Write by the Rails
Get Your Writing On Track
Write by the Rails (WbtR) is the Prince William Chapter of the Virginia Writers Club, a 501(c)(3) non-profit. We aim to raise the profile of the local literary community and explore ways we can nurture writers no matter where they are in their writing and publishing journey.
We strive to be an integral part of the larger arts community and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors of the area by providing opportunities to participate in events and activities that promote writing, literacy and self-expression.
If you are a writer age 18+, published or unpublished, and affiliated with Manassas, Manassas Park or Prince William County, join by completing an application here.
What's New With WbtR
Member Spotlight: Morgan Hazelwood
Morgan Hazelwood (she/her) is a blogger, vlogger, and podcaster of writing tips and writerly musings, plus an actively querying fantasy author. Her short story, "Just a Hike In The Woods" was published by the Dark Recesses Webzine. Her essay, "10 Questions To Ask Your Beta Readers" was published in the free kindle book IWSG's Writing For Profit.
Raised by a librarian and fans of speculative fiction, her parents have supported her dreams. When not writing, you can find her devouring book series on her kindle, learning to scroll saw, or feeding her webcomic addiction. She serves on the board for her local science fiction and fantasy convention: Balticon. She is also a voice for Anansi Storytelling – a fairytale audio drama podcast.
Morgan lives and writes in Northern Virginia. Morgan says about WbtR:
I've been a member of Write By the Rails since moving to Manassas in 2018. I am so grateful to the local writing community for the support and the opportunity to share my worlds with others.
Members, we need YOU!
Do you want to ensure WbtR stays vibrant and active? Consider joining our board! We're looking for board Members-At-Large to take on tasks, such as:
- help coordinate events
- vote on decisions that affect members
- assist with newsletters and website updates
Requirements: Board members must be willing to attend at least 50% of all board meetings (currently 6 per year) and help with at least 4 activities per year. Activities could entail assisting with PR, serving on a committee, co-organizing an event, etc. You won't be doing it alone. You'll be part of a team working to serve the local and larger writing community. It's a great way for a motivated writer to get involved and build a literary resume. Want more details? Not ready to be a board member but still want to help? Email writebytherails@gmail.com
Monthly Writers' Enrichment Event
September 11 from noon to 4 p.m. we will be at Arts Alive! displaying our books, reading our work and enjoying the company of artists from around the area. Get details here.
October 8, join us for a FREE half-day writers' retreat at the Virginia State Arboretum! Get details here.
Didn't see our last newsletter?
View and sign up for the Write By the Rails Newsletter here!
WbtR 10-Year Anthology
It's time to Steam Ahead, and that means submitting your stellar work to our anthology! Get your submissions in early for this collection of prose, poetry and art by our membership. Click here for guidelines and submit your writing now!
Spilled Ink
Spilled Ink is an open mic night that celebrates the written word. Join local authors, poets, and scribblers as they read their work. All are welcome to listen or read. The event is held every second and fourth Friday of the month in the evening. Please revise work to a PG-13 rating prior to reading! Visit the Spilled Ink website for details.
Write by the Rails Publications
Confetti
Writing in a time of turmoil takes enormous energy – more so than the usual reservoir of vigor it requires to produce a work of art. Yet, these members of Write by the Rails (WbtR) have done just that, even in the midst of the unrest and uncertainty that characterized 2020 and 2021. Welcome to Confetti, an anthology of diverse written word!
#BackOnTrackNow
In this unique anthology, Write by the Rails showcases Twitter-friendly writings by 22 members and friends who took part in a three-month social media campaign in 2019. #BackOnTrackNow serves as a reflection of the times and an effort to change the discourse of social media.
New Departures
An anthology, New Departures reflects the diverse ideas and creative work of Write by Rails's membership. In this first WbtR publication, members offer poetry, fiction, nonfiction and even a merge of genres.
No Additional Postage Necessary
The product of Write by the Rails's first Rising Writers Workshop for young adults, No Additional Postage Necessary inspires, surprises, amuses and raises some eyebrows, too.
WbtR in the Media
