Joe's a mystery writer who's generosity knows no bounds. His blog teaches writers --- both those who're published and unpublished --- how to navigate the sausage factory of the publishing world. He's an self-taught expert on self-promotion and considers it vital to lasting success as a writer.
Besides offering invaluable information for writers of all kinds - and doing it with their own particular flavor of fantastic - Harry and James have something I've seldom encountered elsewhere. The comments section they have cultivated is possibly as good a resource as the blog itself, due to the amazing sense of community and the wealth of knowledgeable writers adding their own thoughts to the mix. For these reasons and more, Men with Pens deserves to be at the top of your list.
Allison Nazarian
· 1 year ago
Men with Pens: http://menwithpens.ca All of the ingredients are there -- relevant topics, great tone, interactivity, easy to approach and be involved. A pleasure to read for writers and for those in need of good writers/writing!
Most writing websites I've come across are heavy on one person's experience or their particular field. The Pen Men will cover anything and they have the varied experience between them to back it up. The comments section is out of this world, and they'll cover everything from writing your own web copy to the sometimes icky world of freelancing to creating believable characters in fiction. Whatever it is -- if you can write it, they'll write about it.
1) They interact heavily with their comment community 2) They publish stories that help writers make better distinctions about how they write and how they market themselves 3) They write actual *content* and not rehashes of over-blogged subjects 4) They're fun. And some of the pics on their blog are worth subscribing for :-)
Being that writing is only a part of my job, I love how they manage to weave in topics about productivity and business. Not to mention, the community that follows them is truly astounding.
They approach writing with good humor and high craftsmanship, making them a joy to read. They also have consistently informative articles, bringing me new ways of looking at all manner of things.
sarah
· 1 year ago
www.therenegadewriter.com is my choice. They have great info about approaching writing business from a variety of perspectives, usually not the conventional approaches. They also offer classes and invaluable writing resources.
James and Harry cover an array of writing topics for all writers from beginner to expert with a focus on what works on the Web. They have built a strong community (see their comments section), are extremely responsive, and they happen to be damn good at what they do.
Not only do they provide great content, but they pay particular attention to their readers and go out of their way to give feedback. As a new blogger myself, they provide some of the most valuable insights I've found on the net.
They go out of their way to create not just great content, but a great community. I feel like I'm visiting with friends and their extended circle when I go to the blog. That alone is worth the nomination, but then they have super-awesome content and guest posts that rock - what else do you need?
James and Harry are smokin over at MenwithPens. These two fellows have built a stellar community through their words... not an easy task to achieve for bloggers.
They are worthy to walk away with this honor because they work damn hard for it: well earned and well deserved. (And for all the said reasons from the previous repliers/menwithpens fans.)
Yay MenwithPens!!
Kate Malone
· 1 year ago
I wish to nominate Freelance Writing Jobs: http://freelancewritinggigs.com for your list. Most writers will agree we wouldn't be where we are today if not for Deb Ng and crew.
Deb Ng
· 1 year ago
Way to get out the vote early, James and Harry! ;)
My vote is for CopyBlogger http://copyblogger.com because I suck at writing headlines. :)
Lisa Keene
· 1 year ago
My nomination is for Freelance Writing Jobs http://freelancewritinggigs.com. A valuable resource for freelance writers with daily leads, fun distractions (love the Caption This posts) and good advice.
James Chartrand - Men with Pen
· 1 year ago
Holy cr*p, guys... this is humbling... (Bet you never thought you'd see the day I said that, eh?)
Man, this means more to me than anything. You guys rock.
I'm going to also say Copyblogger at http://www.copyblogger.com because that's consistently been one site that I've been trying to take down and I need him in the runnin- Uhhhh, I mean, yeah. Brian writes really well on writing.
This is my favourite writing blog and I eagerly await each post they write. They seem to genuinely want to help other writers and have a fantastic way of getting their messages across.
Sharon Hurley Hall
· 1 year ago
Tough call. I'll go for freelancewritinggigs.com, which consistently provides great job leads as well as posts on issues of interest to freelancers. I'd love to be able to give another vote to my other favorite blog, menwithpens.ca, but rules are rules.
Deb has actively encouraged me to write for a long time now, and I'm really really beginning to enjoy it.
Spencer Spellman
· 1 year ago
I also nominate http://freelancewritinggigs.com. Deb and Jodee have been a great help and resource for my freelance writing career getting off the ground and now my freelance writing website.
Leigh
· 1 year ago
I nominate http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com as well. I have been visiting Deb's blog for several years, from Writers Row to its current home at FWJ. The leads are always high in quality, but the community has really grown this year with new features and columns. It's great to visit a blog where there are as many as 70 or 80 comments on a post, and they're all actual comments instead of spam. I visit FWJ first thing in the morning, every single day.
I love the community, the generosity of Deb and Jodee, the hours of job board trolling saved by their daily leads list and the way they keep things fresh in a saturated market.
I know I'm just a tad bit biased, but I HAVE to nominate Freelance Parent again - while they earned a well-deserved spot on your list last year, their blog has seriously TAKEN OFF this year, and the quality of their content has never been better. Lorna & Tamara have really honed their voice and their business in the last 12 months, and it really shows.
Go Freelance Parent! :)
My other nomination (if I had one, which I don't, but I'm going to mention them anyway in the hopes that someone else can nominate her) is Selene Bowlby from iDesignStudios. She rocks. :)
Wendy Piersall
· 1 year ago
Oi. Such bad grammar in my nomination for a WRITING AWARD.
Maybe that's why I don't do any freelance writing?! ;)
Not only is every post well thought-out and written to benefit their well-established community, I've also found that my writing has improved significantly since I first found their blog. More than anyone else, Harry and James have helped me become a better writer.
Ditto on The Wealthy Freelancer. www.thewealthyfreelancer.com. Awesome articles from big wig copywriters. Usually the articles are about strategy and ideas for your business if you're a freelancer.
David Bridger
· 1 year ago
I nominate Get Paid To Write Online http://getpaidtowriteonline.com/ . Sharon Hurley Hall's tagline is "Straight Talk About Your Writing Career" and that's exactly what she provides. Excellent site!
These guys practice what they preach. The purpose of writing is to connect with others - and they have done an outstanding job of doing just that and building a loyal following in a relatively short period of time. Plus, they're a lot of fun!
John Hewitt
· 1 year ago
Harry and James at MWP have an awesome blog, as do Deb and Jodee at FWJ. I would nominate one or the other, but clearly they have plenty of support already. I haven't seen Daily Writing Tips mentioned yet, so I'll throw my support to them. DWT impresses me on an almost daily basis.
I'd like to nominate Anne Wayman at The Golden Pencil (www.thegoldenpencil.com). Anne's devoted her time to building an online community of freelancers, and to encouraging and inspiring us all to become better professionals.
Bob Younce at the Writing Jour
· 1 year ago
I'm honored to be nominated by one of the Pen Men. Thankya, Harry! I'd return the favor, but I trust you guys know how much I truly love you both. 'Sides, wouldn't want your heads to get too big...
As for me, I want to toss my vote to Rogue Ink at http://rogueink.wordpress.com. While all the others mentioned are great blogs and eminently useful, Rouge Ink deserves to be in the top 10 because:
The posts are packed full of practical tips. You might not know it, but under the sarcasm and wit at Rogue Ink, there's plenty of nuts n' bolts - something most of us writing bloggers (aside from Brian Clark) struggle with.
Rogue in hilariously funny. While others (Men with Pens comes to mind) keep it entertaining, Roguie keeps readers in stitches. I've not yet read a post that didn't make me laugh out loud at least once.
She doesn't pull her punches. Rogue puts it out there for the world to see, and tells it like she sees it. She's both irreverent and bold, and it works for her.
The posts make me think. Whether it's a post about gender-based assumptions in the writing business or it's a post about calculating freelance rates, this blog makes me take a look at the topic from a new angle.
Dougalfish
· 1 year ago
Scrolling down the list there are many that I have viewed and taken note of but one I always go back to is http://diaryofawordsmith.blogspot.com/. Wordsmith isn't afraid to tackle difficult subjects, but she does so with a good dose of humour. She's pointed me in the right direction many times and is generous to others with her links, comments and support.
Louise Bolotin
· 1 year ago
Ok, I nominate Diary of a Wordsmith at http://diaryofawordsmith.blogspot.com/ for being a consistently entertaining read as well offering a lot of insight and wisdom into the pluses and minuses of freelancing as a journalist, copywriter and editor. Wordsmith has also been attracting attention at the Guardian newspaper, where she's been mentioned in the media blogs several times in the last few months for her observant take on the media.
I nominate http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent/ Tamara and Lorne have those words of wit we all enjoy - I look forward to reading their daily adventures - It is like a real life novel!
Neil Baker
· 1 year ago
I'm also voting for the ever excellent Diary of a Wordsmith at http://diaryofawordsmith.blogspot.com/ It's an always entertaining look at what life is really like for someone trying to make a living as a freelance writer over here in the UK. The upps, and the downs, the good days and the bad.
Nelson
· 1 year ago
Another vote from me for the Diary of a Wordsmith. I have to say this else I won't be fed tomorrow morning...
Susan Payton, The Marketing Eg
· 1 year ago
I cast my vote for Freelance Parent too. The blog is well done and useful.
I nominate the Copywriterunderground.com. He is funny, smart and clearly talented. He shares his significant experience freely and raises the bar professionally.
Tammy (tee)
· 1 year ago
I cast my vote for FWJ! Deb and Jodee are priceless in their advice and style of writing!
Deb and Jodee and simply awesome and provide invaluable advice.
BuffaloJenn
· 1 year ago
I vote for Freelance Writing Jobs, as well. This is a great site that offers encouragement, support, advice, gigs, etc. It's on my daily list of sites to check because it always delivers. The URL is www.freelancewritingjobs.com.
Tom's blogs take a clear position and provide the ingrediants for discussions, these are not "sermons from the mount." His willingness to share his experiences and his elegant writing style are refreshing.
FWJ has built a wonderful community around Jodee and Deb's wonderful personalities. They are doing their best at a equitable contest to bring a new writer on board, and they offer daily content to suit the palate of newbie and experienced writers alike.
ArtTaft
· 1 year ago
My favorite continues to be the venerable http://copywriterunderground.com/ - which has been nominated in years past. It's both educational and enjoyable to read "in the trenches" stories from a marketing professional.
The author has a friendly and engaging style that I find refreshing.
JoniB
· 1 year ago
I nominate John Hewett's site: www.poewar.com His site is the best!
Freelance Parent is funny AND full of value. that's a hard combo to come by! (I think I nominated them last year too. hee hee. I know I good thing when I see it)
You've seen Tom Chandler's work before, as he's a top 10 winner the last 2 years. I believe he's gotten even better, and is as deserving as ever in this space. His posts are tight, cogent, and helpful. He tosses in a seasoning bit of humor as needed, which keeps his work from appearing too serious. He's an experienced writer who is sharing his tips, techniques and experience freely with all, something that I feel is a positive blogging philosophy that I wish more writer sites would emulate.
I nominate Rhonda from http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/. She write about simple living and enjoying what you have. Every time I read something of hers I feel calmed and honoured to be privvy to her life.
Monika always shares great advice and never in a preachy way. And she always interacts with her community. It's just a great writing blog.
Lori Cole
· 1 year ago
I'll put in another vote for Copyblogger. The site is always attractive, the commentary entertaining, and I learned just how creative a blog-site could be from them.
This has quickly become not only my favorite writers blog, but also one of my favorite blogs overall on the internet. Monika's posts are very informative, well-written, researched and organized. As another person mentioned above, Monika is very interactive with her community, and I've found that she is very sincere and genuine in helping others. She also has a very fun, positive writing "voice", or style, that really helps to engage that interactivity with her readers. I believe her work is absolutely brilliant and is definitely worthy of inclusion on this list.
Jaq
· 1 year ago
I nominate Freelance Writing Jobs (http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com) because they cover all bases when it comes to the freelance writing business.
Edward Shepherd
· 1 year ago
There are some fantastic sites listed here - huge 'commercial looking' sites full of every topic I could imagine. Perfect if you like information saturation.
But these 'writer's supercenter' sites were certainly not for me. I don't have the time ( or the patience ) to wade through all this ... seriously.
I'd like to nominate Ink In My Coffee (http://devonellington.wordpress.com), a superb blog following Devon Ellington as she wanders, weaves, ducks, and dives her way through the world of freelance, fiction, and stageplay writing. She also comments on issues that affect her writing, and through this she emparts some wonderful wisdom and advice to other writers who read her blog.
It's a must-read-blog!
Amy
· 1 year ago
I'm too busy to read many blogs these days, but I always make time for Web Writing Info by Courtney Ramirez.
My vote goes to John Hewitt and Poewar: http://www.poewar.com. He covers just about every kind of writing, often in lengthy series. Even though I'm not interested in technical writing, I'm learning a lot that applies to other types of writing (and other situations in life) in his current series. The personal experiences he shares make the articles read like chapters of a novel—he even ends many articles on a cliffhanger.
Jennifer Truempler
· 1 year ago
I'd have to go with Amy Derby's blog: http://write-from-home.com/. She shares her personal experiences and great advice on how to reach your writing goals. Her writing is witty yet sincere.
My vote goes to www.freelancewritinggigs.com. Deb does a Real great job looking for writing jobs for freelancers And also providing constructive advice for a Spectacular number of subscribers.
Grant Hopkins
· 1 year ago
You can't miss www.problogger.net in this list. While it covers a wider spectrum of topics than just 'writing'. His recent series on 'crafting a blog post' has revolutionized my own writing of newsletters - not his intended audience but I'm sure it's helping a lot of bloggers too - it is at http://www.problogger.net/archives/2008/08/12/h....
Morgan
· 1 year ago
I second Lillie and vote for John Hewitt and Poewar: http://www.poewar.com. The writing is excellent and he covers many topics. He has a great sense of humor, which comes through in his writing, and is able to share his personal experiences in a way that enhances the blog. Finally, and most important to me, his blog creates a supportive community. I never worry about posting there for fear of snide or rude (or even downright mean) replies as I sometimes do with other blogs.
Although I feel a bit of a traitor not nominating Deb at FWJ, who I check daily, I also subscribe to John's feed and check the site on a regular basis for interesting and helpful content that I don't find on any of the other freelance writing sites.
I loathe technical writing, but it has paid my bills on more than one occassion, and I would never even attempt the tasks if it wasn't for Poe War.
Acid
· 1 year ago
'Nother drop in the bucket for http://freelancewritinggigs.com; it's a terrific service for writers, from the well-paid pros all the way down to the amateurs trying to break in. It's one of the first sites I visit every day.
Deb rocks!
James Chartrand - Men with Pen
· 1 year ago
@ Mike - "They don't just rock; they boulder." Oh man - that had me grinning. Good one (and thank you)!
Judy Dunn
· 1 year ago
I say Men with Pens. They are consistently good, thought-provoking, with off-the-charts creativity. Talk about the perfect combination of useful and entertaining. I want to be just like James and Harry when I grow up.
These bloggers offer a perfect combination of entertainment and information. They are honest about how much they make and what tribulations they go through to be both successful writers and parents. I learn something in every post and am inspired to carry on in my freelance business.
gets my nomination... Where else can you get an almost daily dose of such elegantly written observations of today's world?
Braun Lyner
· 1 year ago
I'd like to second the nomination of the CopyWriterUnderground, http://copywriterunderground.com. I like clean, pertinent, commentary without the fluff that usually accompanies it.
Harry and James are the best writers on writing on the web because of their storytelling, their style, and that rare combination of breadth and depth.
John Hewitt
· 1 year ago
Thank you to everyone who has nominated my site. I appreciate your support and kind words.
Katie Govier
· 1 year ago
I would like to nominate Freelance Parent: http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent. It is a wonderful, funny and insightful blog about the triumphs and challenges of being a freelance writer AND mom.
aww, thanks Ed. I do <3 my readers! Yes, I do have to K.I.S.S. at About.com Freelance Writing as I work to transition newbies into filling all the big shoes around here.
Tamara and I just wanted to pop in and thank you all for your kind words. It is so incredible to know that our blog is meaningful to people other than ourselves. You folks rock!
This is a tough one. There are a number of good writing blogs out there that I read, but Michael Kwan manages to post quality content and on a daily basis. And, I also read it on a near daily basis.
Billie Gaura
· 1 year ago
I vote for Freelance Parent! Two very enthusiastic thumbs up as they say! The blog brings so much joy to my otherwise chaotic days. I look forward to the notification arriving in my inbox so that I can break away from work and feel connected to other WAHM's for a few moments.
Some freelance writers visit Copy Blogger each day for the good advice. Some freelance writers visit Men with Pens every day for the humor and thoughts to ponder. Some writers visit the Renegade Writer blog for tips of the trade. BUT all freelance writers visit http://freelancewritinggigs each day to look for work and that's why I'm voting for Deb.
Michael Yurechko
· 1 year ago
I nominate for Michael Kwan of Beyond the Rhetoric.
I nominate Beyond the Rhetoric because he's a straight shooter and he's in my RSS reader - http://btr.michaelkwan.com
Stephen
· 1 year ago
I nominate Michael Kwan at Beyond the Rehetoric. Hopefully this achievement will erase his past scooter and segway crashing escapades. How do you crash one? Well, I guess you'll have to read his blog...
I nominate Freelance Parent at http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent/. I have never read a blog on freelance writing while parenting that is as honest, upfront and relevant as Freelance Parent. I savor every post.
Jez
· 1 year ago
I also like btr.michaelkwan.com... there are some great tips on there for freelance writers, and I find the generic posts entertaining...
I nominate Devon Ellington from Ink In My Coffee at www.devonellington.wordpress.com . Her posts are informative of the writing world and a writer's creative process.
Brett Legree
· 1 year ago
I, too, nominate Monika at http://www.thewritersmanifesto.com/blog/ - her writing has always struck me as being very, very "real", and always interesting. One of the very first posts of hers that I read continues to inspire me to chase my dreams to this day.
Bob's posts and reports are designed to help other writers in a very practical way. I was really impressed with his honesty over the situation with Helium. He doesn't dress things up. He says what he means without saying it mean and I just think he's great.
Roberta Rosenberg
· 1 year ago
My favorite writer's blog, beside my own is, Tom Chandler's http://copywriterunderground.com ... smart, sometimes snarky prose that teaches and entertains!
John Soares
· 1 year ago
I proudly nominate Tom Chandler of http://copywriterunderground.com. He gives great advice on marketing and writing, and he does so in a wickedly funny irreverent tone.
Why? Her ideas, style and tips on how to move up using the skills you've mastered either at college or after reading lots!
Sharon Hurley Hall
· 1 year ago
Thanks for your votes, everybody. Can't wait to see how this year's competition turns out.
Sally - Snappy Sentences
· 1 year ago
Men With Pens http://menwithpens.ca/ are great. Consistently insightful, low on the sales pitch, and truly useful advice. A great effort!
HART (1-800-HART)
· 1 year ago
I'm a fan of Freelance Writing Gigs (FWJ) http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com/ because of the talent of writers that I have found for my network of sites, and is the first place I think of going when I wish to expand
HART-Empire Network
Sue Becker
· 1 year ago
I nominate The Wealthy Freelancer. www.thewealthyfreelancer.com. Great blog, great information, no hype or pitches.
I'd like to nominate the Copy Writer Underground ( www.copywriterunderground.com .) I've gained more insight into how we might look at a problem from a completely different angle, and that angle is often the solution that wows our clients. And, of course, he's damn entertaining at the same time.
Ntarugera François
· 1 year ago
Mike:
As I told you earlier that I'm a Rwandan journalist before starting blogging within the white paper, my nomination will of course recommend all people who have given their lives to inform the world without considering so much the danger of their lives. But mostly bloggers comes at the forefront because their deliver information instantly at any second of their fingerprint. All my best to the panel!!
His eloquently written words cast a spell keeping his readers so engrossed they read each and every word.
Doctor Gonzo
· 1 year ago
THE GOLDEN PENCIL! A great site covering the world of writing - marketing info, jobs, a wealth of important links - all in all, one of the best sites for writers on the net.
I nominate Storytellersunplugged.com for its three years and more than 1000 posts, all about writing, publishing, and what its is like to be an author. It's 30 contributing writers are all involved in the publishing industry in some way - from NY Times bestselling writers to avid readers to editors.
Writer Dad is fresh and exciting in the delivery of his material. Visiting his site has me feeling inspired, not just to write, but also to go out and enjoy family life.
He conveys honesty and sincerity in his writing, and obviously derives a great deal of pleasure from his endeavours.
Whilst it's early days for Writer Dad, you can feel he's going somewhere with his talent, and the compelling thing is... you feel he wants you to share the journey with him.
Mary Jaksch
· 1 year ago
I nominate Write to Done Ever since it was started by Leo Babauta, it's been my favorite writer's site. And now that I'm involved as Chief Editor, I love it even more :-)
It's a place where all writers can find inspiration, refreshment, and companionship on that long dusty road to excellence. Everyone is helpful and nobody preaches!
I'd like to nominate http://www.storytellersunplugged.com - a place where I've found inspiration, community, advice, and on occasion some fine fiction. At any given time there are thirty professional authors, screenwriters, booksellers, and even from time to time an audio book narrator on board, each with their own day of the month. A wonderful place to spend part of each morning or evening.
Deb
· 1 year ago
Thanks for everyone who nominated me - It's an honor to be your blog of choice as it would be an honor to place anywhere in the top 10 for the third year running.
Deb
· 1 year ago
Or rather I should say everyone who noiminated us - FWJ is a big community and everyone who participates deserves recognition.
janet Berliner
· 1 year ago
I nominate http://www.storytellersunplugged.com which is about writers and writing and is always fun and/or informative. Great way to start your day.
I would like to nominate John Scalzi at http://scalzi.com/whatever/ because he shares writing insight, blogs about a writer's life and inspires me to WRITE EVERY DAY! He also is great about plugging other authors on his blog. I have found new-to-me authors' work through links on his blog. Plus, he's really funny.
Adelheid
· 1 year ago
I second the nomination for John Scalzi at http://scalzi.com/whatever/. Not only is his blog entertaining and informative but so is the community of commenters.
I nominate Writer Dad @ http://writerdad.com/ without hesitation. Writer Dad has a phenominal writing style, and while he is not necessiarly a writing blog, just take a look at the comments. You will see that more than half of the comments left are based on his writing style, either how he has pulled a reader into his world, or how he can instantly, with the stroke of a key, take you back to that hot summer day when you were sitting on the porch eating a creamsicle with your grandfather.
Jeremy
· 1 year ago
www.copyblogger.com - It's not just Brian, mind you, this site on effective copywriting techniques for bloggers has taught me more about useful writing than any other site out there.
But still much work to be done...
Ruth Ramoifuila
· 1 year ago
I nominate Writer Dad, www.writerdad.com. I discovered his blog only on Friday last week and I have found his posts to be literally piercing and shattering.
It always offers some of the most insightful, interesting essays on genre writing and writing in general. From grammar, to how to market one's work, to neat little tips on dealing with promoting one's material at conventions, it's a wealth of information for beginners and those seasoned vets among us.
Writer Dad's observations on life are sometimes light-hearted, at other times serious... but always written with style from the heart.
Dana
· 1 year ago
I'd like to nominate http://www.getpaidtowriteonline.com. Sharon Hurley Hall has had a phenomenal influence on my writing career. (Sending kudos with the Men with pens and to Deb Ng, too as other favourites. There are some great blogs on this list already and I see some new ones that sound worth a visit too!)
Thomas Sullivan
· 1 year ago
30 professional novelists, short story writers, and book people from all phases of the industry -- I know of no other forum as valuable or as comprehensive to the writer as StorytellersUnplugged.com. Each professional takes a different day of the month to post an essay and the results span the gamut of possibilities. The eclectic mix guarantees the daily reader/writer a view ranging from the deeply poignant and personal to hilarious sidebars and a core gallery of in-depth advice and inspiration. It is simply unique. While the contributors include much celebrated and awarded literary luminaries, the follow-up posts themselves add valuable insights and perspectives every day. And you get to see the contributors go back and forth at each other as they might do in a literary round table, supplemented by a global readership who weigh in with their own experiences and aspirations. It is a very welcoming atmosphere for the interactive amateur as well as the professional. StorytellersUnplugged.com has become the bedrock for my day, and I hereby nominate it for Michael Stelzner’s top 10 writing blog list for 2008.
Lara
· 1 year ago
For my semi-daily visits to writing blogs, I can never go wrong with a visit to StorytellersUnplugged. It's a more conscious examination of process, from 30 different points of view. Sometimes it's erudite in broad strokes about where inspiration comes from, or how a character is born, but more often these bloggers detail examples and techniques that really stick with me when I go away to write my own words, about technique, about inspiration, about research, character, plot, and all in between.
I'd like to nominate The Writing Show, which offers information and inspiration for writers of all kinds, primarily through in-depth podcast interviews with aspiring and working writers as well as publishers, editors, agents, and others involved in the writing professions. As a matter of fact, you've been one of the guests yourself, Mike! Coverage is broad as well as deep. Nowhere else will you find Web writers, tech writers, and greeting card writers alongside novelists, self-help authors, and screenwriters.
It makes for fun, interesting and informative reading, often on the same day! Not only does he comment, but there are quite a few authors who read and comment, too.
Ntarugera François
· 1 year ago
Mike:
AS I wrote earlier than this before, I nominate all people who sacrifices their time to communication&inform people on what is going on around the world. But especially to white paper's designers as way to facilitate people having information all day long.
Keep moving till the world will be convinced of the white paper's values.
There are at least three main reasons for my choice: 1) The blogs are insightful, extremely well-written, and reflect the experience of approximately three dozen practicing writers; 2) the blogs cover an astonishing range of topics and subject matter and are written in a broad variety of styles -- there is literally something here for everyone; 3) most if not all of the blogs are helpful to writers in different ways, providing advice on how to write better and publish more effectively. In short, if your question has to do with Writing, you'll almost certainly find it on this site.
Writer Dad is friendly and inviting. His hook? His heart. He lays it on the line.
Dot H.
· 1 year ago
I'd also like to nominate Writer Dad. His blog has been building up steam, and his writing draws us in because it's honest, it's personal and it's just plain good writing. http://writerdad.com.
Lance
· 1 year ago
To add to this, I'd also like to nominate Writer Dad. Great writing style, and makes you feel connected. http://writerdad.com
BloggerDad
· 1 year ago
I'd also like to nominate WriterDad (http://www.writerdad.com). His writing is strong and his prose is lyrical in tone. His blog has quickly become a favorite of several writers, perhaps because he speaks to something inside fellow scribes. Perhaps because he motivates us to better our own game. Perhaps because he's just that damned good.
Jarkko Laine
· 1 year ago
I was coming here to nominate another blog, but then you guys reminded me of how much I really love Writer Dad...
So, I can't help it. My vote also goes to WriterDad.com for his touching, approachable writing style. He's a writer I can relate to.
I nominate Mens With Pens because their writing is sharp, fast and full of information I'd like to print out and keep for reference. They have insightful experiences on writing and they come across as one of the most down-to-earth people in blogosphere. Plus their advice is always spot-on and hits the mark! What else is there not to like or love about this blog?
Ntarugera François
· 1 year ago
Scrolling down all nominators, I came to get crosser to the Stacy,Matt,Christine as well as Mary Jaksch simply because they go deep down into professionalism. I nominate them but also recommending you to read them again. They have a touch which I liked.
I'm sorry to have sold out my choice as my best silver pen for my work as a Rwandan journalist.
Ntarugera François
Lori
· 1 year ago
I have to say that http://writerdad.com/ is a great blog. He is so easy to read and he makes me want to write more and do all the other things I have passion for. He is an inspiration with all that he writes about.
Gotta show a little love for the Copywriting Maven, who mixes simple how-to with the kind of perspective (often humorous) that only a seasoned pro can provide.
WriterDad is an excellent writer who proves it on every post he writes. With only 6 weeks of being around, Writer Dad has built a buzz that only one with true writing skills can achieve.
But, please, don't take my word for it, go see for yourself.
Writer Dad
· 1 year ago
I just wanted to pop in and say thank you to everyone who's throwing down the love for Writer Dad. My posts are the sit-ups, but you guys are all the flat tummies.
James Chartrand - Men with Pen
· 1 year ago
@ WDad - Oh dude. That's just too funny. NO! I refuse to be your abdomen!! hehehe
Randy Kemp
· 1 year ago
Since I am a writer myself, I vote for "The Wealthy Freelancer".
Casey Hibbard
· 1 year ago
I vote for Copyblogger.com. If I miss a post, I feel like I'm missing out on some secret that will make my writing even better.
Malcolm Campbell
· 1 year ago
I nominate Get Paid to Write Online because of it's practicality, and because Sharon has been there and done that.
There are so many excellent and thoughtful writers on the "blog scene." I have been reading one since the beginning, and watched his writing and numbers go through the stratosphere - deservedly so. He writes with his heart. His blogs can make a grown man weep or a "prissy sourpuss" laugh. Easily the best writer - a true author - is: WRITER DAD at http://writerdad.com/ . Congrats to all of the nominees, but
WRITER DAD wins.
Thank you,
Rita
betshopboy
· 1 year ago
I nominate Beyond the Rhetoric ( http://btr.michaelkwan.com ) because I want him to stay as a freelance writer instead of being a balance-challenged menace crashing segway and scooter!
Not only does she have great tips for freelance writers -- and doesn't limit it to business writing, she includes ALL writers, she opens topics for actual discussion. It's an interactive coffee with colleagues atmosphere, and very helpful for writers in all areas of the craft and at all levels.
Bev Vincent
· 1 year ago
I nominate Storytellers Unplugged (www.storytellersunplugged.com). I've been a part of this revolving daily writing blog since its inception and am as interested in reading the posts from my collaborators each day as I am in trying to figure out each month how I can best contribute to the writing community through my posts. The blog was a nominee for a 2007 Bram Stoker Award from the HWA.
Michael Kwan
· 1 year ago
A hearty thank you to everyone who has nominated my blog so far!
My vote goes to Freelance Switch, because the content is timely, helpful, well-written, and actually entertaining.
Lori
· 1 year ago
Devon Ellington's Ink in My Coffee is my daily must-read (http://devonellington.wordpress.com/). Devon allows us a window into her whirlwind freelance world - from her many novels and articles to her behind-the-scenes work in NY theater. Grab a coffee and sit down. You're going to enjoy every juicy detail.
Thank you, everyone who has voted for me so far. However, several people have contacted me saying they have tried to post here to nominate me and their posts are just vanishing into a void. Not sure what the problem is.
Bookworm
· 1 year ago
I nominate Diary of a Wordsmith at http://diaryofawordsmith.blogspot.com/ for keeping me entertained while making incisive comments on the media and life as a freelance.
This is a fascinating publishing blog for writers, written by a longtime book publishing executive, who was the editor for some literary giants, including Toni Morrison, Hunter Thompson, Tom Robbins and others.
Posts range from the practical ("The Book Proposal: Here's What Publishers Want" and "Building Your Author Platform: Ten Tips from a Pro") to the instructive ("Constructing the Narrative Arc"), to juicy insider dope ("How Hunter Thompson Beat Back his Writer's Block").
There's a lot to chew on for book writers, both fiction and non-fiction.
steph
· 1 year ago
I nominate Writer Dad at http://writerdad.com/. Sean has a very unique and incredible way with words and his blog about the process of being a writer is open, funny, honest, and demonstrates his eagerness. As an editor, I find his blog quite helpful for understanding the writer's journey, his thoughts on writing, improving, being published, insecurities, and so on. He shows a ton of promise for becoming a successful author, as his blog, only several weeks old and which has gained an already impressive fan base, has shown.
I'd love to vote for two more, but will play by the rules. :)
B J Keltz Write Your Mind Journals
Julie Campbell
· 1 year ago
http://www.storytellersunplugged.com Storytellers Unplugged is the best blog for writers that I've come across. Thirty writers and agents telling us wannabes how it is in the business and helping us on our way.
Not that my nomination is needed, since the comments are overflowing with Pen Men praises, but I love Harry and James at http://menwithpens.ca like family. Their posts are fresh, intelligent, relevant, a little quirky, and most of all... caring. they are passionate about what they do and those who they work with.
Their dedication and passion are inspiring, even if you're not a writer or designer. :)
You guys sure do repeat yourselves...there are so many great writing blog you haven't even mentioned yet
... not to suggest my own at Writing on the Web, but you haven't even mentioned the great ones that were paired up in the famous blog off done by Hewitt last year...
Come on, people, get your thinking caps on!!!
Liza R
· 1 year ago
One of my favorite writing blogs is Hell or High Water:
There's a great mix of tips and calls for submission, as well as writing ideas and personal postings. I've found the site to be an incredible resource. The tone is engaging without being over the top, and Beth has been nothing but helpful and friendly in all of our writing-related exchanges.
This blog - "The Book Deal - A Publishing Blog for Writers and Book People" - at http://www.alanrinzler.com/blog -- is great. It's designed in a way that's easily digestible, and it includes a variety of useful information and entertaining anecdotes about the book business.
Alan Rinzler, the blog's author and a veteran editor/publisher, uses the blog to share his insights, and does it in a very accessible way. It seems rare to me that someone with such vast experience and success in this field would be so open and willing to trade ideas. In addition, the blog is beautifully designed, and has a consistent and unique aesthetic. You really have to check it out.
Susan Johnston
· 1 year ago
I second Hell or High Water Writer (http://hellorhighwaterwriter.blogspot.com/). Beth does a great job of incorporating tips, new markets, and other tidbits that are helpful to both novice and experienced writers.
Even though I wrote the Ode to Good King James Chartrand (Men with Pens), I gotta say that Write to Done has me constantly wondering why _I_ didn't write that post. To me, that's a sign of a great blog no matter what the topic.
This is one of my absolute must-reads. I subscribe via RSS so I don't miss a single post, and I've found a great deal of very sound advice ranging from productivity hacks to sell-that-article guidelines.
Alan Sorum
· 1 year ago
I nominate Kristen King's Inkthinker writing blog. I have followed Kristen's development of this excellent resource over the last couple of years and she has definitely made an effort to assist other writers.
I love Susan Johnston's The Urban Muse (http://www.urbanmusewriter.com/). She offers so many practical hints and tips about freelance writing, and when she shares her own ups and downs I can instantly relate. If I could only check one writing blog per day, this would be it. Sometimes it is it!
Alan Stamm
· 1 year ago
Here's an enthusiastic vote for the Well-Fed Writer blog by Michael's counterpart and friend Peter Bowerman of Atlanta.
Like his two books + monthly n'letter, it's a consistently enlightening and entertaining mix of practical tips, tales from the biz battlefield and shared knowledge from fellow keyboard tappers on the freelance commercial writing assembly lines.
Oh, and did I mention it's a chatty and personal as a note from a pal?
My nomination is for http://getpaidtowriteonline.com/ I've known Sharon Hurley Hall since late 2005. Not only have I followed her career, I've profited from her advice - and I'm not even a free-lance writer!
She has helped me become a better writer. Period. Get Paid To Write Online is one of those blogs that you read when you want to gain some real-world insight into the mind of a writer.
You'll find that Sharon is more than a free-lance writer. You'll discover the daily goings on that color her world - so that she can color yours and, in so doing, hand you the crayons.
http://getpaidtowriteonline.com/ Sharon has consistently great content that has value to both the newest and the seasoned writers. Her tips on getting organized are key to surviving the freelance life. In addition she is generous with her information to help people new to the field prosper and succeed.
Kim Cornwall Malseed
· 1 year ago
I second the nomination for The Well-Fed Writer Blog by Peter Bowerman, I enjoy the blog a lot for tips and insights on commercial freelance writing and really like the conversational, engaging style. I've read 2 of Peter's books and subscribe to his newsletter as well. http://www.wellfedwriter.com/blog
Janice Cartier
· 1 year ago
Michael, I am not a professional writer, or I wasn't. I am an artist who writes too. Better in huge part online because of Brian Clark, Sonia Simone, and James Chartrand AND two more. Tei at Rogue Ink and Naomi at Itty Biz .
My vote? Copyblogger. You'll find the best of the best through there....
I'd like to nominate my blog, WordCount, which covers freelance writing in the 21st century - what it takes to be a successful freelance writer in the age of digital media. Since I started the blog in January 2008, I've covered everything from using LinkedIn to writing for the Web to what writers need to know about SEO to where freelancers can find free classes online to learn new media tools. In May I hosted a blogathon that attracted two dozen other freelancers. And one of my posts, on how to handle difficult interviews, was included in the 2008 New Writer's Anthology, published in August by Scarletta Press.
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to let more people know about WordCount.
I want to nominate: http://thewritermama.wordpress.com . This blog has been very instrumental in my writing career. Because of this website, I now have a writing space set up, and spend time actually writing on a regular basis. This site has been my link to meeting other writers. I have been reading Christina's blog for about a year and a half now, and every time I read it, I learn something more, and am inspired to write.
Diane
· 1 year ago
I always find help, inspiration and very savvy advice from www.therenegadewriter.com -- Diana and Linda encourage me more than they know!
Joan Kremer
· 1 year ago
It's getting harder to pick "the best" because there are so many great writing blogs out there. But in the end, I have to nominate Sharon Hurley Hall's Get Paid to Write Online blog.
Her posts are very well-written, succinct and always practical. She's provided a wealth of tips and resources for freelance writers, both online and off.
I don't know if I missed it, or if there is a reason unbeknownst to me why it isn't here, but I must say Naomi Dunford at IttyBIz http://ittybiz.com/ has got to be on this list.
Everyone who loves her knows she's got quite a potty mouth, so it that bothers you, don't read it, but I don't know anyone who puts out the marketing information as straight forward as Naomi. Not to mention there isn't a post I've read that I haven't laughed out loud repeatedly alone in a room. No one does that to me, but IttyBiz. She is amazingly generous with the wealth of information she shares- and she is as real as they come.
Kristen King
· 1 year ago
Thanks for the votes, peeps! I'd like to second the nomination of Problogger.net, which has been absolutely invaluable to me over the last 2 years in particular. Darren Rowse provides an amazing resource.
I nominate Michelle V. Rafter's blog "Wordcount." It's informative, insightful, and cuts to the heart of what business people and writers are thinking about today.
I would like to nominate Musing By Apple, which constantly seems to, more than any other blog I read in my "green" real estate and marketing/business coaching businesses (and I read many across multiple industries), take complex and sometimes troubling societal issues, let alone just observations on our culture and its "goofy" complexities, and "humanize" these important matters in such a way that "we dare to care." So much bloggin today I see is technically useful, but really more "wiki" in feel, even if unintended. It take a very special writer to both inform and inspire. For me, Musings by Apple, "keeps me regular," so to speak, perhaps even sane. I LOVE and highly recommend this writer's "life perspective," and more.
I'd like to nominate WordCount for best writing blog - it's a useful site for freelance writers!
Karen Swim
· 1 year ago
Michael, what a wonderful contest. There are so many wonderful writing blogs, and many go without attention. I hope that the unsung heroes find new readers through your contest. I would like to cast my vote for Sonia Simone, http://www.remarkable-communication.com
Sonia has a smart, warm writing style and delivers posts that do more than instruct on writing but teach you to apply that writing to sales and marketing. Her site name is extremely appropriate for she truly teaches communication. Each post serves us actionable information that guides you on communicating with your audience. This talented writer truly deserves a spot on your Top 10 list.
There are a lot of really fine writing blogs. Remarkable Communication, IttyBiz are two favorites but for constantly fine writing I have to nominate Annarchy (http://www.annhandley.com/).
I would like to nominate a newish blog called The Green Ninja. So far, it's a call it like you see it look at freelance writing on the internet. Besides, it's just fun to read.
Wow. Heckuva lot of comments. I can't believe more people haven't voted for JA Konrath's blog...
For my nomination, I would like to second JA Konrath's blog, "A Newbies Guide to Publishing" at jakonrath.blogspot.com
This is the best self-promotion site I have ever seen. The advice is solid and inventive as well as humorous. I have never read a single post that has not helped me with my marketing plans in some way. If he isn't talking about self-promotion, he's talking about publishing in general...This site really, really deserves a bigger fan base.
My vote goes to http://copywriter.typepad.com/ for its deep archives, great training materials, and an uncanny knack for posting the answers to my questions just when I need them.
If it were allowed my close second place would go to Remarkable Communication. Maybe next time...
Jean Gogolin
· 1 year ago
I'm going to be immodest and nominate my own blog on speechwriting - http://wordtales.typepad.com . It's new, irreverent, and full of the things I've learned from 25+ years of writing for CEOs, who are a breed apart. It won't clog up your mailbox, and the writing tips apply to all kinds of other writing as well.
My other favorite is Sonia Simone's Remarkable Communication, to me the model of everything a blog should be.
Ah, James, I forgot about Annarchy--I love her writing. She's very special.
Jean Gogolin's blog is terrific--pertinent to all kinds of writers, not just speechwriters.
Dang, there are so many great blogs here, this comment thread alone is a wonderful resource.
Patsi Krakoff, The Blog Squad
· 1 year ago
Actually, Michael, your nominations have opened a flood gate of inspiration for me. I was deep in the blog blahs when I read your call for nominations and started poking around at all these great resources.
Not only has my own writing been rekindled, but I'm embarking on a series of posts about content marketing and will be doing a few interviews. Thanks everyone for your indirect boosts!
I am a better at writing, and marketing my writing, because of this blog.
Steve L
· 1 year ago
I nominate Sonia Simone’s Remarkable Communication, she has changed my life. I've learned more about reaching people through her wit and wisdom than anywhere else.
Wow! Thank you all so much for helping me pack my RSS reader full of writing goodness!
My two favorite writing blogs have already been nominated, so I'm going to nominate the blog that has less votes (just in case this is a vote as well as a nomination.)
http://write-from-home.com - Amy derby has a conversational blog with simple tips that can help even a full-time, experienced freelancer. The stuff you know but forgot to keep doing.
I think nominations that are critical of other blogs (especially when it's negative out of ignorance - Wordpress makes it easy to create a professional looking site, doesn't it?) should be disqualified, but that's just my "let's not sling mud while we're nominating" mentality. I get enough of that on the political blogs I read. *grin*
Sonia is witty, insightful and relevant. Her blog is one of those that, if you aren't careful, you start reading and look up and realize 4 hours have gone by.
She writes wonderfully. I have learned a ton from her soft approach to selling and I look forward to every post she writes.
Michael@ Awareness * Connectio
· 1 year ago
I'd like to nominate Sonia Simone's Remarkable Communication blog for your Top Ten Blogs for Writers contest. Love the way she keeps the reader's interest and conveys practical concepts that can be used right away. I find something inspiring as a writer every time I visit.
I'd like to nominate Writer Mama's blog written by Christina Katz. I read it every morning and it has become my daily dose of writing information and inspiration. Katz serves a niche group of writers but her posts are universal for all seeking to combine their skills, dreams and hard work into a writing career. http://thewritermama.wordpress.com
I vote for Sonia at http://www.remarkable-communication.com/. She's an excellent writer, plus her content will help make you a better writer. What else could you want in a blog for writers?
She has provided me with more in-depth information then I can use in a year's worth of time. But its OK. I took notes :) GO Naomi!
That's not to say there weren't a lot of other really hard choices to choose from. I wish I had more choices. Amy Derby and and several others made it really hard to choose, but there's only one Naomi.
She has consistently valuable information for freelance writers & book authors, and is constantly giving back to the community that supports her (through giveaways, events, etc).
She has consistently valuable information for freelance writers & book authors, and is constantly giving back to the community that supports her (through giveaways, events, etc).
She's intelligent without seeming uppity, gives advice while remaining polite, and is useful while still being funny. And that gets my vote any day of the week.
hey i like this blog called http://www.trizle.com/ that has these awesome nuggets to help you in various fields like business, leadership, management, finance, technology, life...they use simple but effectively powerful words and the way they write is something which i have not yet come across in any blog...luv this blog..my vote is for them! they truly stand out.
Alison
· 1 year ago
Remarkable-Communication.com is fabulous! Not only do I read each of Sonia's blogs, I keep most of 'em. She's just downright engaging.
Ann has only been writing her personal blog for a few months, but already her stellar writing has built up an avid community of fans of her work. It's no coincidence that every post receives dozens of comments, as her stories remind us of similar episodes from our own lives, and she paints her posts with such humor and flair that we end up sharing our own stories in the comments so that they take on a life of their own as we recall and relate our own experiences.
She's the best writer I know of. It's a badge of honor among her readers to be the first person to share a new post from Ann with everyone else.
Beth Harte
· 1 year ago
I second Mack Collier's nomination! Ann Handley's blog, ANNARCHY, is wonderful. Ann is a wonderful writer.
If you want to learn how to write a story and also how to be INTERESTING, read Ann Handley - and model her!
Amber Naslund
· 1 year ago
And I fourth or fifth or whatever the nomination for Annarchy by Ann Handley. http://www.annhandley.com
If ever there was evocative, suck-you-in-and-make-you-stick-around writing, Ann's is it. If the book comes out soon, I'm camping out outside the bookstore.
Leigh Durst
· 1 year ago
I recommend Ann Handley's Annarchy Blog (www.annhandley.com) as well. She's a truly gifted writer who blends literary skill with a sense of irony and humor. Ann will make you laugh and cry while reading the same post. She will take you to place of reflection, nostalgia and contemplation. She says things many of us are afraid to say and with naked honesty. Her self deprecation and transparency aren't indulgent -- they're just real. This drives audience affinity and a lot of interaction. She doesn't have readers -- she has friends. Just check out the rich number of comments tied to each scrumptious post. I personally look forward to Ann's posts. They are like scrumptious deserts that should be enjoyed crumb by crumb...word by word. Ann is really in her element with this blog...and I hope she writes a book soon.
Junnette A.
· 1 year ago
I vote for Sonia Simone's Remarkable Communicationblog. She gives very practical and brilliant--indeed remarkable--advice for content writers and marketers (and of course to anyone who simply wishes to write, period).
<a href="http://www.copyblogger.com/" rel="nofollow">Copyblogger.com is also fantastic (I've been recommending it to colleagues and anyone I know who would pay attention).
I'll also go check out the other great resources nominated here. Thanks, everyone!
Monika Mundell
· 1 year ago
Wow, what a nice surprise to come back to. I would like to thank Cath, Kevin and Brett for your votes. I didn't even know this competition was happening. LOL, talking about having my head stuck in the toilet bowl. Oops.
Anyway, I really appreciate most of the nominated blogs here. Granted, I don't know all of them but many are in my reader.
It is hard to vote, because I don't like to pull favorites at all. However, because of the name of the game it will have to be www.MenWithPens.ca simply for the reason that I have learned so much from these guys and while I don't have the time to engage in their awesome discussions, I still read them most days.
Plus James and Harry are great bloggers who really care about their crowd. Go the Pen Man. Rock on!
Chris Brogan...
· 1 year ago
Ann Handley hands down. http://www.annhandley.com . She's going to have a book deal any day now. Her memoirs are crisp, poignant, a perfect mix of sweet and sour, and never cliche. I never know where she's going next, but in that winding country road way, not that "lost" way.
That's my vote.
Jon Swanson
· 1 year ago
Joanna Young at http://www.confidentwriting.com is where I go for writing. She identifies themes (writing with confidence, with transparency, with respect) and then builds a community of comments, of guest writers, of links. She is about helping writers build confidence...and does it in part by listening to us and building our confidence as correspondents and commenters and contributors.
She invites us into her sitting room, serves tea, and delights in the conversation.
Jean Gogolin's WordTales is terrific--her tips work even for my 8th grade students. She's witty, smart, and insightful. http://www.wordtales.typepad.com/
Randy is probably best known as the creator of the Snowflake Method of novel-writing. Yes, he focuses tightly on novelists, but he is so funny I'd read him purely for entertainment value. His e-zine is really where his sense of humor comes across, actually, and it's one of the most widely subscribed e-zine in the world of fiction writing... but his blog gets more deeply into the meaty goodness of writing the Next Great Novel, a Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. Half the work is marketing yourself and your writing, of course... and as I focus mainly on articles, I treasure everything he says on marketing. A vein of gold for me in a rich mine for novelists.
patrick prothe
· 1 year ago
Remarkable-communication.com - newer but awesome wit and wisdom with huge potential (I believe). Not that there are many others also worthy!
Harriet Weinstein
· 1 year ago
I nominate the Renegade Writers blog. There is always a variety of helpful articles and it is fun to read.
All Comments
Joe's a mystery writer who's generosity knows no bounds. His blog teaches writers --- both those who're published and unpublished --- how to navigate the sausage factory of the publishing world. He's an self-taught expert on self-promotion and considers it vital to lasting success as a writer.
Besides offering invaluable information for writers of all kinds - and doing it with their own particular flavor of fantastic - Harry and James have something I've seldom encountered elsewhere. The comments section they have cultivated is possibly as good a resource as the blog itself, due to the amazing sense of community and the wealth of knowledgeable writers adding their own thoughts to the mix. For these reasons and more, Men with Pens deserves to be at the top of your list.
All of the ingredients are there -- relevant topics, great tone, interactivity, easy to approach and be involved. A pleasure to read for writers and for those in need of good writers/writing!
Most writing websites I've come across are heavy on one person's experience or their particular field. The Pen Men will cover anything and they have the varied experience between them to back it up. The comments section is out of this world, and they'll cover everything from writing your own web copy to the sometimes icky world of freelancing to creating believable characters in fiction. Whatever it is -- if you can write it, they'll write about it.
1) They interact heavily with their comment community
2) They publish stories that help writers make better distinctions about how they write and how they market themselves
3) They write actual *content* and not rehashes of over-blogged subjects
4) They're fun. And some of the pics on their blog are worth subscribing for :-)
Being that writing is only a part of my job, I love how they manage to weave in topics about productivity and business. Not to mention, the community that follows them is truly astounding.
They approach writing with good humor and high craftsmanship, making them a joy to read. They also have consistently informative articles, bringing me new ways of looking at all manner of things.
James and Harry cover an array of writing topics for all writers from beginner to expert with a focus on what works on the Web. They have built a strong community (see their comments section), are extremely responsive, and they happen to be damn good at what they do.
They have excellent writing, great topic coverage and incredible consistency. They also communicate with their readers better than anyone I've seen.
Not only do they provide great content, but they pay particular attention to their readers and go out of their way to give feedback. As a new blogger myself, they provide some of the most valuable insights I've found on the net.
They go out of their way to create not just great content, but a great community. I feel like I'm visiting with friends and their extended circle when I go to the blog. That alone is worth the nomination, but then they have super-awesome content and guest posts that rock - what else do you need?
James and Harry are smokin over at MenwithPens. These two fellows have built a stellar community through their words... not an easy task to achieve for bloggers.
They are worthy to walk away with this honor because they work damn hard for it: well earned and well deserved. (And for all the said reasons from the previous repliers/menwithpens fans.)
Yay MenwithPens!!
My vote is for CopyBlogger http://copyblogger.com because I suck at writing headlines. :)
Man, this means more to me than anything. You guys rock.
I'm going to also say Copyblogger at http://www.copyblogger.com because that's consistently been one site that I've been trying to take down and I need him in the runnin- Uhhhh, I mean, yeah. Brian writes really well on writing.
;)
This is my favourite writing blog and I eagerly await each post they write. They seem to genuinely want to help other writers and have a fantastic way of getting their messages across.
Deb has actively encouraged me to write for a long time now, and I'm really really beginning to enjoy it.
http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com/
I've found a number of great jobs on Deb's site, and her tips on Freelance writing consistently improve my work.
-Perry
I love the community, the generosity of Deb and Jodee, the hours of job board trolling saved by their daily leads list and the way they keep things fresh in a saturated market.
http://freelancewritinggigs.com
Rock on!
-EB
menwithpens.ca hands down! :)
Go Freelance Parent! :)
My other nomination (if I had one, which I don't, but I'm going to mention them anyway in the hopes that someone else can nominate her) is Selene Bowlby from iDesignStudios. She rocks. :)
Maybe that's why I don't do any freelance writing?! ;)
Bob's an excellent writer and I think his blog has a lot of potential.
I'd like to thank everyone here for the nominations as well. This is going to be exciting to watch for sure. I'm already on the edge of my seat.
Not only is every post well thought-out and written to benefit their well-established community, I've also found that my writing has improved significantly since I first found their blog. More than anyone else, Harry and James have helped me become a better writer.
Great advice, good job leads and Deb and engaging writing.
FWJ is the first site I visit in the morning.
Awesome articles from big wig copywriters. Usually the articles are about strategy and ideas for your business if you're a freelancer.
www.freelancewritinggigs.com
Deb and Jodee are the best.
http://getpaidtowriteonline.com/
Site is an excellent resource for writers
These guys practice what they preach. The purpose of writing is to connect with others - and they have done an outstanding job of doing just that and building a loyal following in a relatively short period of time. Plus, they're a lot of fun!
http://www.dailywritingtips.com/
As for me, I want to toss my vote to Rogue Ink at http://rogueink.wordpress.com. While all the others mentioned are great blogs and eminently useful, Rouge Ink deserves to be in the top 10 because:
The posts are packed full of practical tips. You might not know it, but under the sarcasm and wit at Rogue Ink, there's plenty of nuts n' bolts - something most of us writing bloggers (aside from Brian Clark) struggle with.
Rogue in hilariously funny. While others (Men with Pens comes to mind) keep it entertaining, Roguie keeps readers in stitches. I've not yet read a post that didn't make me laugh out loud at least once.
She doesn't pull her punches. Rogue puts it out there for the world to see, and tells it like she sees it. She's both irreverent and bold, and it works for her.
The posts make me think. Whether it's a post about gender-based assumptions in the writing business or it's a post about calculating freelance rates, this blog makes me take a look at the topic from a new angle.
Tamara and Lorne have those words of wit we all enjoy - I look forward to reading their daily adventures - It is like a real life novel!
http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent/
Deb and Jodee and simply awesome and provide invaluable advice.
Tom's blogs take a clear position and provide the ingrediants for discussions, these are not "sermons from the mount." His willingness to share his experiences and his elegant writing style are refreshing.
FWJ has built a wonderful community around Jodee and Deb's wonderful personalities. They are doing their best at a equitable contest to bring a new writer on board, and they offer daily content to suit the palate of newbie and experienced writers alike.
The author has a friendly and engaging style that I find refreshing.
I have learned more about freelancing from that blog than any other source!
They are straight-forward and completely entertaining as they try to help other writers. I vote for them!
I check for job leads every week day.
You've seen Tom Chandler's work before, as he's a top 10 winner the last 2 years. I believe he's gotten even better, and is as deserving as ever in this space. His posts are tight, cogent, and helpful. He tosses in a seasoning bit of humor as needed, which keeps his work from appearing too serious. He's an experienced writer who is sharing his tips, techniques and experience freely with all, something that I feel is a positive blogging philosophy that I wish more writer sites would emulate.
Regards,
Dr. Mitchell R. White
I'm not a writer and I still get tons of great information from those guys. :)
www.SBAKERMEDIAGROUP.com
Monika always shares great advice and never in a preachy way. And she always interacts with her community. It's just a great writing blog.
They more than rock. They boulder!
This has quickly become not only my favorite writers blog, but also one of my favorite blogs overall on the internet. Monika's posts are very informative, well-written, researched and organized. As another person mentioned above, Monika is very interactive with her community, and I've found that she is very sincere and genuine in helping others. She also has a very fun, positive writing "voice", or style, that really helps to engage that interactivity with her readers. I believe her work is absolutely brilliant and is definitely worthy of inclusion on this list.
Perfect if you like information saturation.
But these 'writer's supercenter' sites were certainly not for me. I don't have the time ( or the patience ) to wade through all this ... seriously.
What site did I choose?
http://freelancewrite.about.com/
Just the facts , simple , clean , easy.
It's a must-read-blog!
http://webwritinginfo.com
Their advice is useful and is written in a warm and human way. They strike a great balance between optimism motivation and getting real.
It is the blog about writing I follow most regularly.
The writing is excellent and he covers many topics. He has a great sense of humor, which comes through in his writing, and is able to share his personal experiences in a way that enhances the blog. Finally, and most important to me, his blog creates a supportive community. I never worry about posting there for fear of snide or rude (or even downright mean) replies as I sometimes do with other blogs.
a great site with job links and advice.
Although I feel a bit of a traitor not nominating Deb at FWJ, who I check daily, I also subscribe to John's feed and check the site on a regular basis for interesting and helpful content that I don't find on any of the other freelance writing sites.
I loathe technical writing, but it has paid my bills on more than one occassion, and I would never even attempt the tasks if it wasn't for Poe War.
Deb rocks!
Solid, contextualized and humurous posts. Elegantly written.
http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent/
These bloggers offer a perfect combination of entertainment and information. They are honest about how much they make and what tribulations they go through to be both successful writers and parents. I learn something in every post and am inspired to carry on in my freelance business.
http://diaryofawordsmith.blogspot.com/
gets my nomination... Where else can you get an almost daily dose of such elegantly written observations of today's world?
Great site, "two thumbs up!"
Harry and James are the best writers on writing on the web because of their storytelling, their style, and that rare combination of breadth and depth.
:)Honored!
She gives pratical, actionable, easy-to-understand advice and has a warm, accessible "voice".
This is a tough one. There are a number of good writing blogs out there that I read, but Michael Kwan manages to post quality content and on a daily basis. And, I also read it on a near daily basis.
http://www.sparkplugging.com/freelance-parent/
http://beyondtherhetoric.com
http://btr.michaelkwan.com
http://btr.michaelkwan.com
Bob's posts and reports are designed to help other writers in a very practical way. I was really impressed with his honesty over the situation with Helium. He doesn't dress things up. He says what he means without saying it mean and I just think he's great.
Why? Her ideas, style and tips on how to move up using the skills you've mastered either at college or after reading lots!
HART-Empire Network
http://www.feedcopy.com/blog
And, of course, he's damn entertaining at the same time.
As I told you earlier that I'm a Rwandan journalist before starting blogging within the white paper, my nomination will of course recommend all people who have given their lives to inform the world without considering so much the danger of their lives. But mostly bloggers comes at the forefront because their deliver information instantly at any second of their fingerprint. All my best to the panel!!
Ntarugera François
His eloquently written words cast a spell keeping his readers so engrossed they read each and every word.
I have it in my 'favorites', so should you!
http://www.thegoldenpencil.com
Writer Dad is fresh and exciting in the delivery of his material. Visiting his site has me feeling inspired, not just to write, but also to go out and enjoy family life.
He conveys honesty and sincerity in his writing, and obviously derives a great deal of pleasure from his endeavours.
Whilst it's early days for Writer Dad, you can feel he's going somewhere with his talent, and the compelling thing is... you feel he wants you to share the journey with him.
Ever since it was started by Leo Babauta, it's been my favorite writer's site. And now that I'm involved as Chief Editor, I love it even more :-)
It's a place where all writers can find inspiration, refreshment, and companionship on that long dusty road to excellence. Everyone is helpful and nobody preaches!
Weird. But awesome.
http://scalzi.com/whatever/
because he shares writing insight, blogs about a writer's life and inspires me to WRITE EVERY DAY! He also is great about plugging other authors on his blog. I have found new-to-me authors' work through links on his blog. Plus, he's really funny.
But still much work to be done...
It always offers some of the most insightful, interesting essays on genre writing and writing in general. From grammar, to how to market one's work, to neat little tips on dealing with promoting one's material at conventions, it's a wealth of information for beginners and those seasoned vets among us.
Writer Dad's observations on life are sometimes light-hearted, at other times serious... but always written with style from the heart.
(Sending kudos with the Men with pens and to Deb Ng, too as other favourites. There are some great blogs on this list already and I see some new ones that sound worth a visit too!)
It makes for fun, interesting and informative reading, often on the same day! Not only does he comment, but there are quite a few authors who read and comment, too.
AS I wrote earlier than this before, I nominate all people who sacrifices their time to communication&inform people on what is going on around the world.
But especially to white paper's designers as way to facilitate people having information all day long.
Keep moving till the world will be convinced of the white paper's values.
Ntarugera François
John does a good job and posts job links.
http://freelancewritinggigs.com
Not only a source of writing advice but of jobs as well.
I'd like to recommend as the best or favorite writing blog site StorytellersUnplugged at http://www.storytellersunplugged.com/
There are at least three main reasons for my choice: 1) The blogs are insightful, extremely well-written, and reflect the experience of approximately three dozen practicing writers; 2) the blogs cover an astonishing range of topics and subject matter and are written in a broad variety of styles -- there is literally something here for everyone; 3) most if not all of the blogs are helpful to writers in different ways, providing advice on how to write better and publish more effectively. In short, if your question has to do with Writing, you'll almost certainly find it on this site.
Sincerely,
John B. Rosenman
Writer Dad is friendly and inviting. His hook? His heart. He lays it on the line.
http://writerdad.com
So, I can't help it. My vote also goes to WriterDad.com for his touching, approachable writing style. He's a writer I can relate to.
http://writerdad.com/
He writes remarkably well.
I'm sorry to have sold out my choice as my best silver pen for my work as a Rwandan journalist.
Ntarugera François
http://copywritingmaven.com
WriterDad is an excellent writer who proves it on every post he writes. With only 6 weeks of being around, Writer Dad has built a buzz that only one with true writing skills can achieve.
But, please, don't take my word for it, go see for yourself.
It's at http://getpaidtowriteonline.com/
Malcolm
WRITER DAD at http://writerdad.com/ . Congrats to all of the nominees, but
WRITER DAD wins.
Thank you,
Rita
Not only does she have great tips for freelance writers -- and doesn't limit it to business writing, she includes ALL writers, she opens topics for actual discussion. It's an interactive coffee with colleagues atmosphere, and very helpful for writers in all areas of the craft and at all levels.
My vote goes to Freelance Switch, because the content is timely, helpful, well-written, and actually entertaining.
<abbr>Lori's last blog post..It's Unlimited, With Certain Limits, Of Course</abbr>
I do love Michael Kwan's Beyond the Rhetoric (http://btr.michaelkwan.com). He provides LOTS of useful suggestions on writing.
<abbr>Raul's last blog post..Septiembre, Mes de la Patria</abbr>
for keeping me entertained while making incisive comments on the media and life as a freelance.
This is a fascinating publishing blog for writers, written by a longtime book publishing executive, who was the editor for some literary giants, including Toni Morrison, Hunter Thompson, Tom Robbins and others.
Posts range from the practical ("The Book Proposal: Here's What Publishers Want" and "Building Your Author Platform: Ten Tips from a Pro") to the instructive ("Constructing the Narrative Arc"), to juicy insider dope ("How Hunter Thompson Beat Back his Writer's Block").
There's a lot to chew on for book writers, both fiction and non-fiction.
Rock on, Sean!
<abbr>steph's last blog post..Letting Go</abbr>
http://menwithpens.ca
I'd love to vote for two more, but will play by the rules. :)
B J Keltz
Write Your Mind Journals
Storytellers Unplugged is the best blog for writers that I've come across. Thirty writers and agents telling us wannabes how it is in the business and helping us on our way.
http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com/
Michael, I can't pick this year. There are too many good ones. Can you start doing a Top 100 list? ;-)
<abbr>Amy Derby's last blog post..Freelance Writing Blogs That Rock</abbr>
Not that my nomination is needed, since the comments are overflowing with Pen Men praises, but I love Harry and James at http://menwithpens.ca like family. Their posts are fresh, intelligent, relevant, a little quirky, and most of all... caring. they are passionate about what they do and those who they work with.
Their dedication and passion are inspiring, even if you're not a writer or designer. :)
http://menwithpens.ca/
I like the way of writing. I enjoy their article which is very informative and fresh with nice joke.
It provides valuable tips for the bloggers.
<abbr>Al at 7P's last blog post..The Criminally-Minded Approach for Achieving Goals</abbr>
You guys sure do repeat yourselves...there are so many great writing blog you haven't even mentioned yet
... not to suggest my own at Writing on the Web, but you haven't even mentioned the great ones that were paired up in the famous blog off done by Hewitt last year...
Come on, people, get your thinking caps on!!!
http://hellorhighwaterwriter.blogspot.com/
There's a great mix of tips and calls for submission, as well as writing ideas and personal postings. I've found the site to be an incredible resource. The tone is engaging without being over the top, and Beth has been nothing but helpful and friendly in all of our writing-related exchanges.
Alan Rinzler, the blog's author and a veteran editor/publisher, uses the blog to share his insights, and does it in a very accessible way. It seems rare to me that someone with such vast experience and success in this field would be so open and willing to trade ideas. In addition, the blog is beautifully designed, and has a consistent and unique aesthetic. You really have to check it out.
<abbr>Susan Johnston's last blog post..6 Ways to Liven Up Your Copy</abbr>
http://writetodone.com/
This is one of my absolute must-reads. I subscribe via RSS so I don't miss a single post, and I've found a great deal of very sound advice ranging from productivity hacks to sell-that-article guidelines.
http://inkthinkerblog.com
Like his two books + monthly n'letter, it's a consistently enlightening and entertaining mix of practical tips, tales from the biz battlefield and shared knowledge from fellow keyboard tappers on the freelance commercial writing assembly lines.
Oh, and did I mention it's a chatty and personal as a note from a pal?
Check it out and sign up for an e-mail or RSS feed at: http://www.wellfedwriter.com/blog
I've known Sharon Hurley Hall since late 2005. Not only have I followed her career, I've profited from her advice - and I'm not even a free-lance writer!
She has helped me become a better writer. Period.
Get Paid To Write Online is one of those blogs that you read when you want to gain some real-world insight into the mind of a writer.
You'll find that Sharon is more than a free-lance writer. You'll discover the daily goings on that color her world - so that she can color yours and, in so doing, hand you the crayons.
Cheers,
Mitch
<abbr>Mitchell Allen's last blog post..PayPal at the Pump - Don’t Get Burned</abbr>
I am not a professional writer, or I wasn't. I am an artist who writes too. Better in huge part online because of Brian Clark, Sonia Simone, and James Chartrand AND two more. Tei at Rogue Ink and Naomi at Itty Biz .
My vote? Copyblogger. You'll find the best of the best through there....
http://www.copyblogger.com/
<abbr>Janice Cartier's last blog post..Government By Utube</abbr>
I'd like to nominate my blog, WordCount, which covers freelance writing in the 21st century - what it takes to be a successful freelance writer in the age of digital media. Since I started the blog in January 2008, I've covered everything from using LinkedIn to writing for the Web to what writers need to know about SEO to where freelancers can find free classes online to learn new media tools. In May I hosted a blogathon that attracted two dozen other freelancers. And one of my posts, on how to handle difficult interviews, was included in the 2008 New Writer's Anthology, published in August by Scarletta Press.
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to let more people know about WordCount.
Michelle Vranizan Rafter
WordCount, http://michellerafter.wordcount.com
Her posts are very well-written, succinct and always practical. She's provided a wealth of tips and resources for freelance writers, both online and off.
<abbr>Joan Kremer's last blog post..How Second Life Cured One Writer’s Allergy to Networking</abbr>
Everyone who loves her knows she's got quite a potty mouth, so it that bothers you, don't read it, but I don't know anyone who puts out the marketing information as straight forward as Naomi. Not to mention there isn't a post I've read that I haven't laughed out loud repeatedly alone in a room. No one does that to me, but IttyBiz. She is amazingly generous with the wealth of information she shares- and she is as real as they come.
<abbr>Kristen King's last blog post..Saturday’s AIW Seminar Was a Smashing Success!</abbr>
Thank you!
Best,
Ery Shin
<abbr>IrreverentFreelancer's last blog post..Freelance Funny of the Day</abbr>
She has helped me a lot with networking and research.
Since I just get one vote, I'll vote for Tei at Rogue Ink, because she is hilarious and smart and spot-on.
And a giant smooch to Patsi for the nomination of Remarkable Communication, as well.
<abbr>Patsi Krakoff, The Blog Squad's last blog post..Blogging Blahs Gone Bye Bye...</abbr>
Thank you.
musingsbyapple.blogspot.com
Sonia has a smart, warm writing style and delivers posts that do more than instruct on writing but teach you to apply that writing to sales and marketing. Her site name is extremely appropriate for she truly teaches communication. Each post serves us actionable information that guides you on communicating with your audience. This talented writer truly deserves a spot on your Top 10 list.
<abbr>Karen Swim's last blog post..The Quilt of Life</abbr>
<abbr>James Hipkin's last blog post..Viral Marketing - Friend Get a Friend</abbr>
http://www.thegreenninja.org
For my nomination, I would like to second JA Konrath's blog, "A Newbies Guide to Publishing" at jakonrath.blogspot.com
This is the best self-promotion site I have ever seen. The advice is solid and inventive as well as humorous. I have never read a single post that has not helped me with my marketing plans in some way. If he isn't talking about self-promotion, he's talking about publishing in general...This site really, really deserves a bigger fan base.
http://www.remarkable-communication.com/
Her blog does what it says on the tin: remarkable communication!
Thanks for running the competition - I look forward to seeing the results
<abbr>Joanna Young's last blog post..Citizen Publishers: How Do You Show Respect For Your Readers?</abbr>
If it were allowed my close second place would go to Remarkable Communication. Maybe next time...
My other favorite is Sonia Simone's Remarkable Communication, to me the model of everything a blog should be.
http://www.remarkable-communication.com/
Jean Gogolin's blog is terrific--pertinent to all kinds of writers, not just speechwriters.
Dang, there are so many great blogs here, this comment thread alone is a wonderful resource.
Not only has my own writing been rekindled, but I'm embarking on a series of posts about content marketing and will be doing a few interviews. Thanks everyone for your indirect boosts!
<abbr>Patsi Krakoff, The Blog Squad's last blog post..Blogging Blahs Gone Bye Bye...</abbr>
I am a better at writing, and marketing my writing, because of this blog.
http://www.remarkable-communication.com/
My two favorite writing blogs have already been nominated, so I'm going to nominate the blog that has less votes (just in case this is a vote as well as a nomination.)
http://write-from-home.com - Amy derby has a conversational blog with simple tips that can help even a full-time, experienced freelancer. The stuff you know but forgot to keep doing.
I think nominations that are critical of other blogs (especially when it's negative out of ignorance - Wordpress makes it easy to create a professional looking site, doesn't it?) should be disqualified, but that's just my "let's not sling mud while we're nominating" mentality. I get enough of that on the political blogs I read. *grin*
<abbr>jennydecki's last blog post..Politics: No More Republicrats!</abbr>
http://www.remarkable-communication.com/
Sonia is witty, insightful and relevant. Her blog is one of those that, if you aren't careful, you start reading and look up and realize 4 hours have gone by.
She writes wonderfully. I have learned a ton from her soft approach to selling and I look forward to every post she writes.
for your Top Ten Blogs for Writers contest. Love the way she keeps
the reader's interest and conveys practical concepts that can be
used right away. I find something inspiring as a writer every time I visit.
<abbr>Michael@ Awareness * Connection's last blog post..Save the Words for the Happy Times, Part III: How to Bring Your Child in on the Solution</abbr>
It's tough love for writers from an editor's point of view and I think her intention to be helpful comes through loud and clear:
http://blog.writersdigest.com/norules/
<abbr>Nathalie's last blog post..Shameless self promotion</abbr>
Tagline tips and headline “how-tos” are invaluable, but I need more.
I crave inspiration.
And Naomi’s courage, goodness and compassion for the itty of the world—that’s most of us, admit it or not—provides inspiration in spades.
http://ittybiz.com/
She has provided me with more in-depth information then I can use in a year's worth of time. But its OK. I took notes :) GO Naomi!
That's not to say there weren't a lot of other really hard choices to choose from. I wish I had more choices. Amy Derby and and several others made it really hard to choose, but there's only one Naomi.
<abbr>Wendi Kelly-Life's Little Inspirations's last blog post..The Power of Your Secret Weapon</abbr>
http://www.christinakatz.com
She has consistently valuable information for freelance writers & book authors, and is constantly giving back to the community that supports her (through giveaways, events, etc).
<abbr>Jane Friedman's last blog post..10 Years in Publishing: What I've Learned (#1)</abbr>
http://thewritermama.wordpress.com/
She has consistently valuable information for freelance writers & book authors, and is constantly giving back to the community that supports her (through giveaways, events, etc).
<abbr>Jane Friedman's last blog post..10 Years in Publishing: What I've Learned (#1)</abbr>
Christina's blog is inspirational, informative, fun and the one to beat.
<abbr>Maribeth (marnini)'s last blog post..Walking on Sunshine</abbr>
She's intelligent without seeming uppity, gives advice while remaining polite, and is useful while still being funny. And that gets my vote any day of the week.
<abbr>DJ Francis's last blog post..Social Media Best Practice: Be Vigilant</abbr>
Ann has only been writing her personal blog for a few months, but already her stellar writing has built up an avid community of fans of her work. It's no coincidence that every post receives dozens of comments, as her stories remind us of similar episodes from our own lives, and she paints her posts with such humor and flair that we end up sharing our own stories in the comments so that they take on a life of their own as we recall and relate our own experiences.
She's the best writer I know of. It's a badge of honor among her readers to be the first person to share a new post from Ann with everyone else.
If you want to learn how to write a story and also how to be INTERESTING, read Ann Handley - and model her!
If ever there was evocative, suck-you-in-and-make-you-stick-around writing, Ann's is it. If the book comes out soon, I'm camping out outside the bookstore.
<a href="http://www.copyblogger.com/" rel="nofollow">Copyblogger.com is also fantastic (I've been recommending it to colleagues and anyone I know who would pay attention).
I'll also go check out the other great resources nominated here. Thanks, everyone!
Anyway, I really appreciate most of the nominated blogs here. Granted, I don't know all of them but many are in my reader.
It is hard to vote, because I don't like to pull favorites at all. However, because of the name of the game it will have to be www.MenWithPens.ca simply for the reason that I have learned so much from these guys and while I don't have the time to engage in their awesome discussions, I still read them most days.
Plus James and Harry are great bloggers who really care about their crowd. Go the Pen Man. Rock on!
That's my vote.
She invites us into her sitting room, serves tea, and delights in the conversation.
<abbr>Jon Swanson's last blog post..Seven years and 2751 moments later</abbr>
Randy is probably best known as the creator of the Snowflake Method of novel-writing. Yes, he focuses tightly on novelists, but he is so funny I'd read him purely for entertainment value. His e-zine is really where his sense of humor comes across, actually, and it's one of the most widely subscribed e-zine in the world of fiction writing... but his blog gets more deeply into the meaty goodness of writing the Next Great Novel, a Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. Half the work is marketing yourself and your writing, of course... and as I focus mainly on articles, I treasure everything he says on marketing. A vein of gold for me in a rich mine for novelists.
I really like her monthly themes. For September, the theme is writing with respect.
She is direct, friendly, and her suggestions are useful.
<abbr>Becky McCray's last blog post..How to figure out your revenue goals</abbr>