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Blackfoot Communcations.

Flathead Writing Conference Celebrates 30 Years

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By DEBBIE BURKE

What if you always dreamed about writing the Great American Novel or penning your memoir? During the 2020-21 lockdown, you finally put the stories on paper. Congratulations! 

What do you do next? 

Find answers at the Flathead River Writers Conference, October 15-17, 2021. The popular event features bestselling authors, publishing professionals, and experts in the craft of writing.

For 30 years, the gathering has provided inspiration to writers of all ages and experience levels as well as taught creative and business skills required to publish. For the first time, the conference will be virtual via Zoom, enabling participation from anywhere in the world. 

The nonprofit group Authors of the Flathead sponsors the event. President Dr. Betty Kuffel said, “Health and safety considerations forced cancellation of the 2020 conference. Fortunately, the outstanding speakers we’d already confirmed were glad to join us for 2021.” 

The Lineup

  • USA Today bestselling author Tricia Goyer, of Little Rock, Ark., began her writing career when she was a member of Authors of the Flathead. 
  • Renowned writing instructor/author Larry Brooks is back by popular demand. His Story Engineering is considered an all-time best book on the craft of writing. Larry will teach a bonus master class on Friday, October 15, in addition to giving presentations during the weekend conference. 
  • Editor/award-winning author Keir Graff is a Montana native, who now lives in Chicago and writes children’s books and adult novels. 
  • Babs Mountjoy of Asheville, NC, is a former reporter turned novelist who writes fantasy, romantic suspense, and science fiction.
  • Agent Courtney Miller-Callihan is founder of Handspun Literary Agency in San Diego.
  • Acquisitions editor Chelsea Cambeis of BHC Press publishes modern contemporary fiction, fantasy, and thrillers.
  • Florida author/entrepreneur Maggie Hogarth writes children’s books and science fiction. She is also an artist and web designer. 

“While we’ll miss the face-to-face camaraderie with other writers, the virtual format makes sense,” said conference chair Craig Thomas Naylor. “Because we saved the high costs of bringing speakers to Montana, we lowered the fee. Out-of-town attendees not only pay less for an excellent education, they save money on their own travel expenses and lodging. It’s a win-win.”

The fee for Saturday and Sunday is $100, and single-day attendance is $75. The bonus, all-day workshop by Larry Brooks on Friday is $125, limited to 25 people who also sign up for both weekend days. MSN

To register and pay online, visit authorsoftheflathead.org/conference; or mail a check to Authors of the Flathead, P.O. Box 7711, Kalispell, MT 59904-0711.

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