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From MWW Participants . . .

From MWW Faculty . . .

The conference was an excellent experience, well worth the trip from Kansas.  Because of the Thursday intensive sessions and my manuscript meeting with John Gilstrap, I have a novel that seemed destined for trunkdom back on track. – Terri Coop

As a first-time attendee to Midwest Writers Workshop, I came away with an "I can do this!" attitude thanks to the instructors, staff and fellow participants. Of course I felt very fortunate to have received one of the scholarships to attend, but I felt nearly as fortunate about the connections I made with agents, published authors and fellow writers. The results of the manuscript evaluation and agent pitch sessions sent me home with a even deeper motivation to finish my novel. Feedback was delivered in a constructive and positive way without being sugar-coated. I found the schedule to be just perfect! In fact I could hardly wait for each day to start, and didn't want them to end. The little extras like Shoptalk, the challenges, the shopping and mixers were fun. I was especially pleased with the book selection to purchase. I have already had contact with a few new friends from MWW, and I have referred to the organized and bound handouts several times. Thanks again. I look forward to next year! -- Gina Smith

*****

Check out Jane Friedman’s blog!

http://blog.writersdigest.com/norules/Recap+Day+3+Midwest+Writers+Workshop.aspx

*****

It was three days of back to back classes.  I thought it would be boring, like school, but it rocked.  I expected little as I walked into the Alumni Center where people in their thirties, forties, and fifties from all around flocked to become motivated to get their manuscripts off of their desktops and into the hands of publishers. Being there, at the conference made me understand that I am not insane when I have pieces of writing zoom through my head virtually every moment of the day; everyone else there was constantly mentally writing also. Everyone, even though they were all decades older than me, understood my passion. They understood who I was, and I did the same for them.  I have a totally different view on writers now; they jump bridges that were never expected to be hurdled over. People who write don't just wiggle their way onto the shelves at Borders; they work as hard as they can.  I signed up for an agent pitch session; I knew there was a 5% chance that an agent from New York would consider my book idea. I was nervous, but I embraced the next couple of minutes that were about to change my life. My future was not radically changed because she accepted me on a whim. I was honestly mad at her for not, but I loved her for officially accepting me into the world of publishing. Whether she knew it or not, by allowing me to sit at her table, it marked my independence in this new world of competition that I am now a member in.  Since I am officially a member, it’s time for me to write the rest of that manuscript sitting on my desktop, and jump for it. – Ellen Frank

The 35th Annual Midwest Writer's Workshop was awesome. I enjoyed the intense sessions. They were informal enough to allow for questions. The handbook has become a valuable resource and gave me an idea of what I missed in the sessions I did not attend. This year's agents were very approachable.  They gave an insight into the "business" side of writing. I also went away believing that I need an agent.  It was nice to reconnect with people I'd met the year before. The amount of writing resources provided by bookstore vendors Reg and Eleonore Forder continues to amaze me. The keynote speakers were on target with all their advice and inspiration. I especially liked what Shirley Jump had to say about getting the most from a writer's conference. It made me look at myself differently. The previous year I had just been a sponge; this year I saw myself as a writer. I wanted to present myself as a writer. She helped me to do that. Lastly, Jama, for all you do to make the conference a success, I thank you. – Rebecka Vigus

As expected this year's Midwest Writers Workshop did not disappoint. This is the workshop I mark on my calendar each year. It's intimate, informative and reasonably priced. The accessibility of the faculty to help with problems or to give advice is second to none. The intensive class sessions provide a treasure trove of ideas and information. And one of my pet peeves about conferences is that sometimes two sessions you are just itching to attend take place at the same time. MWW solved that by adding their unique handbook which includes notes for all the sessions. Along with the invaluable writing help at this workshop, it also delivers great food. Usually people wrinkle noses when conference food is mentioned. The meals at MWW are both delicious and hot when served.  The new additions to the workshop enhance its benefits. Online registration is a great new feature and easy to do while not being tedious. The agent pitch sessions are extremely popular and give writers a real-life look at the business side of writing. And I'll being using the wonderful notebook given to each participant for years to come. Illustrating the value of this conference, in the current economy with prices skyrocketing, this year's MWW had a record turnout. To find out how great this workshop was - just ask any attendee. – J. D. Webb, author of mysteries

Thanks for a terrific conference. I stayed close to home this year, instead of heading to NYC, and I'm sure glad I did. The staff and speakers were much friendlier, the venue more intimate, and the content comparable to or better than some of the larger gatherings I've attended. A friend of mine is just getting started in her writing career, and she was pleased with the information geared toward her experience level. As for me, I was interested in the agents' perspectives and the pitch and critique sessions. My favorite lecture was the one with Tasha Alexander and her agent, Anne Hawkins. It was fascinating to hear their back and forth on the author/agent relationship, how they came to work together, how they handle progressions in Tasha's career. I was thrilled when, during my pitch session, Anne asked me to send her fifty pages. Even if she ends up passing, I have validation on my pitch (decent enough for her to want to read more), insight into what she's thinking (can she sell my novel?), and excellent feedback from my critique session with Bill Fitzhugh, which I used to tighten up my writing before I sent the pages to Anne. Thanks again to everyone who made the conference possible. -- Barbara McLaughlin, Zionsville, IN 

One word that describes MWW is accessible.  In three days I sat in sessions that discussed writing humor, doing research and the proper query letter.  I talked with two published mystery writers, an expert on police procedures and a writer that created his own website along with not one but two agents.  Everyone was willing share their insight, listen and answer your questions. I'm already looking forward to next year. – M.W. King

First of all, thanks so much for putting on a super workshop!  I had the most amazing time.  I have never been to one, and I am just beginning my writing career.  I am so excited after having gone to the workshop.  I totally need to rewrite my script, but it's a good thing.  I learned an incredible amount, and I can't wait to put it all to good use. The booklet you gave all of us was awesome.  I read it front to back and plan on doing so again.  I appreciate that like you can't imagine.  PLEASE don't do away with that. I can't wait for next year’s workshop!  I made some new friends, and we all plan on going back again.  They were new to it also, and we can't wait to all get together again.  I have started a critique group with a couple of the newer writers like myself, and we're just helping each other as best we can and being our own little cheering section for each other.  It's been quite encouraging and rewarding personally.  I want to be sure to use some of my vacation leave for this next year!  I can't say enough good things about the event, the friends I made, the encouragement I found, the excitement and knowledge I walked away with.  I truly didn't want to leave!  I told my husband I had the best weekend I can remember.  It was really a blast!!! – Valerie L. Lechner

Thank you and the committee for planning another WONDERFUL conference. These three days each July have been the highlight of my summers for the past five years. The time spent there is fun, exciting, educational and most of all memorable. Thanks for all you do. — Janis Thornton

Thank you for putting on such a positive workshop. I learned a lot and loved the interactions with other crazy people who dream of becoming real writers. The conference helped rejuvenate me at a fairly low point (my mother had just passed away---the funeral was three days before the MWW began). Keeping busy and focusing on the future kept me from brooding over our family's loss (her death had been expected).  Thank you again for the information, the friendliness, and the hospitality. – James Rauschert 

It was my first attendance at the annual conference and I was impressed by the organization and professionalism. There was no wasted time and the facility served the sessions well. I attended the Mystery Novel writing all day session with Sally Wright. She was excellent in sharing examples and anecdotes that made the day move quickly. I measure value by the quality and quantity of the learning I receive. As evidenced by my ten pages of single spaced notes on the fiction writing process, the day was a bargain for me. Next year I plan to attend the entire three days because of what I observed. Thanks! – Tom Olsinski

I was unable to attend more than one day of the conference this year but I got a lot of help out of that one day. Thank you for a well planned and well executed program and thank you, Sally Wright, for all of the information that you gave us. (Those notebooks you gave us at the beginning of the workshop came in handy. Everyone in the "Taking the Mystery out of Writing Mysteries" class was taking copious notes all day long.) Since the workshop I've polished and submitted another short story. Thanks! – Tom Osborne

This was the first conference I attended. The biggest plus is the availability to all the rooms on one floor. The conference space is well suited for this occasion.  My favorite experience and, I hope the most helpful, was the opportunity to speak, one on one, to an agent.  I picked an exceptional one who made the 1-1/2 minute pitch easier.  The manuscript evaluation was an excellent resource.  There again, talking in person, to someone in the business.  The online registration could not have been easier. The literature, with maps sent to us, including pictures was excellent.  I took away lots of literature and wrote knowledge from the experts, to help my career. Happy people everywhere made this experience also happy and I was glad to be one of them. – Allie Hale

The 2006 MWW was fantastic—more than I hoped for. The classes I signed up for were focused, intense, and filled with information, to the point that my brain was so full by the end of Friday afternoon that I didn’t stay for the evening program. My favorite presenters were Hallie Ephron, whose "Fly-High, Fly Low Revision" class has me reworking a middle grade novel, and Jessica Morrell, whose focus on conflict and character has me still trying to absorb everything I learned. Lou Harry was informative, and absolutely a hoot to listen to, and I’m glad I squeezed in one of his classes. I really liked the bound session materials—that’s a definite keeper! And I liked having so many classes to choose from, although of course I wanted to attend more than I could. I had a productive discussion with Sharene Martin during my critique: things that worked, things that didn’t, but especially validation of my writing skills. That was a big boost in itself, but I was (and am still) totally shocked at winning the Largent Award, especially with a children’s manuscript. The check is cashed, but the certificate is still on my fireplace mantel. I’ve considered myself a writer for many years now, and I’ve published several children’s short stories and many newspaper articles, but the Largent Award combined with Sharene’s critique made me finally feel like a writer who is really on her way. A big thank you to Midwest Writers. This was my second MWW, and yes, I’ll be back! Thanks again. -- Jennifer Jensen, Zionsville, IN

*****

I enjoyed the workshop -- I felt that I received at least double my expectations from each session -- perhaps triple in the Intensive sessions with Hank Nuwer. Hank talked on Memoirs (I am currently working on one); biographies (I have a second bio in progress); and his titled session, Matters of Opinion, which I had related to editorial pieces -- he expanded the session to include it all. All the sessions seemed jam-packed with solid take-home types of stuff -- practical, applicable, and solid -- no "fluff." Also, I found Tom Britt sitting alone in the Atrium and we had the opportunity to talk business for the publishing of my second book -- he was most helpful. The expanded session schedule was excellent -- I hope you do it again. I attend the Workshop to glean everything that I can to help my writing -- each tidbit of new thought is important. I had my own notebook started by the time I received the handout booklet -- it's great -- but I continued my notebook, and plan to insert my notebook pages into the proper area of the handout book -- I'll be prepared next time to use the booklet. I felt a few conflicting statements among the agents and publishing professionals. But this did not distract me. I listened objectively trying to see both sides -- for ultimately each writer needs to connect according to their needs, goals, and writing level objectives. Even with differences of opinion, the professionals should NOT be eliminated -- I learned more about contracts at the ButtonHole table than I learned in the College Course that I took! -- Jo Overhulser

The 2006 MWW was by far the best I've every attended. How could it not be, since I received a gift certificate from AuthorHouse worth $698 for a book-publishing agreement! What greater motivation could I possibly have for getting my book together in the next twelve months. -- Shirley McMillan

*****

My first experience with the Midwest Writers Workshop was tremendous. I really felt the morning session with Jessica Page Morrell alone made the tuition worthwhile--and every instructor I encountered was extremely helpful. The information and suggestions were so practical, I have already begun to put them to use in my everyday writing. Not only that, but, I attended with two friends and we have already begun work on a collaborative effort. Thanks for all your help--and for all you and the committee do to make this workshop just what we all need. -- Debbie Josway

*****

This year's Workshop was even better than the last. I believe the best improvement was the workshop notes and materials booklet. Now the sessions I missed are there, so I really didn't miss anything. As always every presenter and staff member willingly provided information which will improve my writing career. The speakers were wonderful and entertaining. I love the fact that all aspects of the business of writing were represented. Count on me to be among the first to sign up for next year. -- JD Webb

*****

Although I signed up nearly at the last minute because it took me that long to convince myself I "belonged" at an official writing workshop (and even then I wasn't sure but I knew I would go IF I paid!), I knew within an hour of arriving it was an excellent decision! The intensive (with Hank Nuwer) was beyond great in terms of information, participation, and especially for ideas about future writing projects. It was the perfect prelude to Friday’s and Saturday's sessions. And the handout booklet was excellent, too, but I hope you'll consider adding the daily schedule to the front of the booklet so we'll have it "all in one place." Did I leave feeling overwhelmed? Oh, yes! But it was the "good kind" of overwhelmed and I'm still flying high...a week later. -- Shelly Gilliland

*****

This was my first MWW so I can make no comparison to past years--but KUDOS on the handout booklet, the variety and caliber of speakers (covering a wide range of genres), the opportunity for evaluation, and the input from agents/publishing professionals. Because of the level of instruction and evaluation, I got practical and specific knowledge of what I need to do to improve my writing, and that's saying a lot. Other "workshops" I've attended were mostly amusing anecdote sessions that offered little or no useable information. MWW, however, delivered value beyond every penny spent to attend. For me, it was like taking a series of master classes. The atmosphere was great. I loved the flash writing and other cute contests, I made good friends, and maybe acquired a mentor or two. Congrats to Jama and everyone who worked so hard to bring this event to us. -- C. D. White

*****

I am still absorbing the enormous amount of information that was imparted through the presenters and their references. The conference was a very rich experience. I was encouraged in my writing, got lots of great feedback. And I think I became more realistic about the publishing industry. The advice I received will help me in my search for an agent and for a publisher. Mostly I want to comment on how well the conference was organized. For the cost of only $275, the benefits were tremendous. I am still marveling that we were so well taken care of. Thanks and good luck with plans for next year.  -- Susan Morales

*****

Walking into the 2006 Midwest Writers’ Workshop, I felt like a seventh grader on her first day of middle school. Surely everybody else was prettier, smarter, richer, and a better writer than me. Surely everybody had already made a fortune with writing skills. Poor me. If it hadn’t been such a long drive home, I might have turned tail and run. But . . . I had paid my money, and I’m a big girl now. I could take rejection. Maybe if I kept quiet, nobody would know I’m just someone who likes to write and wants to be better. Maybe they would never know I’ve never sold a story. Before the first session, I discovered I was not alone. I relaxed, made friends, ate well, listened well, laughed, and learned lots. Walking out of the farewell banquet, I felt like a graduate on her way to conquer the world—the writing world, that is. Thank you for providing the expertise and the inspiration. I’m off to the Post Office for stamps. -- Betty Jo Riggs, Manistee , MI

*****

I've attended other workshops, but nothing compares to Midwest Writers. I'm touched by your dedication to writers of all levels. You cover every type of writing from the thinking stage to the finished product ready to be marketed. The food is good and plentiful. Presenters are accessible. It is our time, and we feel it. The topping on the cake was having James Alexander Thom and Dark Rain Thom. -- Mary Benson

I want to say thank you so much for creating a wonderful workshop and for all of the hard work that went into it by all involved. This was my first workshop experience that quite frankly would have dictated whether I would pursue workshops in the future. Not only did I enjoy the workshop and speakers immensely, I met many wonderful writers, some of whom I hope to form a critique group with. I left the conference encouraged to attend more workshops and with a renewed sense of purpose toward my writing life. Again, I cannot thank you enough. -- Diana Hurwitz

I wanted you to know what a great conference it was. The handout booklet was excellent, please do this again. Having agents, editors, publishers is of paramount importance. I would like to see a variety in the length of sessions (I know this is tough) as it seemed 1 hour on some was way too short, but perhaps lengthy on others. Also if more sessions could be repeated as it was hard to pick which excellent session to attend. Loved the idea of writers (experts) from across the country. Congrats on a job well done. -- Karen Patton

From MWW Faculty . . .

"The Midwest Writer's Workshop was not only well-organized, but it was a lot of fun!  The writers were all so enthusiastic and willing to ask questions, which I love because that's what I'm there for.  I would definitely come back, if they'd have me, of course." – Joanna Stampfel-Volpe, Agent,  Nancy Coffey Literary & Media Representation

"It was a joy for me to be on the faculty of the 2006 Midwest Writers Workshop. This expertly-managed event was located in a stunning facility and offered a broad spectrum of helps to both professional and aspiring writers. I should have come when I was just starting out." -- Susan Meissner

"The Midwest Writers Workshop is a must for serious writers who want a well-organized, informative, friendly, and inspiring conference experience. MWW boasts something for everyone, from the novice writer who is just getting his/her feet wet, to the professional writer seeking networking opportunities with other publishing professionals. This is one of the best conferences we have had the pleasure to be a part of, and we truly appreciate the opportunity to interact with the talented and inquisitive writers, organizers, and other faculty members and speakers. MWW mixes professionalism with Hoosier hospitality--a winning combination!" -- Robert Brown and Sharene Martin Brown, Agents with Wylie-Merrick Literary

Midwest Writers Workshop is by far the friendliest conference I’ve ever taken part in. The open environment and gracious organizers ensure that every writer arrives feeling welcomed and leaves feeling inspired. The instructors there genuinely care about the attendees and go the extra mile to help someone in need. I wish every writer could enjoy the heart-felt support and expert instruction that this event offers. – Jane Friedman, Executive Editor, Writer’s Digest Books