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Write … the Next Page!: New writers’ group in Frisco provides inspiration

KIMBERLY NICOLETTI
summit daily news

Nancy Karklins calls herself a “closet writer,” or, better yet, a “blooming writer.” After working in local bookstores for the past seven years, she’s decided to facilitate a writing group in Frisco.

The group, which meets Thursday mornings at The Tea Bar adjoining the Next Page Bookstore, started three weeks ago. Karklins plans to run it through the summer and continue on if there’s interest.

Last Thursday, three other women gathered. It was Sharon Jones-Bird’s first time; she came in hopes of branching out from writing romance novels (one of which she is in the process of sending to publishers) and doing “more artistic writing” with shorter pieces.



“I want to bring out the emotions, put them on paper and shake them off,” she said.

While Jones-Bird already writes daily, Holly Tallman just aims to write more and is looking to the group to help her stay on a writing schedule.



The group begins with a review of the previous week’s homework, the last of which entailed listening to other people’s conversations for content, tone, mannerisms and more. Then Karklins reviews a writing habit, such as writing daily, and reads an inspiring quote. She teaches people techniques, such as clustering, which involves brainstorming in a way that reduces analytical thinking. Then it’s on to writing exercises, like composing a short piece, which connects senses with memory.

“I just love hearing the stories from everyone,” Tallman said.

The group gives feedback, rather than critiques, though Karklins said once the group builds confidence, it might move in that direction.

“It’s a forum where we can feel safe to share our writing with each other,” Karklins said. “We’re blooming writers – we just need to get it out.”

Suzanne Welles attends the group to get adult support and inspiration after years of teaching elementary-school-level writing. What she appreciates most from the weekly meetings:

“That feeling that your voice is being heard.”


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