Red Sands Writers Circle

To join the virtual meeting, click the link around the scheduled time. (RSVP to see the link. )
ZOOM: https://zoom.us/j/891797799
PASSWORD: 123456

Welcome to the Speculative Fiction virtual writing workshop! Have a document ready with 2,000 words (or less) of a project you're working on. We'll read it aloud and share constructive feedback. Instructions for how to have your document ready via Google Drive can be found here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1939kZ5oyloe16nIKX6X5-MK5yBozb5Zeb71kODDemhU/edit?usp=sharing

Alternatively, use screen share so we can follow along as the draft is read aloud from your computer.

If you have questions, please leave a comment.

GENERAL FAQs

What is 'speculative fiction'?

Speculative fiction is a genre term used to describe stories which are futuristic, otherworldly, alternate history, magical, beastly, or otherwise have elements which are not rooted in reality. Because the term itself is so open-ended, we are also very open about the type of drafts we love to critique. If you feel your project is speculative, it probably is! When in doubt, leave a comment or send a message to the host.

Do I have to RSVP?

Please always RSVP if you intend to share your work or move yourself to "Not Going" if you realize you won't be able to make it. You do not need to RSVP if attending but not sharing work, simply add a comment letting us know you'll be there.

I'm on the "Waitlist" what does that mean?

You're still welcome to join us to share feedback on the other work, just be aware we may not have time to read your draft. We will try, though!

I'm afraid someone will hate my writing, what should I do?

Don't be afraid! Rough drafts are always rough. Nobody will be perfect. We're here to support you, which means pointing out the parts that are awesome and providing honest suggestions for improvement. You're welcome to ignore the suggestions or take it into consideration for the next draft. It's just feedback. No pressure.

I'm not good at giving feedback to others, what should I do?

Oh, sure you are! If you've ever thought "Wow, that book was great, but I wish there was more of ___ and less of ____" then you know how to give feedback. You're welcome to provide as little or as much feedback as you're comfortable with. Easy stuff.

I'm uncomfortable with someone reading my writing aloud.

It's okay to read your own work aloud, but we will offer if you'd like one of us to do it. Hearing a friend read gives you the rare opportunity to understand how an outsider interacts with your story. Which sentences do they trip on? Is your 'voice' coming through? Reciting your own lines back is great, but consider using us as an opportunity to further support your journey to a fantastic final copy.

I want to attend but I don't have any writing to bring this time.

That's okay! You can still provide feedback. You do not have to RSVP to hang out and offer feedback. See you there!

Is the group on social media?

Oh yeah! Join us on all these fun platforms:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/redsandswriters/
https://www.instagram.com/redsandswriters/
https://twitter.com/redsandswriters

IN-PERSON EVENT @ Jarrod's New Location: 109 W University Dr. Mesa, AZ

Welcome to our Saturday morning event! We now run a lottery to keep our community diverse, respectful, and motivated. And it works!

HOW DOES THIS SYSTEM WORK?

Due to time constraints, we've created a lottery for those who wish to share. If you're new, just sign up and show up, and we'll explain in person.

If you are eligible to share, please limit your work to 2000 words.

Lottery events are designed with the intention to:
1. Incentivize diversity of authors (We don't play favorites).
2. Incentivize accountability (Houston: We have a flake problem...).
3. Incentivize new people to join while also rewarding dedicated members.

ADDITIONAL FAQ:

Does the event cost money?
No! But you must buy something from Jarrod's Coffee. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Please email mike at "redsandsphx@gmail.com" if you have questions.

Can I really bring any type of writing?
Yes! We love it all: screenplays, poetry, short stories, non-fiction...anything!

My writing is ____ genre, is that okay?
Yes! Bring your sci-fi, mystery, western, literary, or any other genre.

I'm afraid someone will hate my writing, what should I do?
Our moderator does not tolerate negative, abusive criticism.

I'm not good at giving feedback to others, what should I do?
Our moderator will teach you how to give meaningful feedback.

Is the group on social media?
Oh yeah! Join us on all these fun platforms:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/redsandswriters/

https://www.instagram.com/redsandswriters/