In 2008 I heard about the challenge to write a rough, sloppy unedited first draft of a novel in thirty days. And I had been writing since I was in second grade so it sounded fun. It kind of was fun, but it also
was exhausting and November always feels stressful to me anyway. I did do the 1,667 words a day to meet their 50,000 word goal, but the struggle to pick it up again and write the next 40,000 words that made it in, sure didn’t start on December First, or after New Years. But forward 15 years. I have finished 4 novels, three picture books and some private collections of letters I’ve written over the last 40 years. I haven’t made a ton of money, but I’ve managed to pay a bill every now and then. Best of all, it’s been fun to give author talks at schools, to speak to book clubs, and to read the books with classrooms of third to fifth grade students.
National Novel Writing Month. My favorite challenge
What a great story. Most of us have stories inside us but you actually went out and did something about it. Well done. And the collage is a great summary.
Dixie, That's Phenomenal! I commend your dedication! It's an idea that I mull, but I sense it may never be done, so good for you for taking up the challenge!
November 26th, 2023
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