Writers’ Association. “I cannot overstate the importance that award has had on my career,” she writes on her website.
Given this and other success stories, it’s no wonder that writing contests are an attractive option for writers who have yet to break into the industry. But are they worth the investment, both financial and emotional? Yes—if the contest is legitimate and the prize offers value to the writer.
Read MoreSearching for a literary agent was “grueling and disappointing” for Brian Finkelstein, who I worked with on a full manuscript critique in early 2024. The same week he sent out the bulk of his query letters that summer, real life managed to imitate his art, and traditional publishing no longer seemed like an option. Self-publishing was, however. I’m delighted to share my interview with Brian on his debut novel The Triumph of Jules Coletti, which he released last month.
Read MoreReady to learn about the latest developments in the book industry, pitch to literary agents, and/or connect with other writers in 2026? Here is a list of conferences and other writing events to consider attending early next year, both in-person and online. (Note: Most are geared toward fiction writers.)
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