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Literature: National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

What is NaNoWriMo?

Have you ever wanted to write a novel? NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) is an annual creative writing event that encourages you to start writing. Event participants attempt to write a 50,000-word manuscript during the month of November.

Signing Up

Sign up to set a goal, track your progress, and receive encouraging messages packed with resources. If you reach your word-count goal, you'll gain access to a special page with sponsor offers and more.

Join Other SU Writers!

Student Nora Hunter has started a NaNoWriMo group for the Shenandoah community. If you'd like to join the group and share support, inspiration, and camaraderie with other SU writers, email Nora for details. 

Getting Prepared

  • NaNo Prep 101: a 6-week "course" with simple exercises to help you plan your novel
    1. Develop a story idea
    2. Get to know your characters
    3. Outline your plot
    4. Explore your setting
    5. Get organized (and supported)
    6. Schedule time to write
  • Novel Prep playlist on YouTube

Writing Tips & Inspiration

What about Poets?

Although National Poetry Writing Month (NaPoWriMo) often coincides with National Poetry Month in April, there's no reason you can't do it November instead. Consider one or more of these ways to structure your 30 days of writing:

Come Write in Smith Library!

NaNoWriMo logoWhether you plan to write a 50,000-word manuscript or want to reach some other writing goal, join other Shenandoah University writers in the Armstrong Conference Room each week in November to work on your draft in good company.

Dates:
Wednesday, November 1
Tuesday, November 7
Tuesday, November 14
Tuesday, November 21
Tuesday, November 28
 
Time:
6:00pm - 9:00pm
 
Location:
Smith Library, Armstrong Conference Room
 
Wrap-Up Celebration, Friday, December 1, 12-2 PM
Bring your lunch to the Armstrong Conference Room and join other Shenandoah University writers to compare notes about your experiences, share success stories and challenges, and read from your work if you like. 

Books for Writers