Tuesday, May 22, 2012

JuNoWriMo and BuNoWriMo

Every year, many writers participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which is held in November. Others would participate if it were scheduled for a different month. If setting aside the month of November to write a novel isn't feasible for you, consider JuNoWriMo.

JuNoWriMo stands for June Novel Writing Month. For many people, June works better than November.

Participants in JuNoWriMo don't have to write a novel; other works are acceptable. The goal is to write 50,000 words in June.

Remember that this is your first draft, which means you shouldn't expect to perfect your manuscript during the challenge. The idea is to get it all down on paper--or computer--so that you actually have something to work with when you're ready to start revising.

BuNoWriMo (Burrow Novel Writing Month) is another option. Also held in June, BuNoWriMo has the same goal of 50,000 words. Participants are required to join the BuNoWriMo group at Facebook.

Many people find that June works out better for them than November. If setting aside November to write a novel is inconvenient or even impossible for you, just remember that there are at least two other options. Of course, it's also possible to write on your own schedule, but joining other writers who make a firm commitment to achieve their goals is a great incentive.