publishing

Celebrating one year of A Mollusk Without a Shell: Essays on Self-Care for Writers

/ marybid

I always love a book birthday, and this past spring we celebrated one year of A Mollusk Without a Shell: Essays on Self-Care for Writers (University of Akron Press, 2024). It’s been wonderful hearing how this book has been a help for writers of various backgrounds and experience levels, as well as for artists working in other genres. When the first box of books arrived at the University of Akron Press office I had to text co-editor Julie Brooks Barbour right away, as it felt odd to be unboxing without her. Thanks to everyone who has read this book, given it as a gift to a friend, shared it with a student, or dropped us a line of gratitude. Also, major thanks to Rhye Pirie for the gorgeous artwork on the cover!

Photo of book release with four images in a grid

So you have a stack of poems. Now what?

/ marybid

I’m excited to be offering a workshop through the Lafayette Writers’ Studio in July: So you have a stack of poems. Now what? Next steps for your poetry manuscript with poet and editor Mary Biddinger

If you’re trying to figure out where to take a current project, wondering about ways to grow something new, curious about trends in publishing (including common problems), or just seeking writerly encouragement and community, this workshop is for you.

Workshop description: Ideal for earlier-career poets beginning to generate a body of work, published authors seeking fresh approaches to creating a new manuscript, and writers anywhere in between, this workshop will offer a combination of practical advice and contemplative pondering of a book’s possibilities. The workshop atmosphere will be positive and affirming, and significant time will be dedicated to answering questions from participants.