Do writing groups make a difference?

Well, who knows?

Some writing groups are very earnest and set themselves 'Creative Writing' homework - then read the results to each other at the next meeting. I don't know how they decide what to write, or whether the activities improve everyone's writing.

At Abingdon Writers we are all working towards publication, so we don't spend time on writing exercises. Instead we read from our work in progress - so on one evening you may get to hear some Young Adult fiction, part of a historical novel, a children's book (sometimes with illustrations) or adult/literary fiction. A heady mix. Both the writing and the critiques are of a high standard - we're supportive but honest, and criticism is always constructive. So it's slightly nerve-wracking but always helpful. Most of us feel that our writing has improved.

But no one has yet achieved mainstream publication.

But there's exciting news. The SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators)  runs an 'Undiscovered Voices' competition. Entries are long-listed and eventually some will be chosen for publication in the Undiscovered Voices Anthology. Competition is fierce. But guess what? Among the lucky few longlisted, TWO are members of Abingdon Writers. Jo Wyton and Sally Poyton, take a bow.

Has the writing group helped? Who knows?