Friday Finds for Writers

Treasure Chest
Writing-related resources, news, and reflections to enjoy over the weekend.

  • The New Yorker reports on Ansel Elkins’s hotel stay as winner of a residency awarded by Paris Review and the Standard East Village.
  • Good news for those who know Nantucket (or who think they do): There’s a Goodreads giveaway under way for John Vanderslice’s wonderful story collection, Island Fog. (I’ve had the opportunity to read the book in e-galley form, and it’s one I highly recommend.)
  • Author Mark Rubinstein’s post about reader-generated book reviews brought to mind Rebecca Klempner’s recent essay for Tablet. You’ll find ethical issues embedded in both pieces.
  • Saul Bellow’s Herzog was published 50 years ago. Andrew Furman recently revisited the novel (along with his students). Much to his surprise, he discovered a new perspective on Bellow and his book.
  • Adam Kirsch and Francine Prose reveal their favorite out-of-print books. What’s yours?
  • Happy weekend, everyone.

    Friday Finds for Writers

    Treasure ChestWriting-related resources, news, and reflections to enjoy over the weekend.

  • Over on 2paragraphs: succinct and sensible social-media advice for writers from Harvey Freedenberg
  • Any writing conferences on your agenda for 2014? You may want to bookmark these “Ten Tips for Tweeting at Conferences.”
  • Some thoughts (and tips) on poetry book contests from Diane Lockward, based on her recent experience as a contest judge.
  • “Byliner can keep the money. I’ll keep my self-respect.” Author (and former Byliner editor) Will Blythe recently explained why he wouldn’t sign the company’s termination agreement, which included a non-disparagement clause.
  • On the Graywolf Press blog: the art of rejection. (h/t Kevin Haworth)
  • Happy weekend, everyone.