Jennifer Hester Mattox

Emily Dickinson died OTD 139 years ago and her poetry continues to engage and enlighten minds. There is power in words.

In case you missed it—or want to see it again—here is the video of Tuesday’s Kentucky Great Writers Series 250Lex Special Edition: Lexington’s Kentucky Poets Laureate at the @carnegiecenterlex.bsky.social .

www.facebook.com/share/v/18kJ...

Now more than ever, literary events soothe the soul and fill us with what’s needed. I was honored to speak of my writing journey on the same stage where some of Lexington’s brightest stars were featured during last night’s 250Lex Literary Celebration. Thanks to @gwenda.bsky.social for the pic!

“I believe writing a novel is the highest achievement of all time.”—Hart Hanson, creator of Bones at #AWP25 “From Prose to Screen and Back Again” session

“Seeing something that was fictional made real is kind of extraordinary.”—Emily St. John Mandel, #AWP25 @nationalbook.bsky.social’s Page to Screen session.

Let’s escape reality right now with a daydream: What fictional setting would you visit (or live in) if you could?

It was an honor to co-host the Kentucky Writers Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony featuring an outstanding class of inductees. The video is now up on @carnegiecenterlex.bsky.social’s YouTube channel.

One of favorite authors, of one of my favorite books! Get the chance to learn about writing from Meg Shaffer—she’s a master storyteller. @carnegiecenterlex.bsky.social

I love a good writing retreat, and this one is! I attended last year and loved everything from the sessions and the intimate conversations with authors, to the Endicott House and the delicious chef-prepared meals. You can bet I’ve already registered for this year’s retreat! I highly recommend it.

2024 Annual Review The Year of Balance

Earlier this month I shared my writing goals for 2025. I love hearing how other writers’ goals are going, too, and JT Ellison’s Annual Review post is always one of my favorites. Check it out below and/or find her at @thrillerchick.bsky.social (She’s also a great thriller writer. Read her books!)

One of the things I love most about coordinating the Kentucky Great Writers Series is bringing together a talented group of authors and hearing them read and discuss their books. You’ll love hearing from these three outstanding women writers!
@carnegiecenterlex.bsky.social

Instead of resolutions, I make writing goals. Here are mine for 2025:

1) Finish and polish the final draft of the WIP.
2) Start querying agents by Fall 2025.
3) Dedicate more time towards writing retreats and write-ins.

Writing friends, what do you plan to work towards in 2025?

#writingcommunity