A Guide for Aspiring and Experienced Writers

Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but every writer needs a community—a group of like-minded individuals who inspire, critique, and support each other. Whether you're looking for feedback, motivation, or simply a space to share your love for storytelling, finding the right writing community can make all the difference.

Here’s how you can find and join a community of writers—both online and in-person—to help you grow and stay motivated on your writing journey.

1. Join a Writers’ Social Media Platform

The easiest way to connect with other writers is through social media platforms specifically designed for book lovers and writers.

🔹 ATReads – The Social Media for Writers and Bookworms

If you’re looking for a dedicated community of writers and readers, ATReads is the perfect place. Founded by Razib Paul in 2019, ATReads is a growing platform that connects writers, readers, and publishers. It offers writing challenges, discussions, and opportunities to share your work with an engaged audience.

👉 Why Join?
✅ Participate in writing challenges
✅ Get feedback on your work
✅ Network with fellow writers and book lovers

📌 Website: atreads.com

Other platforms you can explore:

• Wattpad (for fiction and serialized storytelling)
• Medium (for blogging and non-fiction writing)
• Reddit’s r/WritingCommunity (for discussions and critiques)
• Twitter (X) #WritingCommunity (for quick networking and engagement)

2. Join a Local Writers’ Group or Workshop

If you prefer in-person interactions, joining a local writers' group or workshop can provide valuable face-to-face support.

📌 Where to Find Local Writing Groups:
✔ Libraries and Bookstores – Many host writing groups or book clubs.
✔ Universities and Community Centers – Creative writing workshops are often open to the public.
✔ Meetup.com – A great place to find writing groups in your city.
✔ National Writing Organizations – Groups like NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) often have local chapters.

👉 Benefits of Local Writing Groups:
✅ Meet like-minded writers in your area
✅ Get real-time feedback on your work
✅ Participate in live workshops and discussions

3. Join an Online Writing Community or Forum

If you can’t find a local group, online writing communities provide a great alternative.

📌 Best Online Writing Communities:

• Scribophile – A critique-focused writing community
• Critique Circle – Exchange feedback with serious writers
• Absolute Write Water Cooler – Discuss everything from publishing to writing craft
• The Write Practice – Offers lessons, prompts, and community support

👉 Why Join Online Communities?
✅ Get constructive feedback from writers worldwide
✅ Participate in writing prompts and challenges
✅ Connect with mentors and experienced authors

4. Attend Writing Conferences and Events

Writing conferences and literary festivals are excellent opportunities to meet fellow writers, publishers, and industry professionals.

📌 Where to Find Writing Events:
✔ Local Literary Festivals – Many cities host annual book festivals.
✔ National Writing Conferences – Events like AWP, Writer’s Digest Conference, and NaNoWriMo meetups bring writers together.
✔ Virtual Writing Conferences – Many events now offer online participation, making it easier to connect globally.

👉 Benefits of Writing Conferences:
✅ Learn from experienced authors and editors
✅ Connect with publishers and agents
✅ Network with writers in your genre

5. Participate in Writing Challenges and Competitions

A great way to engage with a community is by joining writing challenges and contests.

📌 Popular Writing Challenges:

• NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) – Write a 50,000-word novel in November.
• ATReads Writing Challenges – Monthly writing prompts to keep you inspired.
• Reedsy Weekly Writing Contests – Short story contests with cash prizes.
• NYC Midnight Writing Competitions – Timed writing challenges in different genres.

👉 Why Join Writing Challenges?
✅ Stay motivated and disciplined
✅ Improve your writing speed and creativity
✅ Get recognized and win prizes

6. Start or Join a Critique Group

A critique group is a small, focused community of writers who exchange feedback on each other’s work.

📌 Where to Find Critique Partners:
✔ ATReads Community – Writers often share their work for feedback.
✔ Scribophile – A structured critique exchange system.
✔ Facebook Writing Groups – Many groups connect writers looking for critique partners.
✔ Goodreads Writers Groups – Discussions on writing and beta reading.

👉 Benefits of Critique Groups:
✅ Receive honest, constructive criticism
✅ Improve your writing through feedback
✅ Build a support system of fellow writers

Final Thoughts

Finding a community of writers can make your writing journey more enjoyable and productive. Whether you prefer online platforms like ATReads, local groups, critique circles, or writing challenges, there’s a perfect writing community out there for you.

💡 Have you found your ideal writing group yet? If not, which method will you try first? Let us know in the comments! ✍️😊