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:

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

Welcome to our Saturday morning event! Our group is run by a licensed MFA writing professor with 10+ years of experience teaching grammar, literature, and writing workshops to adults. The only difference? You don't have to apply, and this one is free!

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.

PLEASE NOTE: Registration closes Friday morning at 5am. We then create a roster and a waitlist (there are extra seats), so you should check back in on Friday to see the roster.

***Late cancellations affect future roster selections***

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:

IN-PERSON EVENT @ TEMPE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location address: 3500 S Rural Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282
MEETING ROOM 8

Welcome to our Saturday morning meeting in Tempe! Please bring paper copies of a draft/chapter you're working on. Consider the number of RSVPs to determine how many copies. Keep your draft under 2,000 words. We'll read the draft aloud and offer suggestions. First timers are always welcome. If you don't have writing to bring yet, that's okay too! Feel free to join us to read, hang out, and offer critiques.

FAQ:

What type of writing can be critiqued?
We read everything! Bring your novel, screenplay, non-fiction, poetry, short story, TikTok skit, or anything else.

My writing is ____ genre, is that okay?
Yes! Bring your sci-fi, mystery, western, literary, or whatever genre you're working on. We love them all!

Does Tempe Public Library have food and beverage?
Yes! Grab a coffee or snack from their cafe area.

How does the critique work?
Writers will read their work aloud. The writer then silently observes and takes notes as the readers each share feedback in turn. Feedback typically consists of highlighting enjoyable aspects, as well as editing suggestions. After everyone has shared their feedback, the writer may ask clarifying questions if time permits.

Do I have to RSVP?
Please only RSVP if you have writing to share. If you discover you can't attend, move yourself to "Not Going" as soon as you realize you won't be able to make it. If joining to read other work and share feedback, but not share a draft yourself, add a comment so we'll know to expect you.

I'm on the "Waitlist" what does that mean?
If you're on the waitlist, you're still welcome to join us, but we may not have time to read your draft.

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 for support, which means pointing out the parts that are awesome and providing honest suggestions for improvement. You're welcome to ignore the suggestions or take them into consideration for the next draft. It's just feedback, and not all of our suggestions will be good. As the director of your project, you get to decide what's helpful and what isn't.

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 want to attend but I don't have any writing to bring this time.
That's okay! You can still provide feedback. See you there!

Is Red Sands on social media?
Oh yeah! Join us on all these fun platforms: