Ozark Writers' Block | Schedule | About| 2009 Literary Event

Calling all writers! The Ozark Writers’ Block is looking for people who love the written word and would like to share their work and hone their craft. Read the OWB guidelines (PDF) for more information.

The group is open to writers of all levels of experience, and of all ages and interests. Attendees may read up to seven pages of their work from any style or genre: from non-fiction essays to poetry; from novels to short stories. The group will then provide helpful critiques. Copies of the work to share with the group are encouraged but not required. Meetings are free and no reservations are necessary. Donations to help offset operating costs are welcome.

"Just because your story is in your head, doesn’t mean it has translated to the paper," said George-Jones. "The group is such a good way to motivate yourself. Everyone learns from each other, and it helps you to realize you’re not the only person slaving over that screenplay/poem/novel/memoir. It's a comfortable and safe place to discuss your work, get ideas, and learn how to make it better."

George-Jones is an artist and has been writing since she was seven years old. She has won several awards, and over 35 of her poems and two short stories have been published in various literary magazines.

Atkinson has been writing since childhood and has had several poems and articles published in magazines and journals. Her essay "A Formalist Criticism of Frost’s 'Design'" was awarded first place in the Winston Churchill Essay contest sponsored by College of the Ozarks.