NaNoWriMo 2007

To my friends who don't know what NaNoWriMo is:

"NaNoWriMo is an annual (November) novel writing project that brings together professional and amateur writers from all over the world."

The focus is on completing a 50,000 word novel. Isn't that a bit short for a novel? Well, yes, but you don't have to stop at 50,000 words. Plus, this is a first draft -- you can always edit and expand it into a larger novel. The emphasis for NaNoWriMo is on meeting your word goals, and some use this popular mantra:

"November is for writing; December is for editing."

For writers who find themselves constantly bogged down in minutiae or self-criticism, this can be a valuable exercise. A list of published novels that started as NaNoWriMo projects can be found on their website.

Finding others who are also reaching for the same goal also adds to the experience; making way for word wars, competitions between geographical areas, and plotting your own progress alongside other people, areas or your genre of choice. The forums and chat areas of the NaNoWriMo site encourage this, as do the numerous groups on Facebook. Regional areas schedule events including: kick-off parties, writing sessions at local coffee shops, and even all-night writing sessions.

Another advantage to participating is the pep talks: This year's were from: Tom Robbins, Naomi Novik, Sue Grafton, Neil Gaiman, Deanna Raybourn, Sara Gruen, Julianna Baggott, and Garth Nix. (One of the forums had an active thread titled: "Society for the Defense of the Serial Comma.")

Congratulations to all the other
NaNoWriMo 2007 winners!