HELLO, MEMBERS AND FRIENDS.  

Feeling a bit uncertain these days? Is the current political and economic turmoil making you a little off-kilter? Instead of fretting, I try to write. I use the written word to sort out my thoughts and opinions in a positive way, but I also write creatively – I focus on my imaginary world and people in it. I hope you’re using the written word to carry you through, as well.

And, at the risk of sounding Anne Shirley-ish, I always feel hopeful and optimistic in the spring. The fresh smell in the air and the sound of chirping birds makes me Jubilant. Yes, jubilant. :) (I did promise my husband that I would just relax this summer, instead of launching into ambitious garden projects, but when the snow melts away and I view the back yard, I get this incredible itch in my hands…anyway, here's what's upcoming.

NB Writing Competition 2025

There’s just under 3 weeks left in the 2025 NB Writing Competition – submissions are a little slow this year, so please get ‘em in while you can! Don’t forget to encourage the teen writer in your life (age 13-18) to submit a story or a poem to the Sheree Fitch Prize for Teen Writers. This category is absolutely free. We’re also looking for more short screenplays, so if you’ve ever thought of trying that genre, this is the perfect opportunity. More information on our website at wfnb.ca/Writing-Competition

SEEKING SPONSORS for WORDSPRING and the NB BOOK AWARDS

WordSpring is coming, May 30 to June 1 at the Crowne Plaza, Fredericton. The event page is now open on the website! We are currently looking for event sponsors. Check out the schedule here. If you, or a business you know is interested in sponsoring WordSpring weekend, and/or the New Brunswick Book Awards, please contact us. Also, if you have photographs, or some other contribution to make to our 40th anniversary commemoration, please contact us at info@wfnb.ca

ENJOY the rest of March, writers. The robins will be building another nest under my deck in no time.

Cheers,

Rhonda

WordWorthy:

“All I need is a character, and then I can kind of figure out the rest of it as I go along. I guess other people write big, elaborate outlines, but I don’t really do that.”  Thomas Chamberlain 

Welcome New Members

Kasane Baxter, a student who writes poetry from Menahkwesk (Saint John) and has two self-published poetry anthologies to date. Welcome, Kasane!

Ellen Christie joins us from Grande-Digue and is interested in the genres of  Blogging, Copywriting, Creative non-fiction, Essays, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Photography, and Poetry. Welcome, Ellen!

Robert Doiron is a writer in Saint John who works in the genres of Fiction, Horror, and Science Fiction. Welcome, Robert!

Member News

Who doesn't love a reading? Visit Luke Beirne when he launches his new book, Saints Rest, on Saturday, March 29th at 6 pm, Gallery 78, organized by Westminster Books.

***

Heather Browne is pleased to present a spring writing course in Fredericton, NB on writing strong characters. See all the details under Workshops and Retreats.

***

Thomas Chamberlain is pleased to announce his first novel, Happenstance (working title) will be published by Galleon Press in October, 2025.  Happenstance was awarded Honourable Mention in the 2023 WFNB David Adam Richards Fiction Manuscript category, and after a rigorous editing process, achieved Second Place in 2024.

WFNB was a big part of the process, motivating Thomas to get the manuscript competition-ready. The contacts he made through the organization were pivotal in the journey. 

Thanks to all who helped. (Read more about Thomas’s journey our Writers’ Resource Blog!)

***

Casey Shelley will read and sign her new novel at a pre-launch party, for Rexwood Rings, on April 5 from 11 am - 2 pm at Indigo East Point, Saint John. No RSVP required!

EVENTS

WRITERS’ OPEN MIC
Sunday, March 16th
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Bill Johnstone Memorial Park Activity Centre
70 Main Street, Sackville, NB

The Writers’ Open Mic is a free monthly event open to all. Come out and read your poems, short stories, comics, novels, essays, twitter posts, stand-up comedy, etc. Or just come to listen.

A projector will be set up for those with comics or other images or videos they want to share. Just bring your files along on a USB. Accessibility concerns and general questions can be directed to laurawatsonartwork@gmail.com.

OPEN SUBMISSIONS

Calling all writers and artists, Geist is now accepting submissions! We welcome submissions of nonfiction, fiction, poetry, comics as well as hybrid works.

Send us your best work by April 18, 2025 at 11:59pm PST.

Please read our Submission Guidelines to find out more about what we're looking for and our payment rates: geist.com/writers/submit

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Submissions are now open for Milk Bag magazine’s upcoming issue: SUNBURN. They publish poetry, short fiction, art, and reviews quarterly.
Deadline: April 30th 2025 at 11:59 PM EST

Submission Guidelines: https://www.milkbagmagazine.com/submission-guidelines

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Whistler Independent Book Awards 2025

Submissions open until April 30 for these prestigious awards for  
fiction, non-fiction and children's books

Is your self-published book one of the best in Canada?
The Whistler Independent Book Awards (WIBAs) are recognized as the preeminent juried competition for self-published books in Canada, honouring the best of independent authorship in the country.

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Sunspot Lit's Inception 2025 Contest

Sunspot Lit’s Inception contest offers $100 cash plus publication for the best opening. Authors and artists eligible. All genres accepted. Opens March 1. Closes March 31. Guidelines and entry form here: https://sunspotlit.submittable.com/submit/318760/inception-2025-100-for-fiction-cnf-poem-art.

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Sequestrum

Themes: Love, Slipstream & Magical Realism

Deadline is March 15 for two themes: Slipstream and Love! They are after your most ambitious, imaginative writing. Bend fantasy, science fiction, magical realism, and literary writing together. Leave them with a sense of heartache and yearning. Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or some combination thereof. 

Slipstream submission details are here: https://www.sequestrum.org/themed-submissions-slipstream.

Love submissions are here: https://www.sequestrum.org/themed-submissions-love

General submission guidelines are here: https://www.sequestrum.org/submissions.

***

The third annual EAC Charles Moore Poetry Prize Competition is open for submissions!

Judged by notable area poets in Maine, USA, the contest aims to bring people together through the power of poetry, to help strengthen bonds within our communities, and to provide an outlet to those poets who may lack an arena to share their creative output. Cash prizes will be awarded in youth and adult divisions. A anthology of submissions, published by EAC and Sea Smoke Press, will include poems in both the adult and youth divisions.

A celebratory 'winners reveal', reading and gala reception will be held at the EAC, August 16, 2025, at 6 pm.

Learn more at eastportartscenter.org/poetry-contest

WORKSHOPS, RETREATS and MENTORSHIP

@audible_ca is inviting emerging First Nations, Inuit and / or Métis writers to apply for the Audible Indigenous Writers’ Circle 2025. The program begins this summer, apply by April 21 here: audible.ca/ep/IWC#AudibleWritersCircle

How to tag Audible:                
●  Facebook (English): @AudibleCanada                                                                                                                  
●  Facebook (French): @AudibleCAFR                                                                                                                         
●  Twitter: @audible_ca                                         
●  Instagram: @audible_ca 

***

Have you wondered how to best develop strong characters in your writing? If so, Heather Browne's spring writing course may be for you.

Over eight weeks, write with others open to the idea that the character is the story. Explore tried and true practices to develop the complexities of your heroes; then have them step into action. Who knows what may happen? To them? To you? (P.S. Something must take place!)

Craft your story with Heather Browne, local author, and creator of Writing Well, Writing Around the Table©

Open to all adults

• Tuesdays, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM,
• From March 18, 2025 until May 13, 2025
• Grant-Harvey Conference Room 202, Fredericton

For more information or to register contact Kathryn Baird, at 506-260-0605 or email Kathryn.baird@fredericton.ca.

***

2025 Sage Hill Summer Writing Courses:
SUMMER COURSES

Application Deadline: April 22, 2025
Application is open to writers 19 years of age and older from Canada and abroad.

IN-PERSON COURSE
Location: St. Peter’s College, Muenster, SK
Dates: July 2 – 11, 2025
Fiction with Madeleine Thien

ONLINE COURSES
Dates: June 30 – July 9, 2025
Emerging Prose with Joshua Whitehead
Emerging Poetry with Neil Aitken
Nonfiction with Jenna Butler
Poetry with Michael Trussler
Playwriting with Vern Thiessen

For more information and to apply, visit https://sagehillwriting.ca/writing-retreats/.

Scholarships and bursaries are available for the summer programs. For details visit https://www.sagehillwriting.ca/adults/scholarships-bursaries.

MEMBER NEWS

Congratulations to WFNB member and board secretary Sandra Bunting, who recently received the King Charles III Coronation medal from Senator David Adams Richards for her contribution to NB Culture.

***

Steve C. Eston is happy to announce that his new dark fantasy book, ’Surrender’, is now available. It is the first in the Baneseeker Chronicles, taking place in the same world as his previous book, ’The Conclave’. If you enjoyed ’The Conclave’, you will not want to miss ’Surrender’.

"What if you could defeat evil - but only at the cost of your sanity? Magic and adventure; for fans of Drizzt and the Witcher.”

‘A dark, often gritty, fantasy novella with a strong, female protagonist to root for. Highly recommended!’ - The Wishing Shelf

***

Aimee C. Trafton would like to announce the publication of her latest children's picture book "Be Kind." It will be available on Amazon on Feb. 1. 

Haven't you noticed?

Don't you just find

That the bestest of people

Are ones who are KIND?

BE KIND is an easy-to-read, rhyming picture book that teaches young children the most important lesson of all...that life is much better when people are kind.

For more of Aimee's published works, please visit her website at aimeectraftonbooks.com

***

The ICE DASH DOZEN – second anthology collection

In this second anthology of Shediac writers you will enjoy a wide range of literary talent. Several poets, lyrical and narrative; two or three memoirists; one historian; fiction and non-fiction storytellers; and a few who defy classification. The most eclectic collection of wordsmiths you will find anywhere in New Brunswick.

***

Rexwood Rings by Casey Shelly, releasing on April 8th, is the gripping first installment of a two-book dystopian fantasy series. Set in a world teetering on the edge of ruin, the story follows Landon as he grapples with an unthinkable responsibility—one that could either save his people or destroy everything he thought he knew. As buried secrets come to light, Landon must navigate a treacherous path where loyalty, truth, and destiny collide. Packed with high-stakes choices and a richly built world, Rexwood Rings is a must-read for fans of dark, immersive fantasy with a dystopian twist.

***

EVENTS

HAVE YOU APPLIED TO BE LISTED IN THE NEW BRUNSWICK AUTHOR PORTAL? https://www1.gnb.ca/0003/pages/en/nb_index-e.asp

The province of NB maintains a biographical list of NB authors. Have you applied to be on the portal?

***

If you're in the Fredericton area, and have a passion or curiosity for books and stories, come talk writing with Steve C. Eston at the Fredericton Public Library. We'll discuss everything and anything related to writing!

On the agenda:

1. February 6: The Writer’s Toolset - Being a writer and tools available.

2. April 3: The Craft of Writing - The theory, the rules, and when to break them.

3. May 1: Characters and POV - Developing characters, character arcs, and using point of views (POV)

4. June 5: Building the story - Chapters, scenes, beginnings, middles and ends.

5. July 3: A Writing Process - Steps to write a story, from generating ideas to publication, and beyond.

There are limited spaces available -- Register for the first session by emailing BiblioFrederictonLib@gnb.ca, calling 506-460-2812 or visiting the Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1313641573218380

***

Sackville Writers’ Open Mic – Check out their upcoming dates in March and April!

RETREATS

SPRING POETRY COLLOQUIUM
Facilitated by Marilyn Dumont
Dates: May 19 – 27, 2025
Location: In Person at St. Peter’s College, Muenster, SK
Application Deadline: March 15, 2025

This is a facilitated, in-person retreat for around eight writers. Instruction occurs within a deep-immersion setting, with plenty of individual writing time and focus will be on individual manuscript consultations and on seminar discussions dealing with technical, philosophical, or conceptual issues in contemporary writing.

Successful applicants generally have some publication record and are working towards completion of a manuscript. Application is open to writers 19 years of age and older from Canada and abroad.

For more information and to apply, visit https://sagehillwriting.ca/writing-retreats/spring-colloquium/.    
There are also bursaries and scholarships available for Sage Hill’s programs, with details available here: https://www.sagehillwriting.ca/adults/scholarships-bursaries.

***

Go and Write! Retreats created by writers, for writers

Writing retreats offered by award-winning authors Dr. Gerard Collins and Jane Simpson, from New Brunswick, Canada. Participants include emerging and established writers of all genres.

For more information, visit www.goandwrite.ca or contact janiegoandwrite@gmail.com.

Retreat to Kingsbrae, Spring or Autumn—St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick

[https://goandwrite.ca/st-andrews-by-the-sea-new-brunswick-canada-spring-and-fall-2025/]

May 18-25: Space available              

Jun. 4-11: SOLD OUT          

Sep. 17-24: Space available

Micro-group retreats (only 5 rooms) in a seaside town on the East Coast of Canada. Private, ensuite bedroom in a gorgeous, historic mansion, your own private writing studio, and the award-winning Kingsbrae Garden at your doorstep.

Retreat to the New World: Newfoundland, August 2025

[https://goandwrite.ca/retreat-to-the-new-world-newfoundland-2025/]

We’re hosting our first ever retreat on the island of Newfoundland, Canada, Gerard’s birthplace! From August 7-23,2025, we’ll see the Tony-award winning musical Come From Away, spend a week in Trinity, attend a prestigious literary festival, fly north to the Viking Trail and L’Anse aux Meadows, and have a good stretch of time in the province’s vibrant capital city of St. John’s, writing all the way.

A Grand Writing Tour of Ireland: October 4-26, 2025

[https://goandwrite.ca/a-grand-writing-tour-of-ireland-autumn-2025/]

Join us from October 4-26, 2025, when we head to Ireland for 23 days—our grandest Old World writing retreat yet. A castle on the West Coast, The Old Ground Hotel in Ennis, a week (and a day!) on the Aran Island of Inis Mór, and several nights in Dublin: we’ve incorporated our favourite things about the Emerald Isle into this one magnificent retreat.

Mountains, Lochs, and Lore: Scotland 2025

[https://goandwrite.ca/mountains-lochs-and-lore-scotland-2025/]

Join us from November 23—December 5, 2025, as the ghosts of history and literature gather ’round and we nestle in near the storied shores of Loch Ness and tread the legendary cobbled streets, stairwells, and closes of Edinburgh. For 12 nights and 13 days, we’ll tour tragic battlegrounds, ancient castles, and prehistoric sites, journey through the forest of the Cairngorms and mountains of Glencoe, and spend time in a UNESCO City of Literature, writing as we go.

Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire: England 2025

[https://goandwrite.ca/chestnuts-roasting-on-an-open-fire-cotswolds-england-2025/]

Once again, we’re taking Go and Write! to England during the Christmas season on an adventure to awaken our creative souls—this time with an extra night and new adventures (chestnuts included!). Join us from December 9-17, 2025, for an intimate, nine-day writing retreat that focuses on writing in the peaceful Cotswolds: a perfect combination that will see us inspired by greatness, surrounded by luxury and ancient history, and reconnecting with our literary selves.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Atlantic Legacy Award

The Atlantic Book Awards Society seeks nominations for the 2025 Atlantic Legacy Award. This award honours individuals who have made a lasting contribution to the development of the literary arts in Atlantic Canada, people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and who have, through innovation, risk-taking, self-sacrifice, and/or creativity, provided opportunity or inspiration (or both) for those sharing Atlantic Canadian stories through writing and publishing.

The recipient might be from the field of publishing, writing, bookselling, or literary arts organizations, but people from all occupations, trades, and walks of life may be nominated—the most important consideration is that the person has made an extraordinary contribution to the advancement and encouragement of Atlantic books and writers. Particular consideration will be given to trailblazers, individuals whose work has had (or will have) a lasting impact. With this in mind, the award can be given posthumously.

If you would like to nominate someone, please send a brief biographical summary of the person, focusing on their contribution to the world of books and authors, and reasons why you feel they would be a worthy recipient of the Atlantic Legacy Award. Also include full contact information for your nominee.

Send submissions to atlanticbookawardsfestival@gmail.com with the subject heading "Legacy Award nomination" by April 15, 2025.

Submissions will be assessed by a committee made of industry professionals from the home province of each of the nominees. The recipient of the Atlantic Legacy Award will be announced at the Atlantic Book Awards gala at Halifax Central Library, Paul O’Regan Hall,  on June 5, 2025. 

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

The Fieldstone Review is now accepting submissions for its 2025 issue!

This year, we invite writers and artists to explore the theme of COLOUR in all its complexity. Colour is everywhere, and we want to see how you interpret and express it in your work. We welcome original, previously unpublished work by Canadian writers in a wide variety of genres, including poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction/reviews, and visual art. We are also excited to share that this year, we will be offering a $100 cash prize for the best submission. So don’t be shy – send us your best work! We can’t wait to see what colour means to you. 

Submission Deadline: April 30th, 2025

Reading Period: May 1st – June 30th, 2025

For more details, please visit The Fieldstone Review.

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AUTHORS WANTED!

Merlin Star Press is open for submissions from writers in New Brunswick who have a complete manuscript to offer. Check out our submission guidelines at Merlin Star Press:  https://www.merlinstarpress.com/ 

OFFRE D'EMPLOI - COORDINATION DES ÉLOIZES

Mise en contexte

L’Association acadienne des artistes professionnel.le.s du Nouveau-Brunswick (AAAPNB) est à la recherche d’une personne pour assurer la coordination des Éloizes. La prochaine édition se déroulera du 13 au 16 mai 2026 dans la municipalité régionale de Campbellton.

Depuis sa fondation en 1998, l’événement Éloizes propose une programmation diversifiée qui permet aux artistes professionnel.le.s de la grande Acadie de rayonner non seulement au sein d’une communauté hôtesse qui diffère d’une édition à l’autre, mais également dans toutes les provinces de l’Atlantique ainsi qu’à l’échelle nationale. Cette grande manifestation multidisciplinaire célèbre la création artistique en reconnaissant l’excellence, l’originalité et le dynamisme dans les disciplines suivantes : arts médiatiques, arts visuels, danse, arts du cirque, littérature, musique et théâtre. Les Éloizes soulignent aussi la contribution des individus, des entreprises, des événements et des organismes au développement et au rayonnement des arts en Acadie. La semaine d'activités se conclut en beauté et en prestige par la remise des 12 prix lors de la Soirée des Éloizes, diffusée sur le réseau de Radio-Canada et sur ICI ARTV.

Titre de l’emploi : Coordination des Éloizes

Sommaire du poste : Sous la supervision de la direction générale de l’AAAPNB et productrice des Éloizes, la Coordination des Éloizes est responsable de l’organisation et de la tenue de l’événement.

Statut de l'emploi : Poste régulier à temps plein

Date d'entrée en fonction : le 17 mars 2025

Horaire de travail : 5 jours/semaine, avec certaines périodes de travail les soirs et fins de semaines selon les événements.

Lieu : Moncton, N.-B., et déplacements ponctuels dans la province.

Échelle salariale : 52 000$ à 58 000$ annuel à 35h/semaine, selon la combinaison de formation et d’expérience.

Avantages sociaux et bénéfices : Régime d’assurance médicament et dentaire individuel ou familial, six semaines de congés payés (dont deux durant la période des Fêtes).

Pour soumettre votre candidature :

Veuillez faire parvenir votre curriculum vitae accompagné d’une lettre de motivation au plus tard vendredi le 14 février 2025 à 16h00 à l’adresse suivante :

Association acadienne des artistes professionnel.le.s du Nouveau-Brunswick

À l’attention de Carmen Gibbs, directrice générale au : 140, rue Botsford, bureau 29, Moncton, NB, E1C 4X5 ou par courriel électronique à: carmen.gibbs@aaapnb.ca

Nous remercions toutes les candidates et tous les candidats pour leur intérêt. Nous ne contacterons que les personnes sélectionnées pour une entrevue.

Note : Pour satisfaire aux conditions d’admissibilité, la candidate ou le candidat doit remplir un des critères suivants : être citoyenne ou citoyen canadien, avoir le statut de résidente ou de résident permanent OU posséder un permis de travail canadien valide. L’AAAPNB est un employeur ouvert à la diversité qui souscrit aux principes d’équité et d’égalité en matière d’emploi.

Liens utiles : www.aaapnb.ca  - www.leseloizes.ca - www.facebook.com/leseloizes

HELLO, MEMBERS AND FRIENDS. As I write this, we await a major storm, and another one expected for Sunday. Winter is a cozy and sleep-inducing time of year, but we are not sleeping at the Writers’ Federation–we are buzzing with activity.

The writing competition is underway, so submissions are flowing in and being disseminated to judges. Financial reports to our chief funders and to the government are due before the end of March, and applications for many grants are being submitted. Now is also the time to pursue corporate sponsorship for events like WordSpring, while we plan and organize other events for this year and for 2026.

WE NEED YOU! We would like to mark the fortieth anniversary of the WFNB (1985-2025), and the tenth anniversary of the NB Book Awards with a special retrospective– whether it be a videotaped interview with our few remaining founders, and/or a photographic display (digital or otherwise) to be viewed at WordSpring. We’re looking for an ad hoc committee who could take this project on and make it happen – if you’re interested, please drop a line to info@wfnb.ca

Meanwhile, here is a brief rundown of what’s upcoming. I hope you’ll be able to participate in something that inspires, informs, and encourages your writing this year.

1. The 2025 NB Writing Competition is underway – in fact, it’s half over! There are eight categories to choose from.

Do you have a teenager in your life who likes to write? Please tell them to submit a short story or select poems to the Sheree Fitch Prize for Teen Writers! It’s absolutely free for NB teens, ages 13 – 18.

2. The Fundamentals of Poetry, unit #3, with Matthew Gwathmey is February 16! There’s still room to register if you’d like to take part in his online session on ekphrasis as it pertains to music.

3. Braided Essays (nonfiction) with Sandra Phinney, three Saturdays in March. This nine-hour online course on this powerful form of creative non-fiction will help you create and refine a braided essay project for submission to publications.

4. WordSpring is coming, May 30 to June 1 at the Crowne Plaza, Fredericton. Mark your calendars and plan to attend! Look for the event page by the beginning of March. We are currently looking for event sponsors. If you or a business you know is interested in sponsoring WordSpring and/or the New Brunswick Book Awards, please contact us.

Ali Hassan, stand-up comedian and host of CBC Canada Reads, will be our guest speaker for the NB Book Awards. Musician/author (and WFNB member) Leo LaFleur will play for us at the NB Writing Competition Literary Soiree reception, and Catherine Kennedy will play at the NB Book Awards. Partridge Island Publishing will organize and host a Pitch the Publisher event on Saturday afternoon. Registration is required, and space will be limited. Sign up will be included on the event page.

As well, we have a wonderful lineup of workshop leaders:

Mark Leslie Lefebvre: Saturday morning, Mark comes to us from Ontario to offer “There's Never Been A Better Time To Be A Writer: An Author's Guide to Long-Term Writing & Publishing Success.” Mark will provide an overview of the publishing industry, both traditional and independent options, and he’ll be around for the weekend to answer your questions!

Brian Bartlett & Michael Pacey: Saturday afternoon, Brian and Michael will teach a poetry workshop together and present their new works.

Mike Thorn: Also Saturday afternoon, Mike will teach a workshop on Horror, a genre we haven’t visited since 2018. Spend a couple of hours with Mike and get your scare on.

Gerard Collins: Sunday morning, Gerard will lead a session on writing excellent dialogue (which I’ve taken before, and I can testify that it’s very good!)

Ryan Griffith: Also Sunday morning, Ryan will offer an Introduction to Playwriting! This is a new offering for our WordSpring events. If you’re interested in writing plays, this will be a great opportunity to get your feet wet.

ENJOY the rest of February, writers. Next time we connect, it’ll be close to Spring!

Cheers,

WordWorthy

“The beginning is not necessarily your opening lines. It might be halfway down the page. It might be three pages over, and you might have to take some of that and chop it off, or incorporate it, or work it in a different way, but you'll find the story’s beginning in the writing, and I think very often, at least for me, you also find the ending in the right place. If you just keep writing - if you’re listening to the voice of the story - all of a sudden, you'll just know.”  Valerie Sherrard

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS

Joanne Daggett (https://joannedaggett.com/)—Joanne writes memoir, poetry and spiritual pieces from her home in Quispamsis, NB. Welcome Joanne!

Nancy Viva Davis Halifax—Nancy Viva writes poetry, and lives in Fredericton, NB, having been published in a variety of publications. Welcome, Nancy Viva!

Hélène Devarennes (https://www.helenedevarennes.ca/) lives in Shediac and has written many children’s books and magazines with Wabanaki peoples. Along with Indigenous literature, Hélène writes in a variety of genres: Blogging, Children’s, Creative non-fiction, Essays, Memoir, Poetry, Scriptwriting, Songwriting, Freelance writing, and Short stories. Bienvenue, Hélène!

Marilyn Driscoll is the editor of The Shamrock Leaf newsmagazine (https://newirelandnb.ca/resources/the-shamrock-leaf), and she writes a variety of genres from her home in Oromocto: Biography, Creative non-fiction, Editing, Essays, Journalism, Memoir, Non-Fiction. Welcome, Marilyn!

Anja Hamilton joins us this month and writes fantasy, romance and short stories. Welcome, Anja!

Colleen-Rose Ireland is a 30-year educator, union leader, and short story writer, whose published work focuses on care giving.  Preferred genres: Creative non-fiction, Essays, Fiction, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Short stories. Welcome, Colleen-Rose!

Danielle Sagang is a poet from Moncton, who has contributed to the anthology Unicité et diversité. Anthologie la voix des dix voix (novembre 2024, Les Éditions du net). Bienvenue, Danielle!

Margot Stafford joins us this month from Oak Point. Welcome, Margot!

Christie Walker (theludicreader.com) joins from Saint John and writes in the following genres: Blogging, Creative non-fiction, Essays, Fiction, Journalism, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Young Adult, Short stories

Julia Wright (https://www.instagram.com/itsburningoff/) is a writer, zinemaker, photojournalist, filmmaker and arts writer based in Saint John, N.B. Her writing, videos, and photos have been featured in local and international publications including VICE, Billie: Visual Culture Atlantic, the Telegraph-Journal, CBC New Brunswick, and CBC News. Julia is interested in the genres of Creative non-fiction, Editing, Essays, Fiction, Horror, Journalism, Non-Fiction, Photography, Scriptwriting, Flash/Micro fiction, Short stories. Welcome, Julia!

Inkspot February 2025 - Part 2

Happy New Year, Members and Friends. Here's what's upcoming:

The NB Writing Competition is now open! Choose from eight categories, and pay for your submission through our online store. Send your cover letter and document to us at info@wfnb.ca. The judges eagerly await your submissions.

Winter retreat is this coming weekend! We’re all looking forward to a couple of days of uninterrupted writing time, and the good conversations that occur over meals.

Matthew Gwathmey’s third installment of the Fundamentals of Poetry, on ekphrasis as it applies to music will be held online in February – there’s still space, so you can sign up now.

Sandra Phinney’s three session nonfiction course called Braiding our Truths is also available for signup. Three sessions of three hours each happening in March. Limit of 12 people, but there’s still plenty of room to sign up.

Submissions to the NB Book Awards are off to the judges – we will announce the shortlist in April. Good luck to all who’ve participated in the program. (And well done for publishing a book in 2024! We wish all participants massive success.) We are currently seeking sponsors for the live NB Book Award presentation on May 31 at the Crowne Plaza in Fredericton. Let us know at info@wfnb.ca if you or someone you know may be interested in sponsorship of this worthy event.

WordWorthy 

"It's very unusual for people generally to just pick up a book of poetry to read. I belong to a book club here in my area, and I periodically try pitching a book of poetry, and they  never go for it. They're all well read, intelligent women, but they're just not into it. But...when times get emotionally intense - funerals, weddings, the angst of adolescence - the most surprising people will turn to poetry. I think that's because one of the main functions of poetry is to take overwhelming, private emotions and turns it into something that makes sense and can be communicated." Kathy Mac, Better Writing Through Poetry, January 12, 2025

Until February,

Welcome, New Members

Carolyn Avery joins us from Quispamsis where she writes children’s, poetry, spiritual, and short stories. Welcome, Carolyn!

Lee Anne Gibson writes biography, children’s, fiction, historical fiction, memoir, young adult, nonfiction and mystery from her home in Shediac. Welcome, Lee Anne!

Eric McCumber lives in Long Reach, where he enjoys writing fiction and historical fiction. Welcome, Eric!

Flora Price writes fiction, poetry and short stories from her home in Sussex. Welcome, Flora!

Lorena Taraschi writes essays, memoir and poetry from her home in Shediac. Welcome, Lorena!

Michael Turner joins us from Amherst Nova Scotia. Welcome, Michael!

MEMBER NEWS

Brent Mason is happy to announce the publication of his first novel, Midway, with Galleon Books on December 10. He will be doing events in January around the province, combining readings from the book with songs from his about to be released 12th album, Get in Line. On January 18, there will be a two pm matinee at O'Leary’s Pub in Saint John, with Julia Wright hosting a Q and A, as well as a matinee, as part of Shivering Songs Festival at the Wilser's Room with Rob Pinnock , and then on February 1 in St. Andrews as part of the Winter Warmer Festival, again with Julia Wright.

***

You might have been used to reading Andrew MacLean’s Backyard History Story of the Week on his Facebook page, but if you’d rather receive it directly to your inbox, he invites you to sign up on his website, backyardhistory.ca.

Members may send announcements regarding events and all other exploits to info@wfnb.ca by the tenth of each month for publication on the 13th.

EVENTS

WRITERS’ OPEN MIC Sunday, January 19

3:00 - 4:00 pm, Bill Johnstone Memorial Park Activity Centre, 70 Main Street, Sackville, NB

The Writers’ Open Mic is a free, monthly event for writers of all ages and genres. Come out and read your poems, short stories, comics, novels, essays, twitter posts, stand-up comedy, etc. Or just come to listen. All are welcome.

A projector will be set up for those with comics or other images or videos they want to share. Files can be brought on a USB or emailed in advance. Accessibility concerns, general questions, and image or video files can be directed to laurawatsonartwork@gmail.com.

***

The Fiddlehead is turning 80! We invite you to join us during FROSTival on Saturday, February 8th at the Fredericton Public Library for the opening of our exhibit 80 Years of Art at The Fiddlehead which will feature a retrospective of the artwork associated with the magazine over the years. During the exhibition opening, we will also launch our Winter 2025 issue with readings from contributors: celebrating the next installment of The Fiddlehead. 

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BWf5ghaTa/

RESIDENCIES

I-Park (Connecticut, USA) is Now Accepting Applications from Writers for its 2025 Artists-in-Residence Program

Application Deadline: January 20, 2025

I-Park is soliciting applications for its fully funded General Residency Program. These onsite, multidisciplinary residencies are open to artists and designers working in the visual arts, creative writing, music composition, moving image, architecture, interdisciplinary practice and landscape design. The residency season runs from May 20 – November 24, 2025. All sessions are 4-weeks in duration except for the May session – 2-weeks.

I-Park residencies are open to writers in all genres, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting, literary criticism and mixed media. 

Located within an expansive nature preserve in rural East Haddam, Connecticut (U.S.), I-Park provides residents with a quiet, retreat-type setting, private living quarters in a renovated 1840s farmhouse, a private studio, meals program, fully equipped workshop and modest library – as well as creative access to the grounds which include miles of art/nature trails. Residencies are self-directed and non-judgmental. You decide what you’re working on and when. 

Details and application forms are available at i-park.org. Applications are due January 20, 2025 and carry a $35 fee to help defray the cost of the selection panels. This year, I-Park will also be offering $500 travel grants to five non-North American artists. 

For further information, contact info@i-park.org or 860-873-2468.

CALLS FOR SUBMISSION

Formac is currently open to submissions! Check out submission guidelines here: https://formac.ca/submission-guidelines/

 ***

Partridge Island Publishing's Strangers in the Fog is still accepting submissions until January 31. The annual anthology is only open to Atlantic Canadian authors.Each author can submit two entries, either poetry or prose.Each entry can be a maximum of 3,000 words. All genres are accepted, but the submission must include the theme of a stranger. However you interpret the word:

• A new person, a stranger
• Someone out of this world
• A stranger place
• A stranger day
• The stranger in the mirror

Each anthology saves space for stories from new, never-been-published authors, so please include that information in the query letter. Questions and submissions can be sent to amanda@partridgeislandpublishing.ca.

***

Milkbag magazine announces the launch of its digital publication, with hopes of producing printed volumes once the organization establishes funding. They’ve extended their submission call to January 31in order to give people time - post holidays - to submit. Milkbag will publish poetry, short fiction, art, and reviews quarterly. As a new publication, they are especially eager to provide a platform for emerging writers and artists.  Visit www.milkbagmagazine.com for more information.

***

Sunspot Lit  introduces their Geminga Contest 2025:

Sunspot Lit’s Geminga contest honors the power of micro poetry, prose, and art. Opens January 1, closes January 31. Entry fee: $5. Prize: $100 cash and publication. See guidelines and entry form here: https://sunspotlit.submittable.com/submit/316621/geminga-2025-100-for-tiny-fiction-cnf-poetry-graphic-novel-art

***

Sequestrum launches into 2025 with two themes: Slipstream and Love! They’re after your most ambitious, imaginative writing. Bend fantasy, science fiction, magical realism, and literary writing together. Leave them with a sense of heartache and yearning. Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or some combination thereof. Sequestrum is eager to read your best

Themes: Love, Slipstream & Magical Realism         

Slipstream submission details: https://www.sequestrum.org/themed-submissions-slipstream.

WRITING GROUPS

New Member Carolyn Avery’s writing group, The Word Weavers, meet weekly on Mondays @ 1pm, at a coffee shop in Quispamsis. They read what they’ve written on a word prompt, from the previous week, and then do a writing exercise and share from that. 

They are open to new members! You can contact Carolyn through email: carolyn_avery@hotmail.com

Hello, Members and Friends.

Here it is, our last Inkspot of the year. Seems like I say it every year (maybe it’s my age?), but it feels like the months all melted away and *snap! it’s Christmas again. I published this year, so it was meaningful for me. I hope you were able to take part in some of our wonderful events this year. We connected with other writers and enjoyed professional development workshops and social activities. I hope there was something to inspire you and inform your writing this year.

As the Holiday season approaches, I’m happy to say that our list of events on wfnb.ca for the winter is full, and I hope you’ll take the time to participate in something. I’ll list them out here, for you:

1. Our writers' retreat at Villa Madonna is January 17-19. We have a few signed up, but we still need several more signups to reach the minimum 15 participants. This is a great opportunity to focus and connect with other writers, so we hope to see you there!

2. Our first online Poetry fundamentals workshop led by Roger Moore took place yesterday, December 12, and it was a wonderful dialogue to kick off our sessions. Participants will receive the recording soon to review, but if you missed registering for this event, you can still review the recording for a nominal fee. Contact info@wfnb.ca for more details.

Discussion Two on poetry fundamentals is led by Kathy Mac, who follows up with Better Writing Through Poetry, on January 12. Limit of 15 - as of this writing, only 4 spaces left!

Discussion Three on poetry fundamentals is led by Matthew Gwathmey  on February 16 with Reacting to Music, an Ekphrasis Exercise. Also a limit of 15.

3. Also, Sandra Phinney will lead a three-session online workshop in March 2025 called Braiding our Truths, focusing on creating nonfiction essays with a technique known as "Braiding." This nine-hour online course will be split into three successive Saturdays from one to four pm, on March 15, 22, and 29. Sandra will also focus the last hour of the final session teaching you where to find a market for the essays you've been working on during this course. Limit of 12.

4. Are you preparing for The New Brunswick Writing Competition, which begins January 1 and runs until March 31? If you are a NB resident, (or a WFNB member) you can submit to the competition in eight separate categories: short fiction, novel, nonfiction, single poetry and manuscript, writing for young people, writing by teens, and screenplay. For new writers, this is a great way to practice the process of submission to publications, and for more experienced writers who might be experimenting with new forms. Over the years, we’ve awarded thousands of dollars in cash prizes to winners and many winners have gone on to publish their works.

Again this year, submission is a two-step process: first, you pay for your submission through our online store on wfnb.ca (the window opens January 1), and second, please email your manuscript to info@wfnb.ca.

Please note: Some people have asked why we stopped using Submittable for this competition. We were required to pay quite a hefty annual fee, even though we only used the website three months of the year, and the subscription ate up most of our modest profit. In the end, Submittable simply wasn’t worth the cost to our competition, especially since we already had a viable way to process payments through our own website.

5. Plans are underway for WordSpring, including the tenth annual New Brunswick Book Awards. All our events will take place at the Crowne Plaza Fredericton, May 30 to June 1. This year, we’ll have workshops, readings and an open mic as usual, but we also hope to organize a Pitch the Publisher event as well. Mark your calendars, and look for the event page early in the New Year, once all the details are settled.

And finally, a note about giving.

The WFNB always welcome donations on our website, including legacy giving, as well as the purchase of lifetime memberships. 

We cannot issue tax receipts at this present time, but the WFNB is in the process of applying for charitable status. Once submitted, the application can take six months or more to adjudicate, and we hope for the best.

Though the financial reporting requirements are quite a bit more complicated with a charitable designation than with our current status as a nonprofit incorporation, on balance we feel that a charitable number would give us access to foundations and other pools of giving that aren’t currently accessible.

To those preparing for Christmas, Hanukkah, and other winter celebrations, Happy Holidays! The year 2025 represents the WFNB's 40th anniversary, so we're looking forward to celebrating how far our organization has come, and the many fine writers that have grown through and contributed to our little family over the years.

WordWorthy: Rewriting is as important as writing itself. But rewriting has dangers. When we put down our first inspiration, that flow comes out from us and we think ‘isn’t that great?’ but we return to it and say, ‘no, I don’t like that, or that, or that…change everything!’ But Juan Ramón Jiménez, Nobel prize winner for Poetry in 1956, had a phrase: No la toques más. Así es la rosa—Don't touch it anymore. Roses are like that. When your poem is exactly the place you want it, and then you think it would be better if you did something else—No la toques más. Take care to retain your first inspiration, and don't lose it by over-polishing. Keep your first version. You'll always be able to go back to it."

Roger Moore, the Fundamentals of Poetry, unit 1. December 12, 2024

Until 2025,

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Charlene Coburn (pen name, Elwyn Frances Sparrow): Charlene is a born and raised New Brunswicker, living in Fredericton. Her genres of interest include creative nonfiction, essays, memoir, poetry and short story. Welcome, Charlene!

Ellen Christie: From her home in Grande Digue, Ellen writes in variety of genres: Blogging, Creative non-fiction, Essays, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Photography, Copywriting. Welcome, Ellen!

Adair Howe lives in Saint John and writes fantasy, poetry, science fiction, copywriting and travel. Welcome Adair!

Jan Fancy Hull ( janfancyhull.com) lives in rural Nova Scotia, near Lunenburg. She writes creative nonfiction, poetry, short stories, cozy mysteries and other forms of fiction. Welcome, Jan!

Sharon McCutcheon is a retired family doctor who lives in Sussex. She is interested in the genres of creative nonfiction, essays, memoir and poetry. Welcome, Sharon!

Teri McMackin’s work has been published in magazines, newspapers, local publicaitons, online and blogs. A ghostwriter of books and seasoned copywriter, Teri writes from her home in Petitcodiac in a full range of Biography, Blogging, Corporate writing, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Copywriting, Website copy, Freelance writing, Ghostwriting. Welcome, Teri!

Tara Pyfrom (tarapyfrom.com) was born and raised in the Bahamas and now lives in Quispamsis. She writes essays, memoir, nonfiction, poetry and is a freelance writer, her work having appeared in numerous publications. Welcome, Tara!

Aimee C. Trafton (aimeectraftonbooks.com) Born and raised in Fredericton, Aimee’s personal essays and stories have appeared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, Autism Parenting Magazine, Medium, and her personal blog Life Lessons for My Daughter (lifelessons4daughter.com). While children's literature remains her first love, she also writes YA/adult non-fiction, poetry, personal essays, short stories, and has recently designed some notebooks and sketchbooks available on Amazon. Welcome, Aimee!

MEMBER NEWS

On November 22, theatre students from the Langley Fine Arts School, in Langley BC, performed "Found Drowned"  at a local theatre festival. Their script was inspired by WFNB member Laurie Glenn Norris' 2019 novel of the same name. Congratulations, Laurie!

***

Michael Simon is excited to announce the release of his science fiction series, Extinction (Podium Entertainment) and First Command (Aethon Books) in 2025.  Extinction is a military SF thriller, in which a colony on one of Jupiter’s moons will either be the last bastion of human civilization . . .or ground zero for its extinction.

In First Command, an alien attack leaves Ensign Cole Jackson stranded in space. He must survive, rebuild, and rejoin the war.  

https://www.michaelsimon.live/novels 

Congratulations, Michael!

WRITING GROUPS

WFNB Member Denise McClure tells us that the writing group EXHALE: Grand Falls has been terminated. However, if there are writers in the Grand Falls area interested in connecting with other writers, please contact her at: 75deemac@gmail.com, or phone number: 506-473-6125.

COMPETITIONS AND CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Partridge Island Publishing call for Submissions - Strangers in the Fog

Details: The annual anthology is only open to Atlantic Canadian authors. Each author can submit two entries, either poetry or prose. Each entry can be a maximum of 3,000 words. All genres are accepted, but the submission must include the theme of "a stranger," however you interpret the word. Each anthology saves space for stories from new, never-been-published authors!

Deadline: January 31, 2025. Direct submissions and any questions to: amanda@partridgeislandpublishing.ca.

Amanda also tells us that plans for their new location for The Write Cup, a bookstore/cafe in Market Square, Saint John, are shaping up nicely. They anticipate opening their doors in January 2025, and will soon be reaching out to new authors to fill their shelves. Congratulations on your success and growth, Partridge Island Publishing!

The sixteenth King’s Shorts Festival of Ten Minute Plays will be hosted by King’s Theatre in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, Canada on June 20, 21 and 22, 2025.  For electronic submission(s): https://www.kingstheatre.ca/about/kings-shorts-info/

$15 submission fee per script using the online “Registration” link or by calling the Box Office at 902-532-7704 -  Due to the Canada Post strike, please submit electronically. Submission deadline: January 13, 2025

***

https://shortstoryawards.com/ The Next Generation Short Story Awards, currently in its second year, is a not-for-profit international awards program for authors of short stories. The Short Story Awards is now accepting entries, i.e. short stories and poems in English (5000 words or less) for the 2025 awards program in 30+ categories. The entry deadline for the 2025 year is Thursday, February 27, 2025. Winners are given cash prizes, gold medals, complimentary digital promotional stickers, social media coverage, literary exposure with their stories published in an Anthology of Winners, and a complimentary copy of the Anthology of Winners. The Short Story Awards is brought to you by the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, an international book awards program for independent and self-published authors. 

***

Hamilton’s Readers and Writers Festival (gritLIT) is hosting this year's Short Story Writing Contest, open to submissions of original fiction or creative non-fiction (up to 500 words) from across the country. Interpret this year’s theme—CONNECTION—creatively to explore what connection means to you! This year introduces a new staged writing challenge, where successful longlisted entries will be invited to expand their stories in three stages. 

Deadline: January 15, 2025

- Entry Fee: $15

Prizes: First Place: $500, Two Honourable Mentions: $150 each

Additional Rewards: All winners will be invited to read at gritLIT 2025 in April. Winning stories will be published on the gritLIT website. Please read the submission rules carefully, especially the Writing Stages section.

***

The National Media Awards Foundation is excited to announce they are now accepting submissions for the 48th annual National Magazine Awards! The 2025 National Magazine Awards feature 28 categories, with two special awards, and eight additional categories that are part of a cross-programming initiative with the Digital Publishing Awards.

Submissions are open to Canadian print and digital magazines and to Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents (landed immigrants) whose work has appeared in them during the 2024 calendar year.

Early Bird Deadline: January 10, 2025

Final Submission Deadline: January 17, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. EST

How to Submit

1. Register online at https://submissions.mediafoundation.ca/login

2. Review the Rules to ensure eligibility

3. Review the Categories and Submission Requirements, and complete the submission form(s)

4. Pay the required entry fees

https://submissions.mediafoundation.ca/en/login

Optional hard copies must be received by January 25, 2025, even with the ongoing Canada Post strike. We strongly recommend submitting them earlier and using a courier service to ensure timely delivery.

***

International Songwriting Contests 

1. The Womens Freedom Song Contest  Dec. 1, 2024 - March 1, 2025

Seeking Female Anthems, Music videos and Lyric/Poems that deal with issues of concern to women (Open to all genders). Prizes from Broadjam, Indiebible, AirPlay Direct, The Music Registry, Book “101 Tips and Tricks of Successful Songwriting,” Guitar Center Gift Certificates & a Photo shoot with Mark Maryanovich. Winners will be announced on March 8, International Women’s Day. 

2. The International Songwriters Day Song Contest.   

Dates: Runs from Dec.1 to April 2, 2025. Winners announced: April 9, International Songwriters Day. Seeking “Inspirational” songs, music videos and lyrics/poems.

Prizes from Broadjam, Indiebible, AirPlay Direct, The Music Registry, Book “101 Tips and Tricks of Successful Songwriting,” Guitar Center Gift Certificates & a Photo shoot with Mark Maryanovich Entry is through the FilmFreeway platform or from the site:

Contests are run by CEO Diana Williamson, who has written 2 x #3 Billboard Hot Club Chart Songs, authored the book "101 Tips and Tricks of Successful Songwriting," and is Head of Themusiclibrary.org that places music in Film & TV.

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Established in 2023 by Tim Saunders Publications, The Paul Cave Prize for Literature is an excellent platform for international writers and poets in the English language to get their work read by a professional editor and published in a book. Winners receive feedback, cash prizes and copies of the book featuring their work.

They are looking for all forms of poetry: haiku, free verse, sonnet, acrostic, villanelle, ballad, limerick, ode, elegy, flash fiction, short stories and novellas in any genre except erotic. Work must be new and unpublished. International submissions welcome. The rights to any works published remain with the author. The publisher reserves the right to edit submissions. Opens March 30, 2025 and closes September 30. Winners announced November 30, 2025.

***

TWUC Invites Submissions for Short Prose Competition for Emerging Writers

The Writers’ Union of Canada invites submissions to its 32nd annual Short Prose Competition for Emerging Writers. Unpublished works of fiction and nonfiction up to 2,500 words in English are eligible, and writers may submit multiple entries. A $2,500 prize will be awarded to the winner, and the entries of the winner and eleven finalists will be submitted to three Canadian magazines for consideration. The deadline for entries is February 17, 2025.

RESIDENCY APPLICATIONS

Trevor Corkum (one of our former writing competition judges!) just opened up The Hideout residency applications for 2025. If you (or someone you know) might be hoping to get away to PEI for time to write or create this year, be in touch. Applications for the Susan Buchanan Hideout scholarship (for Maritime-based writers and creatives) are also now open.

The Hideout residency community has grown substantially since the residency program was created in 2020, and has welcomed novelists, poets, memoirists, dancers, academics, visual artists, playwrights, screenwriters, psychotherapists, wellness practitioners and even circus artists (!!) from across Canada, the United States, and around the globe. 

FIDDLEHEAD RETROSPECTIVE - SPECIAL INVITATION

The Fiddlehead is turning 80! We invite you to join us during FROSTival on Saturday, February 8th at the Fredericton Public Library for the opening of our exhibit 80 Years of Art at The Fiddlehead which will feature a retrospective of the artwork associated with the magazine over the years. During the exhibition opening, we will also launch our Winter 2025 issue with readings from contributors: celebrating the next installment of The Fiddlehead. 

COMMEMORATIVE EDITION 

Atlantic Books Today (ABT), the flagship magazine showcasing the best of Atlantic Canadian literature, proudly announces the release of its 100th issue—a celebration of the region’s vibrant publishing heritage, diverse literary voices, and cultural contributions. Since its inception, ABT has been dedicated to promoting and amplifying Atlantic Canadian authors, publishers, and stories that matter.

This commemorative issue features a curated selection of 100 new books, representing the diverse and powerful storytelling that has shaped the literary landscape of Atlantic Canada. Hear from award-winning authors such as Sharon Bala, Carol Bruneau, Lisa Moore, and Fawn Parker, to emerging talents and voices that capture the unique spirit of the region. This milestone edition is a true tribute to Atlantic literature’s enduring influence.

The 100th issue of Atlantic Books Today is available both in print and online at www.atlanticbooks.ca. Join them as they celebrate this remarkable achievement and continue to champion the literary treasures of Atlantic Canada.

That's it for December! See you in 2025.

Hello, Members and Friends:

The first snow of November fell last night, and this morning, it's still on the ground – do you have your winter tires on yet? Me neither.

Thank you to those who attended WordsFall in Sussex in October, and kindly filled out a survey form. We were a cozy crew this year, but we still enjoyed some good quality workshops, music, and dynamic readings.

As the Christmas season and other holidays approach, you might not be thinking about signing up for WFNB events, but they’re coming soon. Here are some quick reminders:

1. Please sign up soon for the Winter Retreat, January 17-19 – we need a minimum of 15 participants to make it a go. (I’m really looking forward to it this time round!)

2.  As well, the first of three online workshops on the fundamentals of poetry will be led by Roger Moore, on December 12 from 7 to 9 pm. Our two other leaders will be announced soon.

3. As well, our Frances Peck three-session bundle is available to us for a limited time. If you missed these sessions, now is your chance to review the videos and the materials for a very low price.

4. There are only a couple of weeks left for NB residents to submit your books to the NB Book Awards. Submit a form and mail two books to us at 52 Amity Street, Moncton, NB E1G 0S3, postmarked by December 1. So far, we only have ONE submission to the Alice Kitts Award for Excellence in Picture Book Writing. If we do not receive enough to adjudicate this year, this year’s submissions will be added to next year’s group.

5. Get ready to submit to the 2025 NB Writing Competition! It begins January 1 and runs through March 31, in eight categories. Open to all NB residents, and to WFNB members, no matter where they live. Susan White and I are finalizing the judges for this year, and we’ll announce those names soon.

6. Also, please note if your membership has lapsed, you might not notice at first, since you will continue to receive Inkspot (unless you unsubscribe), but if you want to make announcements about your book launches, etc. in the newsletter and on social media, they will no longer be free. Event registration fees for non-members are also higher. We would love to have you back! Contact us at info@wfnb.ca to let us know how we could entice you.

November WordWorthy:

“It would be fair enough to ask, I suppose, if Paul Sheldon in Misery is me. Certainly parts of him are…but I think you will find that, if you continue to write fiction, every character you create is partly you. When you ask yourself what a certain character will do given a certain set of circumstances, you’re making the decision based on what you yourself would (or in the case of a bad guy, wouldn’t) do. Added to these versions of yourself are the character traits, both lovely and unlovely, which you observe in others (a guy who picks his nose when he thinks no one is looking, for instance). There is also a wonderful third element: pure blue sky imagination. – Stephen King, On Writing:  A Memoir of the Craft (2000, Scribner)

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS

Joseph Howse (https://nummist.com/stories) writes fiction and poetry, as well as technical books on computer programming and image analysis from his home in the fishing village of Terence Bay, NS. There, he chats with his cats and nurtures an orchard of hardy fruit trees. Joseph is interested in Fiction, Historical Fiction, Non-Fiction, Photography, Poetry, Technical, Flash/Micro fiction, Short stories. Welcome, Joseph!

Tammy Morgan is a returning member who writes fiction from her home in Sackville, NB. Welcome, Tammy!

MEMBER NEWS

Book Launch on the Miramichi

Chuck Bowie will hold a Reading and Signing of his latest Thriller in the Donovan: Thief4Hire series. Lost in London is the sixth book in the series.

Where: Mill Cove Coffee, 144 Newcastle Blvd, Miramichi

When: Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00PM.

***

Jerry Iwanus, recently published his first book, TAXING NEW BRUNSWICK: An Insider's Guide to Successfully Challenging Your NB Property Assessment (Platypus Publishing).

Written to help fellow New Brunswickers navigate this complex and often-maddening topic (and perhaps making readers chuckle a bit on the meantime), he hopes that it contributes to a conversation about property tax reform in his beloved adopted province. It’s available on Amazon; he writes on this and other topics at The Prairie Maritimer.

***

Andrew MacLean, the writer of the Backyard History column which appears weekly in 20 newspapers across the Maritimes, published his third book Rebellious Women In The Maritimes. This anthology uncovers the untold stories of seventeen courageous women who dared to stand up, speak out, and break free from the constraints of their times. Order at backyardhistory.ca - Thanks very much and keep up the good work!

http://backyardhistory.ca

***

Barb Parker’s book launch of her new book, Don’t Leave Me, was a great success. Barb thanks everyone for the comments and reviews, and she is so thankful for your support. Barb will be holding book presentations November 16 at the Grand Manan Community Market, November 17 at Immanuel Family Church, Grand Manan, November 22 at the McAdam Public Library, November 26 Heritage Center in Marysville NB, December 5 at the Christmas Craft & Bake Sale McKnight Street, Fredericton, NB. Barb is mailing copies of her book to those who request in Canada. Her first two books are available at NB libraries, and she will also be donating a copy of her new book to NBPLS next week.

***

Congratulations to Valerie Sherrard, whose 34th (!) book, An Unbalanced Force, is released this month! Instead of asking friends to attend a launch in person or online, I'm inviting you to read a few pages of the opening chapter. Just click this link and then select "excerpt."

 https://www.dcbyoungreaders.com/an-unbalanced-force

***

Em Whelly is offering developmental editing services. She has some spots open in November and December. More info: ewhelly@outlook.ca or call 506-333-6066

***

Susan White would like to announce the release of her 14th novel with Acorn Press entitled Such a Winter’s Day. Susan was also one of ten contributing authors with short stories in The ANNEthology which was an exciting Acorn Press Spring release. The ANNEthology is getting lots of attention across the country. On November 28, WFNB member and NB Book Nonfiction Award winner Martha Vowles will interview Susan for the online launch of Such a Winter’s Day.

Congratulations to all our members on their launches, readings and other offerings.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Carol Off Book Tour comes to Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton, November 18-20

The Writers’ Federation of New Brunswick is pleased to present Carol Off in conversation, as she kicks off her book launch tour in New Brunswick with a stop in Moncton on November 18.Carol is promoting her new book, At a Loss for Words, Conversation in an Age of Rage. This event is free and open to the public.

The event will take place at 6 pm at the Alma City Club, 114 Alma Street, Moncton.  Carol will be pleased to sign copies of her book, and Tidewater books of Sackville will be on hand to sell copies.

Also on hand will be Jonna Brewer, host of CBC Moncton’s information morning, to host the Q & A period following Carol’s reading.

Carol will also visit Fredericton on November 19, 7:30 pm at Tilley Hall, UNB, and Saint John on November 20 at 7 pm in the Ganong Hall Lecture Theatre at UNB Saint John campus.

This reading is sponsored in memory of Susan Kathleen Leydon, longtime supporter of the Lorenzo Reading Series, and the Writers’ Federation of New Brunswick.

SUMMER AUTHOR SERIES BOOKINGS!

Vickery House Books, at 83 Spring Street in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, is gathering its slate of authors who would like to participate in their third annual Summer Author Series for the 2025 season, which will be held mid-May to mid-August.  Vickery House holds its events, rain or shine, in a large tent set up beside their bookstore. Meet and greet local cottagers and tourists, give a reading, and foster great discussions about your books. Connect with other writers and diverse audiences. Contact David Christie at summerauthorseries@gmail.com, or vickeryhouse.ns@gmail.com

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Canada Council invites New Brunswick artists (including writers) to submit individual grant applications for their Explore and Create program. To set up your individual profile and learn more about what programs are on offer, check out the website here: https://apply.canadacouncil.ca/Default2.aspx Specific questions about Explore and Create? Contact a program officer, like Megan Mabey (megan.mabey@canadacouncil.ca)

OPEN MIC EVENT
The next Writers’ Open Mic in Sackville takes place Sunday, November 17, from 3:00 - 4:00 pm at Bill Johnstone Memorial Park Activity Centre, 70 Main Street, Sackville, NB.

The Writers’ Open Mic is a free, monthly event for writers of all ages and genres. Come out and read your poems, short stories, comics, novels, essays, twitter posts, stand-up comedy, etc. Or just come to listen. All are welcome.

A projector will be set up for those with comics or other images or videos they want to share. Files can be brought on a USB or emailed in advance. Accessibility concerns, general questions, and image or video files can be directed to laurawatsonartwork@gmail.com.

CONTESTS AND OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS

The sixteenth King’s Shorts Festival of Ten Minute Plays will be hosted by King’s Theatre in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, Canada on June 20, 21 and 22, 2025. The Festival is open to all writers and playwrights, worldwide, even if you have never written a play before. Plays should not exceed 10 minutes (total stage time). https://www.kingstheatre.ca/about/kings-shorts-info/ 

$15 submission fee per script using the online “Registration” link or by calling the Box Office at 902-532-7704.

Entries for the Festival may also be sent to the address below, and be postmarked no later than January 13, 2025, with a non-refundable $15 entry fee per script: King's Shorts Committee, P.O. Box 161, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, B0S 1A0, Canada. For further information contact Verilea Ellis at 902-245-2309 or email verilea@yahoo.ca

The Bournemouth Writing Prize (UK) 2025.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival is joining forces with Arts University Bournemouth and Dithering Chaps (a Dorset-based indie publisher) to offer their 2025 competition for poems (up to thirty lines) and short stories (up to 3,000 words).

The overall winner will receive a cash prize of £500 (GBP), a one-hour online consultation with the competition judges and, for those able to attend the festival, the chance to perform their work with a live band. All short-listed writers will receive a copy of the winners’ anthology.

This year, there is no theme, so we invite you so send us your most competition-worthy poems and stories. The entry fee is £10 (GBP) for which you can send up to three poems or one short story per entry.

Many entries came from Canada and the US last year (for their 'Lines in the Sand' competition) and twelve of the eighty longlisted entries came from here.

For more information, please visit the competition website at:

 https://thebournemouthjournal.com/bournemouth-writing-prize/

STOP PRESS: for poets who have a longer collection of poems (30-50 pages) in their locker, Dithering Chaps would love to read your work. Our submissions window is open and we are looking for poets to add to our 2025 publication listing. See our website or reply to this email for more details. Again, please share this information with members of your writing groups and other interested parties.

***

The Manitoba Writers’ Guild is thrilled to announce the opening of their third annual David Williamson National Short Story Competition (otherwise known as “The Dave”), which opens for entries on December 1, 2024.

With $2000 in prizes (1^st prize $1000; 2^nd Prize $600; 3^rd Prize $400) + guaranteed publication for the winners and honourable mentions in Beyond Boundaries III (2025), this Best Writing Contest acclaimed by Reedsy (2023) is not one to miss.

Simultaneous submissions accepted!  Questions? Contact: MWGPresident2023@gmail.com.

The contest portal will open on their website on December 1, 2024 https://mbwriters.ca

***

Don’t forget about The Eighth Annual Pottersfield Prize for Creative Nonfiction!

For the eighth annual prize, Pottersfield Press is again looking for submissions from writers who can provide a manuscript of 30,000 to 150,000 words in any of the following categories: history, memoir, autobiography, biography, literary journalism, political or social commentary, travel writing or virtually any existing or new category that uses the nonfiction medium to tell a story or put forward an idea.

The First Prize winner will receive a contract for the publication of the winning book along with a $1000 advance on 10% royalty for all sales. The Second Prize winner will also see the publication of the book and a $800 advance on 10% royalties.

Deadline is April 30, 2025, but early submissions are encouraged.

Manuscripts can be submitted electronically as a double-spaced basic Word document to:

pottersfieldcreative@gmail.com

including a title page with name, address and email contact.

Entry fee is $25 (includes HST) and can be paid by Interac Transfer (also to pottersfieldcreative@gmail.com), PayPal or by cheque made out to Pottersfield Press mailed to 248 Leslie Road,  East Lawrencetown, NS  B2Z 1T4 Canada after the manuscript has been submitted by email. www.pottersfieldpress.com

Winners will be announced on June 30, 2025.

The winners of the Seventh Annual Pottersfield Prize for Creative Nonfiction are co-authors James MacDuff and Mirriam Mweemba in first place for The Illogical Adventure and Matthew R. Anderson in second place for Someone Else’s Saint.

Both books will be published by Pottersfield Press in 2025.

***

The Rialto Nature & Place Poetry Competition

Open to international submissions, as long as you are over 18 and your poem is written in English. Rules and submission guidelines here:

https://www.therialto.co.uk/pages/nature-poetry-competition/

The Rialto working in association with the RSPB, BirdLife International, Cambridge Conservation Initiative and The University of Leeds Poetry Centre.

Poems are invited that deal with any aspect of nature and place – these terms will be given a wide interpretation by the judge Helen Mort.

Deadline 1st April 2025.

Prizes

1st prize – £1000
2nd prize – £500
3rd prize – £250

***

Good news! The deadline to submit to the The Short Long-Distance Writing Contest has been extended!

How it works: Send us a story, 500 words or less, fiction or non-fiction, that spans two or more Canadian time zones. This could mean a physical transition across time zones (like a road trip), or an implied transition between them (like a phone call). The details are up to you—get creative!

You have until Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:59PM PST to submit.

Submit here:

https://www.geist.com/contests/the-2024-short-long-distance-writing-contest

THE MARITIME WRITERS’ SOCIAL GROUP

Writing can be a lonely act. But it doesn’t have to be. The Maritime Writers Social Club is for Maritime writers at any stage — aspiring, beginner or professional. It’s not a how-to-write group, although we do talk about the business of writing at times and members are encouraged to ask questions or share writing, but more about getting together with other writers to chat, talk writing, or simply have a coffee. Our goal is for members of shared geographical areas to create regular meet-ups with the hope of a larger Maritime gathering eventually. Membership is free. Look for us on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/937566541727118

That's it for this month!

Hello, Members and Friends.

As I write this on Thanksgiving Monday, I hope you enjoyed some fabulous turkey this weekend, and maybe a drive to enjoy the fall colours? However you spent it, I hope the cooler weather and lovely scenery are serving to inspire you.

Upcoming WFNB Events, News, and Requests

WordsFall is only a couple of weeks away!

...and we would love to see you there. Numbers are down this year, so if you’re thinking of attending some or all of the events, please register now. What a great lineup of workshops we have to offer this fall in the charming little town of Sussex. Don’t miss the readings, music and professional development sessions.

Arts Atlantic Symposium is this coming weekend.

The Arts Atlantic Symposium, a production of ArtsLink NB, takes place October 18-20 in Moncton. During this time, the region’s top artists, performers, and industry professionals come together for three days of art installations, exhibitions, performances, workshops, and panels that celebrate the power of Atlantic Canadian art. The WFNB will be involved in the Arts Atlantic Symposium marketplace (read: trade show) at the Crowne Plaza Moncton on Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. 

Donations needed! I’d like to put together a gift basket for our table and sell raffle tickets with a winner to be drawn that day. If you have any NB books (signed by the author would be awesome!) to donate, or any other pleasing addition to a writing-related basket, please drop me a line at info@wfnb.ca.

LIMITED TIME OFFER for members and friends

We were pleased to present three online workshops led by Frances Peck this year, Sentences with Style in May, Show Don’t tell in July, and From Editor to Author, a Journey in Three Parts in September. For those folks who missed those sessions, we have bundled those three zoom sessions and the accompany notes for a very low price. We have permission to share these sessions until summer 2025. Visit our online store for details.

You can register now for winter retreat

with poetry mentor Art Moore. January 17 – 19 at Villa Madonna. Get back into the swing of things after the busy Christmas rush – last winter’s retreat was a cozy and inspiring time for everyone, and I hope you’ll join us.

A note from Christine Lovelace, WFNB member and Head of UNB’s Archives & Special Collections.

Hello New Brunswick authors and publishers! UNB’s Special Collections (a unit of UNB Libraries), is committed to collecting New Brunswickana, which includes literature written by or about New Brunswickers, or published by New Brunswick businesses.  UNB Archives collects New Brunswick authors’ literary papers and the business papers of New Brunswick publishers. 

 If you think your book or archival papers should be included in the UNB Libraries collections, please send an email to UNB’s Archives & Special Collections at archives@unb.ca. 

You can check to see if we have a copy of your work in our library catalogue.  You can search the UNB Archives' catalogue to see whose papers are located at UNB - Christine Lovelace, UNB Archives and Special Collections

Advertise with us

Remember that if you are not a member, you can still advertise your workshops or other events in Inkspot, for the low price of $15 per monthly edition. Members, of course, can advertise their news and events for free. Contact info@wfnb.ca to place a notice in the next Inkspot, which is published (most of the time!) on the 13th.

Submissions are still open for the NB Book Awards

...until December 1. You’ll find the submission form on our NBBA page. Please send two copies of your book to me before mid-December, when I’ll box them up and mail them to this year’s stellar judges.

That's it for me - I hope to see you at WordsFall, or another event in the near future.

WordWorthy - If you feel safe in the area that you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you’re capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth, and when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting -- David Bowie

Welcome New Members

Andrew MacDonald - All we know about Andrew is his pen name - A.D. MacDonald. Welcome, Andrew! :)

Mike Thorn (https://mikethornwrites.com/) is a fiction writer and film critic in Fredericton, NB, where he is also currently a doctoral candidate in the Department of English (Creative Writing). He has published three books and has appeared in many literary publications, particularly in the horror genre. He is interested in the genres of editing, essays, fiction, horror, speculative fiction, freelance writing, and short stories. Welcome, Mike!

Member News

WFNB member (and former president!) Zev Bagel would like to announce the recent launch of his cozy mystery, The Romanian Cleaning Lady, the first in a series of Bright and Breasy Mysteries. The novel is the second publication announced by Merlin Star Press.

The gala launch took place on Oct. 10, and you can purchase his novel at merlinstarpress.com

WFNB member Barb Parker is excited to share that she will be holding her BOOK LAUNCH for her third non-fiction book on October 26, from 2-5:30. The launch party will be held in our social room in her complex on McKnight Street, Fredericton, N.B. Follow Barb on Facebook for more dates of upcoming events.

She is booked for a signing at Partridge Island Publishers, October 23, 2024. (Weather permitting) at the Area 506 container village.

Barb will be at Grand Manan Community Market November 16 and at Immanuel Family Church November 17 with her books.

Finally, she will be at Marysville Heritage Center on November 24 from 1-4.

WFNB member Harold Taylor, owner of TaylorinTime, announces the launch of his new book, MAKING WRITING WORK FOR YOU. Come to the Sussex Regional Library, 46 Magnolia Ave., Sussex, on Thursday, October 24, 2024 (the day before WordsFall!), 2:30 pm to 4 pm. At his free workshop, Harold will explain how writing can promote your business, further your career, provide passive income, improve your physical and mental health and self-esteem, and supplement your income during retirement. At ninety, he is still writing, volunteering, traveling, and enjoying whatever life has to offer. Call 506-432-4585 to register.

WFNB members Jen McGrath and Kelly Cooper are discussing picture books at the AX: The Arts & Culture Centre of Sussex Gallery, Sussex on Thursday, October 24. Check out axartscentre.ca

(Also, the AX Gallery will be the site of many WordsFall events that coming weekend! Kelly will be leading a session on Saturday, October 26 called Foraged and Formed: a workshop inspired by the AX Gallery. She'll be teaching about ekphrasis -- the act of describing a thing in vivid detail. Sign up here.

AWARD PROGRAMS

Announcing Inaugural Toby Awards:A New Prize for Self-Published Mystery Writers

Accepting submissions: September 17 - December 16, 2024

Canadian mystery authors who are self-published now have a new platform to showcase their work with the launch of the Toby Awards. The first of its kind in Canada, the award is open to self-published Canadian authors who have published trade paperbacks in the mystery genre in 2024. 

The 2024 Toby Award winning entry will receive $1,000 worth of printed copies produced by Vimi Corp. of Burlington, ON., to be generously donated to participating libraries. 

The judging panel comprised of authors, journalists, editors and librarians will focus on both the writing quality and originality of the entries. The winner will be announced at the May 2025 Little Branches Rural Roots Library Conference in Perth, Ont.

For more information on how to enter, including submission guidelines, please visit https://tobyaward.wordpress.com/

COMPETITIONS

The High Marsh Press (a micro-press operating at Mount Allison University) is putting out a call for the second annual Deborah Wills Chapbook Competition. It's free to enter, open to anybody who does not yet have a book publication (either trade collection or chapbook), and the winning manuscript will receive $500 and be produced as a limited-edition hand-crafted chapbook.

More information can be found on our website (www.highmarshpress.ca), and I've attached a poster for the competition.

***

The 2025 CBC Short Story Prize is currently open until Nov. 1, 2024. Writers can submit original, unpublished short fiction that is up to 2,500 words (there is no minimum word requirement). The winner will receive $6,000 from the Canada Council for the Arts, a two-week writing residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity and have their work published on CBC Books. All the details for the prize will be available here.

2024 Fiddlehead Poetry Contest:

Do you write poetry? Do you want to be published in one of Canada's premier journals? Do you want to win $2000 AND get paid for your publication?! The Fiddlehead's Ralph Gustafson Poetry Contest is open for submissions from now until Monday, December 2! Our judges this year are Meghan Kemp-Gee, D.M. Bradford, and Colleen Coco Collins. Guidelines and information: https://thefiddlehead.ca/contest

Twitter: https://x.com/TheFiddlehd/status/1843666076221222979

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/p/qdvgzvqHazoNqPC7/

SPECIAL OFFER TO WFNB MEMBERS!

The Canadian Freelance Guild (CFG) is at the start of a new season of Professional Development events for the remainder of the year and into 2025, as you can see from the list:

https://canadianfreelanceguild.ca/en/page/page-content/calendar-2/

CFG is also offering a new discount code for WFNB members, which can be found in the members-only section of the website. To access the members-only section, log in to the website with your username and password, and click “Members-Only” in the top menu bar of our website.

OPEN MIC!

Sunday, October 20th, 

3:00 - 4:00 pm,

Bill Johnstone Memorial Park Activity Centre, 

70 Main Street, Sackville, NB

The Writers’ Open Mic is a free, monthly event for writers of all ages and genres. Come out and read your poems, short stories, comics, novels, essays, twitter posts, stand-up comedy, etc. Or just come to listen. All are welcome.

A projector will be set up for those with comics or other images or videos they want to share. Files can be brought on a USB or emailed in advance. Accessibility concerns, general questions, and image or video files can be directed to laurawatsonartwork@gmail.com.

CALLS FOR SUBMISSION

Sunspot Lit, Novella-length Fiction and Nonfiction

For a limited time, Sunspot Lit is calling for single works of novella-length fiction or nonfiction in any category, including memoir, literary, genre, and historical. Open October 1 through October 31. Guidelines and submission forms at Submittable: https://sunspotlit.submittable.com/submit or Duotrope: https://duotrope.com/duosuma/submit/sunspot-literary-journal-LIXJW.

Fiddlehead General submissions:

The Fiddlehead is now open for submissions! The Fiddlehead publishes excellent writing in English, or translations into English, from all over the world and in a variety of styles, including experimental genres. Our editors are accepting new unsolicited works in fiction (including excerpts from novels), creative nonfiction, and poetry until November 30. The Fiddlehead pays $65 per printed page. Submission guidelines: https://thefiddlehead.ca/submit

Hello Friends and Members 

Hello, Members and Friends! “By all these lovely tokens, September days are here,” writes poet Helen Hunt Jackson, “with summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer.”

Upcoming WFNB Events, News, and Requests

WordsFall is just around the corner!

WordsFall 2024 will take place the weekend of October 25 -27, and I hope you’ve taken a look at the schedule and plan to attend the whole weekend, or even just a workshop or two. It will be well worth it, and we’ve always enjoyed our time in Sussex in the past. We’ll be featuring our workshop leaders on social media in the leadup to the event. Don’t miss it!

New Brunswick Book Awards submissions are open.

If you have a book to submit to the 2025 NB Book Awards (there’s a new fifth award this year, if you haven’t heard), you have until December 1 to fill out a submission form and send us two copies of your book. There are always stragglers, but we do try to mail the books off to the judges by mid-December. Remember, the program costs nothing to enter, but the author must be a New Brunswick resident, and the book must have been published in the 2024 calendar year. Check out this page for more details.

Arts Atlantic Symposium in October

The Arts Atlantic Symposium, a production of ArtsLink NB, takes place October 18-20 in Moncton. During this time, the region’s top artists, performers, and industry professionals come together for three days of art installations, exhibitions, performances, workshops, and panels that celebrate the power of Atlantic Canadian art. The WFNB will be involved in the Arts Atlantic Symposium marketplace (read: trade show) at the Crowne Plaza Moncton on Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. 

I’d like to put together a gift basket for our table and sell raffle tickets with a winner to be drawn that day. If you have any NB books (signed by the author would be awesome!) to donate, or any other pleasing addition to a writing-related basket, please drop me a line at info@wfnb.ca.

Member News

In Memoriam: Helena Hook (1946-2024)

Photo: Seated at right is Helena with other participants at the 2022 WFNB Fall Writers’ Retreat

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Helena Hook, a cherished member of WFNB, who died peacefully on August 3rd in the palliative care unit at Saint John Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on June 4th, 1946, in Athlone, Ireland, Helena emigrated to New Brunswick with her husband Stuart and their two children, Fiona and Ian, in 1973. The family settled on Darlings Island, where they were blessed with a third child, David. Later, they moved to Quispamsis, where Helena's love of nature bloomed in the form of beautiful, lush gardens surrounding their home.

Helena’s life was a canvas of vibrant colours, from her work at her Saint John business, Radiant Colours, to the vivid imagery in her poetry and prose. Her passion for writing and learning was unwavering. At the age of 60, she returned to university, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English. Her thesis explored the work of the late Irish poet and playwright Seamus Heaney, further connecting her to her Irish roots.

A devoted writer, Helena was a beloved member of the Seaside Scribes, a Saint John writing group who will miss her dearly. Her work was published in various anthologies and magazines, and her family memoir, Threads of Time, offers a touching tribute to her mother’s resilience. Set in the busy market town of Athlone in the 1950s and 60s, Threads of Time unravels the complex fabric of an Irish family and the enduring strength of its bonds.

Threads of Time is available on Kindle and in paperback on Amazon.

Helena’s obituary can be found here.

Chuck Bowie featured in the Canada Council National Public Reading Program.

As part of the Canada Council National Public Reading Program, WFNB member Chuck Bowie will be reading from his newest Suspense-Thriller novel, Lost in London. This is number 6 in the Donovan: Thief4Hire series.

Where: Dog-Eared Books, Unit 218, 281 Restigouche Rd, Oromocto, NB

When: Saturday, November 2, 2 pm – 4 pm

Heather Browne is offering a Creative Writing Course in Fredericton.

WFNB member Heather Browne once again leads a creative writing course in her community on Tuesday mornings  beginning October 22 for 8 weeks in Fredericton. For details please email kathryn.baird@fredericton.ca

Shawn Lawlor releases his first novel.

WFNB member Shawn Lawlor would like to announce his first novel release, entitled Boom Road, published by Galleon Books. It's also available through Chapters/Indigo, and through Amazon.

Synopsis: Jackie O'Connor is true to his word and expects one thing from others: to be true to theirs. Growing up in rural New Brunswick on the banks of the mystical Miramichi River, leading a straightforward life and working at the sawmill, Jackie doesn't demand much else from anyone.

But everything takes an unforeseen turn when he inherits a large sum of money. The world around him spins upside down - the dead come back to haunt him, and others seek to deceive him.

Navigating this new reality with his dog Ruby at his side, beset by urgent requests and shadowy friendships, Jackie paddles his canoe through spiraling circumstances and an ever-changing world, attempting to keep both his vessel afloat and his moral compass straight.

Barb Parker’s newest book launches in October.

Barb Parker is pleased to announce that her third nonfiction book, written from the heart with love and compassion, is due out in October. Don’t Leave Me is published by Word Alive Press in Manitoba.  Barb’s first book, My Sister's Journey From Headache to Heartache, published in 2010, was voted top Reader's Choice of the Year 2013 by Salon Magazine. Her second book, The Choice - My Path My Destiny, was published in 2013, both by Essence Publishing in Belleville, Ontario.

Jennifer Shelby receives ArtsNB Creation Grant.

WFNB member Jennifer Shelby is delighted to announce that she was granted an ArtsNB Creation Grant to write a new novel entitled "A Binding of Story and Spellwork." Yay! Congratulations, Jennifer.

Also, in response to the warning about scams in the July inkspot, Jennifer thought our members might like to know about the Writer Beware blog which is such an important resource for writers to research companies who approach them.

Writer Beware is a branch of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers’ Association (SFWA), so they are big enough to have legal clout and aren't afraid to speak up. It's also a fantastic place to report scams and feel a little less helpless in the face of so many writer predators out there.

Welcome New Members

Lauren Hoyt 

Lauren Hoyt has a degree in journalism and works in the field of communications. A Grand Bay-Westfield resident, she writes in the genres of corporate writing, creative nonfiction, editing, fiction, journalism, nonfiction, and photography. Welcome, Lauren!

Linda Turner 

Linda Turner is a new member from Amherst, Nova Scotia, and works in the genres of Flash/Micro fiction, Middle Grade, and Travel Writing. Welcome, Linda!

Finally, I’m always sad, even resentful, when my favourite season - summer - is over. But this time of year also has a charm of its own. Not everyone’s faces are glum – some kids look forward to seeing their friends and establishing a routine at school, with sports and activities.  College students are settled back in their dorms and apartments, like my youngest son, who is anxious to complete the final year of his degree. And then there’s harvest time.Those of us who plant seeds in the spring are enjoying the fruits of our labour.

For example, my family helped me harvest our grapevines last weekend - the knavish birds had begun to steal them, but I’m stingy. I’ll make Grapefulness jelly for the first time since we moved to a new home a three years ago. It’s satisfying to hear that familiar *pop!* as the bottles seal.

As I write this, a different sort of season is ending at the WFNB.

Kris Windley, who has been serving as our program director for the last two years, is moving on to other things. I’m sure she’ll tell you more in her programming message, but on behalf of the board, I’d like to say thanks for her contribution to our organization. I will miss our discussions about long-term strategies, marketing expertise and new programming (like the first season of our new WordCraft podcast). She provided a fresh spark of energy during her time here, and I hope we’ll see her around at events from time to time.

That’s all for now. Cheers,

Rhonda

WordWorthy: I think that most of us want to offer the world something of quality – something that the world will consider “good,” or “important.” That’s really the enemy. Because it’s not up to us whether what we do is any “good.” And if history has taught us anything, the world is an extremely unreliable critic. You have to ask yourself if human creativity matters. Ethan Hawke – actor, writer, director.

Program Newsletter

Current and Upcoming Program News

I am so proud of the work I’ve done here at WFNB.

Over the last two years, while working for and with the WFNB executive and membership, I have enjoyed planning, dreaming, and executing some pretty audacious projects with Rhonda. From our weekly meetings over coffee and date squares to frightening her with *yet another* new plan or idea to worry about, it has been a pleasure to carry on in our little army of two.

I may yet make a few more cameo appearances on the Kris and Rhonda Roadshow moving forward, but because of personal obligations and the still unsatisfactory science of cloning, it’s time for me to hang up a handful of the way-too-many hats I’m wearing.

Given the current need for teachers in NB - and the not insignificant impact a few young writers had on my heart this past WordSpring - I know that moving back to the classroom as a teacher will be a satisfying one, but I’ll miss the work we do, and the joy with which I’ve dreamt of all we can still do in our small but mighty literary province.

Thank you so much for the experience, writers! It has been a great challenge and pleasure. That said, read on for this month’s program news.

WordCraft Season 1

The inaugural season of our professional development and public outreach podcast, WordCraft, has received nothing but lovely reviews. I’m not personally surprised, because the incredible talent of our host, Jenna Morton, and the quality and generosity of the established writers here in New Brunswick work together in such a way that makes success inevitable.

That’s not to say that success came without work and commitment. We’d like to thank Jenna Morton and Tosh Taylor of the Podcast Hub, as well as the six authors who shared their time and experience with us. If you haven’t listened yet, please do so on Spotify - and leave a review! It helps others to find and benefit from the great work these folks have done.

Transcripts and show notes are available here, on the WordCraft blog. 

I have truly enjoyed the process of developing this project: the excitement of brainstorming and planning, designing graphics and production materials, transcribing the terrific conversations - and finally sharing them with you. It’s been a pleasure, and timed very well for me personally as a lovely cap on my time at the WFNB.

We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.

Volunteer/Work Opportunities

Request for Volunteer Jurors

Crime Writers of Canada seeks jurors for our 2025 CWC Awards of Excellence. Candidates should be:

• knowledgeable about mystery & crime fiction & nonfiction, whether by long reading or work/volunteering in the writing and publishing industries
• willing to spend the time necessary to thoughtfully read the entries in their category
• prepared to provide 1-3 sentence assessments of the material for the author
• proficient in the language of the award category they are assigned (English or French), and

• willing to read ebooks

For more information contact Ludvica: awards@crimewriterscanada.com

Deadline to volunteer: 25 October 2024

Applications for Saskatoon Public Library's Writer in Residence 2025-2026 term are now open. Check out the job posting for more information.

Community Events

Writers’ Open Mic in Sackville

WFNB member Laura Watson is announcing another Open Mic in Sackville!

Sunday, September 15th

3:00 - 4:00 pm

Bill Johnstone Memorial Park Activity Centre

70 Main Street, Sackville, NB

The Writers’ Open Mic is a free, monthly event for writers of all ages and genres. Come out and read your poems, short stories, comics, novels, essays, twitter posts, stand-up comedy, etc. Or just come to listen. All are welcome.

A projector will be set up for those with comics or other images or videos they want to share. Files can be brought on a USB or emailed in advance. Accessibility concerns, general questions, and image or video files can be directed to laurawatsonartwork@gmail.com.

Online Event: Poetry Workshop

Intimate Negotiation: The Art of Writing Family in Poetry workshop will look at the art, and challenges, of writing family in poetry. We will discuss poetry and how to write about family (style, technique and some unique approaches), try out a few writing exercises and workshop participants' poems.

Hosts: Margo Wheaton & Kayla Geitzler

Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024

Time: 1-4pm AST

Where: on Zoom

Cost: $59 CAD you register before Sept. 15th, 2024

$69 CAD after September 15th.

$30 for BIPOC participants

Writers of all levels are welcome in this safe and supportive space!

Margo Wheaton is the author of The Unlit Path Behind the House (Gerald Lampert Award) and Rags of Night in Our Mouths (amazing book!). Margo has won many awards for her writing and is well-regarded for her superior workshop facilitation skills.

Kayla Geitzler is the author of That Light Feeling Under Your Feet and co-editor of Cadence: Voix feminines Female Voices. She was named a Rad Woman of Canadian Poerty and was Moncton's first Anglophone Poet Laureate.

Saint John

Amazing News: The Fog Lit Festival is back!

Saint John’s flagship literary festival is returning to Saint John on September 26-28, 2024 with a weekend of in-person author events and writing workshops. 

Headlining this year’s festival are award-winning Newfoundland poet Douglas Walbourne-Gough, whose poetry collection Island will be launched at the Saint John Arts Centre on Friday, September 27; and Scotiabank Giller Prize-shortlisted fiction author Michelle Winters, whose new book Hair for Men is set in New Brunswick. The festival will also feature a variety of local authors including writer and cartoonist Brandon Hicks, bestselling children’s author Riel Nason, and writer Sue Nelson Buckley.

Thursday, September 26 

Opening Reception & Book Launch: On the Border by Brandon Hicks 7PM at Imperial Theatre (Golding's Lounge), 12 King Square S 

Friday, September 27 

Poetry Launch: Island by Douglas Walbourne-Gough 

in-conversation with Rachel Bryant 7PM at Saint John Arts Centre, 20 Peel Plaza  

Saturday, September 28 

The Little Ghost Who Was A Quilt: Kids' Craft Workshop with Riel Nason:
11AM at Saint John Free Public Library, 1 Market Square 

How Stories Grow & Evolve: Reading & Workshop with Sue Nelson Buckley
1PM at Imperial Theatre (Golding's Lounge), 12 King Square S 

Fiction Launch: Hair for Men by Michelle Winters in-conversation with Julia Wright
7PM at Imperial Theatre (Golding Lounge), 12 King Square S

Fog Lit Festival is a not-for-profit literary festival based in Saint John, New Brunswick that offers an inclusive and exciting lineup of in-person events, book launches, literary panel discussions, workshops, and author readings. The original Fog Lit Festival, which operated from 2013-2019, has been relaunched with a new board of directors to oversee the development of the revamped festival.

Fredericton

The Charlotte Street Arts Centre, 732 Charlotte Street, Fredericton, NB, presents a fall Horror Fiction Writing Class with Mike Thorn.  Check out the Facebook Event or visit their website.

The Fiddlehead is extending an invitation to every near and far to join us on September 21 to celebrate our 300th issue! The festivities will start at 1:00 AST with a free fiction writing workshop at the Fredericton Public Library hosted by Kasia Van Schiak followed by a hybrid reading from 2:00 - 3:00 AST on Zoom and at the Fredericton Public Library. The reading will feature contributor Eleni Zaptses, Kasia Van Schiak, and members of the local writing group FEILDS. To attend the readings virtually, please register by emailing thefiddlehead@gmail.com to receive the Zoom link.

When registering please provide your name and whether or not you require ASL services. If attending the reading in person, registration is not necessary. Please also send us an email if you plan to attend the workshop. Walk-ins are welcome but we would like to have an estimate of how many people plan on attending. Find all our event details on our Facebook Event.

Community Writing Groups

Online “The Artist’s Way” group

Starting in September a new Facebook group page will be open for writers interested in following the principles and creative activities taken from Julia Cameron’s classic, The Artist’s Way.

If you are interested in receiving an invite to this page and joining others to participate for thirteen consecutive weeks as outlined below, please contact Louise at fundybaywriters@gmail.com and she will send you a Facebook invite for September 15th. Each week will commence on Sunday evening.

Two weeks will give you enough time to obtain a copy of the book either from the library or purchase through any number of sources (new or used) and then we can communally get our creative juices flowing using weekly readings, daily morning pages, Artist dates, ongoing playful activities and check-in’s as suggested in the book.

• Week one -  introductions
  
• Week two - recovering a sense of safety
  
• Week three - recovering a sense of identity
  
• Week four - recovering a sense of authority
  
• Week five - recovering a sense of integrity
  
• Week six - recovering a sense of possibility
  
• Week seven - recovering a sense of abundance
  
• Week eight - recovering a sense of connection
  
• Week nine - recovering a sense of strength
  
• Week ten - recovering a sense of compassion
  
• Week eleven - recovering a sense of self-care / protection
  
• Week twelve - recovering a sense of autonomy
  
• Week thirteenth - recovering a sense of faith

Upcoming Contests, Submissions, and Grants

2024 Troubadour International Poetry Prize

You have a little over a week to submit a poem to the 2024 Troubadour International Poetry Prize! Poems on any subject must be received by Monday 23rd September.

Prizes of £2,000, £1,000 & £500, plus 20 commendeds, & a chance to read online alongside our judges Jane Yeh & Glyn Maxwell in an online international prize-night celebration on Monday 9th December.

More information on the website.

Musicworks Electronic Music Composition Contest

The fourteenth annual Musicworks Electronic Music Composition Contest opened August 1, 2024 and closes October 31. This juried contest spotlights new musical talent from around the world, offering cash prizes and opportunities to be heard and published. In 2023, we received 150 submissions from nineteen countries, including Canada, the U.S., the U.K., as well as Belgium, Slovenia, Taiwan, Brazil, and others. Check out prize details, eligibility, assessment criteria, rules and restrictions, and the entry portal here.

That’s all for this letter, and for me. Thanks again for sharing the WFNB with me these past two years, folks. I will miss developing projects and sharing them with you each month, but I know that the Federation will keep on growing in the coming years. I’m excited to see where we all go together.

xo
Kris

Hello Friends and Members 

As I write this, it’s only August 9.  I’m setting up my portion of Inkspot a little early because I’m headed out on vacation. Nothing fancy, just visits to my favourite Maritime communities and natural places. While I’m away, check out what’s on the horizon

Upcoming WFNB Events, News, and Requests

Summer Retreat Cancelled

The summer retreat we planned for August 23-25, was unfortunately cancelled, as we didn’t fill the necessary spots to provide catering services. But! We secured the Winter retreat date: January 17 - 19, at the Villa Madonna. Refunds to those who had already reserved their spot can be expected next week, when I’m back in the office.

Final Frances Peck Workshop Coming Soon!

September 10, Frances Peck will return to complete her three-workshop series for us with an online informal discussion about publishing called, “From Editor to Author: A Journey in Several Parts.” Come prepared with your questions about the publishing industry, the writing process, marketing - whatever interests you.

For three decades, Frances Peck was a successful behind-the-scenes wordsmith, working on other people’s publications as an editor, ghostwriter, and rewriter. She has also taught over 10,000 people how to get better at editing and writing. Then she decided it was time to return to her youthful passion—writing fiction.

In this webinar, Frances will recount her journey from hidden editor to published author, discuss the delicate dance of creativity and editing, and field questions on writing, editing, publishing, and marketing. Check out the event page.

WordsFall 2024

Plans are underway for WordsFall in Sussex, October 25-27. You can register on the event page now. Rooms have been reserved for us at the Amsterdam Inn (which you can reserve now - $129 for a single and $139 for a double). You have one month to decide, because the fixed cut off date for reserved rooms is September 9.

Our readings and workshops will take place at the AX Gallery, the Amsterdam Inn, The Mule Bar and Grill, and Golden Jubilee Hall. 

We have some great sessions lined up: On Saturday morning, Carlos Anthony will return to teach a class on writing successful Canada Council grants, and there will be other workshops to choose from led by these wonderful Maritime authors: Charlene Carr, Kelly Cooper, Brandon Mitchell, Fawn Parker, and Zev Bagel.

If you write nonfiction, historical fiction, or you’re just a history buff, we hope a guided tour of the Hussars Museum in Sussex will be fun and interesting for you. And as always, if you can’t take in the whole weekend, you can pick and choose what to attend. It will be great to see you at our fall gathering!

NB Book Awards Announces Fifth Award!

If you’ve been following our social media pages, you’ll know that we’ve added a fifth award to the NB Book Awards: The Books for Young Readers Award, generously sponsored by JD Irving Ltd.

Submissions for the calendar year 2024 are now open, so check out the program page on our website to fill out an entry form. We need two copies of your book, please, postmarked by December 1, 2024.

Member News

Andrew Butters releases new novel

Andrew Butters recently released the novel, Known Order Girls. It can be found on Amazon, at Chapters Moncton, and in the Partridge Island Publishing Area 506 Container Village store.

His other books can be found on his website. Andrew spends most of his time interacting with other writers and readers (and posting cat pics) on Facebook. 

Peter Clair is reading at James McConnell Regional Library

Peter Clair is having a reading at the James McConnell Regional Library. Find him at 50 Falmouth Street, Sydney, Nova Scotia, on Sept 7, 2024. The reading will take place from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Peter will be reading new material, and also from his novel, Taapoategl and Pallet.

Hannah State’s novel named finalist in 2024 prize for independent fiction.

Hannah State’s second sci-fi novel, Journey to the Dark Galaxy, was named a finalist in the 2024 Whistler Independent Book Awards in the 'fiction' category. This prestigious national award celebrates excellence in Canadian independent publishing and is sponsored by The Writers' Union of Canada. There were hundreds of entries this year. The book was also named a finalist in the 2023 Wishing Shelf Book Awards (UK). Hannah looks forward to participating in the upcoming Whistler Writers Festival in October. You can find her on facebook.

Welcome New Members

Gary Bernard

Gary lives in Riverview and writes essays and poetry. Welcome, Gary!

Alyssa Leigh Briscoe

Alyssa Leigh Briscoe lives in Fredericton and works in several genres: editing, fantasy, Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, and short stories. Welcome, Alyssa!

Eoin Fraser

Eoin Fraser is a well-travelled military member living in Fredericton. Eoin has been writing poetry since childhood and is working toward publication. Welcome, Eoin!

Jeffrey Little

Jeffrey Little is a returning member who writes fiction, science fiction, and flash/micro fiction under the pen name J.G. Little. Welcome back, Jeffrey!

Christine Lovelace

Christine Lovelace is a writer from Fredericton, and we’re happy to have her as a new member. Welcome, Christine!

Faith Matchett

Faith Matchett writes nonfiction from her home in Fredericton. Welcome, Faith!

Emily Sanford

Emily Sanford is a poet and prose writer whose work has been published widely. She writes in a variety of genres: blogging, corporate writing, creative nonfiction, copywriting, essays, fiction, flash/micro fiction, freelance writing, playwriting, poetry, and short stories. Welcome, Emily!

Nando Speranza

Nando Speranza is a Juno-nominated music producer, musician and former studio owner who lives in Moncton. He writes in the genres of biography, nonfiction and spiritual. Welcome, Nando!

Amber Swan

Amber Swan (pen name A. Swan) is a physician, farmer and writer living Harvey. Amber writes in the genres of children’s, comedy, corporate writing, editing, fiction, playwriting and poetry. Welcome, Amber!

Harold Taylor

Harold Taylor is a nonfiction writer living in Sussex. He is a time management expert and has been writing books and articles on this subject for 50 years, including the Canadian bestseller, Making Time Work for You. Welcome, Harold!

Julie Trites

Julie Trites is a corporate and fiction writer living in Quispamsis. Welcome, Julie!

I hope all of you have also had time to get away this summer. It’s been a wonderful season, and it’s not quite over yet. Remember this sage advice from our own Gerard Collins. “Be unflinchingly truthful. There is no room for kindness in writing. There is only truth.” 

Cheers,

Rhonda