Writers Groups

Michigan Writers currently hosts two novel-writing groups in the Traverse City area. The purpose of these groups is to offer writers a chance to share manuscripts in progress for peer review and editing in a friendly, non-threatening atmosphere.  Because of the nature of novels and long stories,  members commit to read a large number of pages each month between meetings.  Thus, the groups remain small.  The two existing groups are composed of four members each. 

If you would like information about forming another long works group, send an e-mail to Marcy Branski indicating "Novel Group" in the subject box.   Please note that we limit our writers groups to Northwest Lower Michigan.

The Michigan Writers Poetry Group meets the third Tuesday of each month from 3 to 5 p.m. at the home of Ann Bardens-McClellan in Interlochen. Poets bring copies for everyone, and they read aloud while the rest follow along. Then someone else reads their poem so the poet can "hear" the poem in a different voice. Readers write praise and suggestions on their copies, then discuss these points.

"We try to be gentle and helpful," Ann says.

For more updated schedule information, questions, and directions to her house, contact Ann by email.

The short fiction/nonfiction group meets the first Wednesday of each month from 3 to 5 p.m, on the second floor of the Traverse Area District Library at 610 Woodmere Ave. in Traverse City. The group offers feedback, encouragement, and ideas for publication.

Members have brought in life stories, poetry, personal essays, historical fiction, editorials and even some science fiction to share. This group is looking for new members, so feel free to drop in. Contact Carolyn Thayer for more information.