Here are the top writing community websites as identified in the 25th Annual 101 Best Websites from the May/June 2023 issue of Writer's Digest.
1. Catapult’s Don’t Write Alone*
Don’t Write Alone, run by the publisher Catapult, seeks to make the writing process less isolating by collecting resources to help writers at every stage of their writing projects. Resources include essays on craft, author interviews, pitching help, writing prompts, and more.
2. Community of Literary Magazines & Presses*
The CLMP aims to connect small presses, literary magazines, and independent publishers to reader and libraries so if that’s more your style than the Big 5 or if you’re an independent publisher yourself, check out their plentiful resources which include a directory of publishers, events, calls for submissions, and select opportunities for funding.
3. Gutsy Great Novelist*
Founded by award-winning indie author Joan Dempsey, this online community truly feels like a community. With sections for business, craft, inspiration, and a bookstore, not only are the conversations well organized, the participants are thoughtful and supportive in their responses. Plus, Joan hosts “shed” hours where she answers your questions live from her writing shed.
4. Lambda Literary
For more than 30 years, Lambda Literary has been a leader in recognizing and elevating LGBTQ+ writers and readers. The organization offers book reviews, events, a writer’s retreat, and more—including the annual Lambda Literary Awards (known as the “Lammys”) which celebrates more than 150 authors across 24 categories.
5. NaNoWriMo
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) started as a month-long challenge to write 50,000 words in November. It has now expanded to include shorter challenges in April and July, the Young Writers Program, and the Come Write In program for libraries, bookstores, and other community spaces.
About Amy Jones
Amy Jones is the Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest and was the managing content director for WD Books. She is the editor of the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market and Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market. Prior to joining the WD team, Amy was the managing editor for North Light Books and IMPACT Books. Like most WD staffers, Amy is a voracious reader and has a particular interest in literary fiction, historical fiction, steamy romance, and page-turning mysteries. When she’s not reading, Amy can be found daydreaming about Italy or volunteering at her local no-kill cat shelter. Find Amy on Twitter @AmyMJones_5.
