April Davila - Author
As I writer, I have often heard these two bits of advice: don't be afraid to steal, and, find your own voice. I will admit, though, that I have never heard them uttered in the same breath. In case you're new to the idea of stealing, check out … [Continue reading] about The Act of Artistic Stealing
As you know, I recently ran my first half marathon. Turns out, I’m actually pretty good at distance running. I enjoy it. In fact, I don’t really start to enjoy running until about the third mile. If someone had told me, back in high school, when … [Continue reading] about After The Half Marathon
For a long time I thought reading like a writer meant simply reading a lot. That's part of it. However, while reading is critical for writers, passively absorbing stories isn't enough. To really read like a writer, you have to stop trusting … [Continue reading] about Reading Like a Writer
Six years ago, I began volunteering once a week to read submissions for a literary journal. At the time I was in grad school, and I was trying to build up my resume. I figured Associate Editor would look good on paper, and it might be a fun way to … [Continue reading] about Reading for a Literary Journal Will Make You a Better Writer
Two women with bibles in their hands just knocked on my door. They kindly asked if I struggled with anxiety, and suggested that I reference my bible, Matthew 6:18, for some guidance on how to deal with it. I thanked them (because we all deal with … [Continue reading] about Buddhism
Years ago, when my friend Amy asked me if I wanted to be a part of her writing group, I was skeptical. I was just wrapping up my masters degree, and had been a part of three different writing groups, all of which had lasted no more than a meeting … [Continue reading] about 6 Tips for Forming a Writing Group
AWP is a pretty epic gathering of writers. I went once before, when I was in grad school, and had to travel all the way to Chicago to do it. So when I found out it was going to be here in LA this year I signed up right quick. In case you're … [Continue reading] about What I Learned at AWP This Year