In this installment, I consider that intimidating and impossible list of what writers you’re reading that we all ask you to include.
Tag Archives: books
MFA Advice for Writers 2026, Pt 1 #AWP26
Returning to writing advice for applicants to MFA programs in Creative Writing, I start with the benefits and challenges of attending #AWP26
Why all the Writer Scams Right Now?
In which I wonder about the dark forces that may be behind the rash of scams directed at writers and offer some thoughts on how to respond.
How I revised, A Writer’s Craft
Now that the second edition of A Writer’s Craft has been sent to my editor at Bloomsbury, I reflect on the semester-long process of revising.
Thanks, Fake Elena Ferrante
It was nice to get such a complimentary email about my work, at least until I started to question whether it was legit. It seems I’m not the only writer to get suspicious praise from the mysterious Elena Ferrante.
Goodbye Oleada, Hello Ola, Subfolio, & Dapple
An update on Oleada and first look at three new submission platforms for magazines and writers
Pay to Give Away
How I learned that GoodReads has changed their give-away policy since the last time I did one.
Welty Symposium Recap
A few thoughts and pictures from the 37th annual Eudora Welty Writers’ Symposium.
Book Club Scam Targeting Authors
Some book club invitations may turn out to be too good to be true.
Reading Roundup, September 2025
Reading at small-town Mississippi bookstores is so much fun, no matter how many people are there.
Kendall Dunkelberg 