A Novel Idea

There’s something novel in attempting to write 50,000 words in a month. At least, that’s the goal. Through the month of November, NaNoWriMo, the organization responsible for National Novel Writing Month, encourages writers of all levels — from literary soccer moms to prosodic professionals — to unite in the goal of writing 50,000 words of fiction.The aim is to get people writing, not to create high art, says Esther Vickers, local NaNoWriMo volunteer. Would-be authors get license to dust off their laptops and furiously peck away at writer’s block, hurling dangling modifiers and misplaced commas right along with the good stuff. Last year, more than 100,000 people across the country participated.From 7 to 10 tonight, the Writers Place (3607 Pennsylvania, 816-753-1090) hosts the kickoff event to gather, connect and prepare participants for next month’s 30-day marathon. See nanowrimo.org or call the Writers Place for more information.

Sat., Nov. 1, 2008