Writing While You Wait: How publishing short pieces can help you build an author platform and a loyal fan base before you get a book deal.

Like it or not, every writer has a brand. This session will teach you how to find your readers, build your fan base, and create your writing portfolio with book reviews, short stories, and essays. We’ll discuss the ins and outs of submitting your work, from finding the right markets for your work to technology to good manners. (Leanne Phillips)

My friend Brenna Humphreys and I are putting on a half-day writing workshop for SLO NightWriters on May 3rd! We’ll start with my session on Writing While You Wait, followed by Brenna’s session on Building a Better Critique Group, a writing session, and a workshopping session. The cost is $25 for SLO NightWriters members and $50 for nonmembers and includes lots of coffee and a continental breakfast with pastries from Pardon My French bakery! For more information and to register, visit SLONightWriters.org. I hope you’ll join us!