Erika Dreifus

Fiction writers often encounter the dictum to “write what you know.” But what does this really mean? How do you do it without re-hashing your own life story? If you’re in the Boston area, you’re invited to Grub Street, Inc., for a seminar on April 6. We’ll talk together about the limits and liabilities of the principle as well as some more rewarding (if sometimes risky) ways to employ it. The workshop will include short exercises plus excerpts from John Gardner, Mario Vargas Llosa, and others. Bring your thoughts and questions about work-in-progress and possible new projects. To sign up, visit the Grub Street site.

Speaking of book reviews, here’s my latest, a review of Tamar Yellin’s Kafka in Brontëland and Other Stories, posted over on JBooks.com.

I’m always working to keep the e-books updated with current and correct information. I weed out publications that are no longer in business (or paying for submissions), add new possibilities, and so on. This week I’ve just updated the directory of paying markets for book reviewers. AND I’ve revised (and expanded) the primer on low-residency MFA programs. You can find them both here. Be sure to download the free previews!

Whether you live in the Boston/Cambridge area or not, you can check out a few writing exercises offered courtesy of Grub Street, Inc. Even if you’re not planning to read at the next Riot Act open mic (theme: “Bad Behavior”), scheduled for March 6, you might still make use of the five prompts provided to get you writing in time for the occasion. Interested? Click here.

“New magazine in the Western MA area is looking for writers to cover stories that relate to the African American and Latino cultures in the area. The magazine will cover Health and Fitness, Technology, Business, Entertainment, and Fashion. Looking for freelance writers to create short articles and longer feature articles. Also looking for writers who would be interested in writing a monthly column covering any of the above topics. Compensation will be based on article length but will range from $25.00 – $50.00 per article.”

For more information see Western Mass Craigslist.