The first business of a story is to be a good story. –C.S. Lewis (letter to Cynthia Donnelly, August 14, 1954).

Writers, readers, and editors never seem to exhaust the topics of good reads, writing well, and publishing. On occasion I have the opportunity to play a small part in leading  or joining in those discussions, which always teach me even more than I contribute.

Upcoming Events

September 26-28, 2019 — Maranatha Christian Writers Conference

I will be available for one-on-one appointments with writers who feel their books may be a good fit for Moody Publishers. Be ready to pitch!

Past Events

February, 21 2019 — Bridge Teen Center: Advanced Writing: How to write like your favorite YA author

A few times a year, I lead workshops with kids from the nearly 90 communities served by our local teen center. More information at TheBridgeTeenCenter.org.

February 9, 2019 — Guest Interview, Writing with Grace book proposal workshop 

I was excited to be back with author and writing instructor Ann Swindell as we talked publishing during this special online workshop. I encourage you to check out her website and sign up for news about her online courses.

September 15 — The Perennial Gen: co-host, Growing Sage, Wheaton, IL

Our online community’s inaugural workshop for Christian women over 45 explored purpose and vocation in the second half of life.

June 28 — Bridge Teen Center: Advanced Writing: Character Development

A few times a year, I lead workshops with kids from the nearly 90 communities served by our local teen center. More information at TheBridgeTeenCenter.org.

June 23 — Writing with Grace Retreat: panelist, pitch sessions

A writing retreat to help women writers connect with each other and more deeply with the Lord through their love of writing. More information at WritingwithGraceRetreat.com.

April 18, 2018 — Festival of Faith and Writing: panelist, Wisdom in the Shadows: Bringing Seasoned Women’s Voices to Light with Jennifer Grant, Kathy Khang, Michelle Van Loon

Those in the second half of life—particularly women—are often just beginning to discover their voices as writers. But it can be discouraging when it seems like attention is skewed toward the young and novel, instead of the experienced and wise. What’s an older writer to do? This panel explores these challenges and issues a call to see the wisdom that comes from age and experience.