"Writer's Circle" Posts "Thank You" & Discussion Highlights

Editor's Note: The Writer's Circle is a new group that has begun meeting at the Boyertown Community Library on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Below is a follow-up from their first session. Next session is scheduled for Thursday, August 13, 2026. 

by Michele Barrett, Facilitator

Thank you for making the first Writers' Circle such a welcoming and encouraging afternoon. It was a pleasure meeting each of you, learning about your writing, and hearing what brought you to the group. We have a wonderful mix of poets, novelists, playwrights, children's writers, fantasy writers, and writers who are just beginning their journeys. I truly enjoyed our time together and am excited to see this community grow.

A special thank you to Dana Kramaroff for generously sharing both her publishing journey and practical advice for aspiring writers.

Discussion Highlights

• We introduced ourselves by sharing what we're currently reading and writing and what brought us to the Writers' Circle.
• We reflected on the long tradition of writers gathering to encourage one another, from Mary Shelley and her literary circle to writing groups today.
• We agreed to create a supportive environment where writers feel comfortable taking creative risks.
• Tell the group what feedback you expect to get from each of us before you read your work.
• Share approximately 5–10 minutes of writing each week.
• Offer thoughtful questions and encouragement rather than criticism.
• Begin responses with phrases such as “I wonder...” or “Have you thought about...”
• Focus first on larger creative elements rather than sentence-level editing.
• Look for both 'glows' and opportunities for growth.

  Dana's Writing & Publishing Advice
  Dana reminded us that writing is not a solitary journey. While encouragement from family and friends is important, every writer also benefits from building a community of fellow writers who understand the process.
  
  Dana also explained the roles of literary agents, editors, and publishing houses and encouraged us to recognize when a manuscript is 'ready enough' to send into the world.

  If you’d like to reconnect with our inaugural guest or explore her work, you can learn more about Dana Kramaroff, author of The Do More Club, here: https://danakramaroff.com
  

• Show up consistently. A critique group only becomes valuable when writers continue to participate.
• Join professional organizations such as SCBWI or Penn Writers.
• Read widely within the genre you hope to write.
• Study the craft through writing books and workshops.
• Keep a writer's notebook for characters, themes, plot ideas, questions, and inspiration.
• Research literary agents whose manuscript wish lists match your work before querying.

  Publishing & Craft Notes
  Books

• Save the Cat! Writes a Novel, Jessica Brody
• Story Genius, Lisa Cron
• On Writing by Stephen King
• Anne Lamott's books on writing
• Writing Picture Books (for children's writers), Ann Whitford Paul

  Professional Organizations

• Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI)
• Penn Writers

  Additional Resources
  

• Manuscript Wish Lists
• A dedicated writer's notebook
• Boyd's Mills workshops and classes
• Barnes & Noble's annual writing contest and publishing opportunitie

Looking Ahead

We’re excited to continue learning from one another in the weeks ahead. In addition to sharing our own writing, we’ll welcome guest authors who will offer insight into a variety of writing journeys, genres, and publishing experiences.

Please remember to bring a sample of your original writing. It doesn’t need to be perfect—a page, a scene, a poem, a chapter, or even a work in progress is exactly why we’re here.

More importantly, bring your curiosity, encouragement, and willingness to support one another. Every writer in the room benefits when we share our work and our ideas.

Tracy “TC” Slonaker was the guest on Thursday, August 6, 2026.  Tracy is the author of Closed Door Practice (published under the name Tracy Custer) Website: https://www.tcslonaker.net

Thursday, August 13
Diane Lauer Hallman
Author of Nurturing Wisdom and founder of SIMPLE Systems for Thriving
Website: https://simplesystemsforthriving.com/page/diane

Thank you again for making our very first Writers’ Circle such a meaningful beginning. 

More News from Boyertown

• OVERHEARD ... W always enjoy sharing good and important news.
• Philosophizing About Food With Francine: Blueberry Lemon Zucchini Loaf Our columnist shares how to make the most of summer’s zucchini bounty, turning an abundant garden staple into a bright, refreshing treat.