‘With few exceptions, writers don’t figure out their plots on the first attempt, whether they’re sitting down and plotting it out in advance or figuring it out as they draft. Plotting is a skill that requires an understanding of the mechanics of story, and that will develop as you apply yourself to the task of writing and rewriting.’

‘Children are on the cusp of their lives, they’re only just setting out on their own grand adventures. To offer possibility and hope in our stories can inspire and empower children for the rest of their lives. What an honour for a writer to have this chance.’

Check out some of the wonderful literary events happening in Sydney and around NSW (and online) this January!

‘Sometimes we resist an idea because it doesn’t feel original or brilliant enough, but it’s only when you commit to it, and spend some time exploring it, that you find your connection, start inhabiting it, and then the magic starts to happen.’

Check out some of the wonderful literary events happening in Sydney and around NSW (and online) this December!

‘The more you pitch, the more comfortable you become with rejection, with no response, and with pitching again. Editors want to hear from you, and rejection is never personal!’

It’s perfectly fine if you’re not writing at the moment and if you don’t write anything ever again.

Check out some of the wonderful literary events happening in Sydney and around NSW (and online) this November!

Phillipa McGuinness joined First Friday to share her insights about what it’s like to edit a major literary magazine, life inside one of NSW’s most venerable literary institutions and what she’s learned in her years in publishing.