Where to find a Writing Community? by Georgia Parker

The best way to combat my students’, and my own revision woes, is to form a writing community or group. Writing communities can provide support and constructive criticism for burgeoning writers. Although writing is a solitary task, and often a very personal one, eventually you will need someone else with a discerning eye and kind heart to tell you what is working and what just isn’t.

Finding a trusted writing partner or group is essential in order to grow as a writer. Many writers meet face-to-face on a weekly or monthly basis at the local library or Starbucks, but just as many utilize online writing groups such as Scribophile, The Loft, or Critique Circle. A great resource to find an online, or live group, is the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) or through the Association of Writers and Publishers (AWP). Both of these organizations have local, state, and national conferences that connect writers and help them find their people.

There are groups on Twitter such as Writing.com and NaNoWriMo, and on Facebook there are groups for any specific writing genre you could want. These groups can provide inspiration, support, and even a critique partner or two. Don’t get discouraged! The first group I reached out to was full. Be persistent! A constructive critique of your writing is invaluable. Once you find a partner or small group, remember to provide the kind of feedback you would like to receive - some praise and some suggestions. As writers we want to nurture one another as we hone our craft just as we do with our students.


Georgia Parker has taught English in grades 6-9 at various times in her career. She has spent the last 23 years teaching English at Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park, FL. For the last 20 years she has taught English 8, and in the last six years has added YA Lit. Parker is a member of NCTE and ALAN, serves as a state representative for ALAN, and has presented at numerous conferences. She is  also the Co-Director of the Trinity Prep Author Fest and is the current Diane & Michael Mayer Endowed Chair of English at Trinity Preparatory School. Find her on Twitter at @gksparker.