Redwood Writers
Celebrate California Writers Week
Aspiring writers and poets are invited to celebrate California Writers Week with a free event on October 18, 2023.
Come to the Sonoma Valley Regional Library to bask in the poetry of local authors and learn how Redwood Writers contributes to the craft, marketing, and success of writers.
There will be time for Q&A and admission is free to all.
Judy M. Baker is president of Redwood Writers, the largest chapter of the California Writers Club.
Judy joined Redwood Writers to develop her skills as an author and poet. She became President of the Club in 2022. She has served the group in several capacities including Vice President, chair of Membership, Redwood Writers Academy, a member of the Speaker and Conference Teams. Her tech skills helped the group migrate to online meetings and workshops during lock down.
Redwood Writers continues to innovate as it serves its members with monthly in-person meetings, small groups, and publications.
Redwood Writers offers opportunities for writers of all types to learn, grow, and get published.
The mission of Redwood Writers is "Writers Helping Writers." The club offers many opportunities for new and seasoned writers to be seen and heard. Meetings and membership
Monthly meetings take place in Santa Rosa, California.
For information about meetings and joining the club, go to the club website at https://redwoodwriters.org
California Writers Week
“I write for no other purpose than to add to the beauty that now belongs to me.” - Jack London
In California, a state teeming with diverse landscapes, cultures, and stories, one week in October stands out as a tribute to its literary heroes: California Writers Week. Officially declared by the California Legislature, this week-long celebration aims to encourage and honor writers and the incredible power of storytelling. But did you know the link between this notable event and one of California's most celebrated authors, Jack London?
The Roots of California Writers Week📚
The inception of California Writers Week dates to 2003, thanks to the tireless efforts of the California Writers Club. It's observed every third week of October—a season that mirrors the lifecycle of a writer, vibrant yet reflective. For writers in the state, this week is like the Super Bowl, Wimbledon, and the Oscars all rolled into one magnificent festival of words.
The Indelible Mark of Jack London
Ah, Jack London—the man, the legend, the adventurer. From "The Call of the Wild" to "White Fang," London's work has captivated readers for generations. But his influence goes far beyond his words; it’s woven into the very fabric of California’s literary community. Jack London was among the founding members of the California Writers Club, the organization that later brought California Writers Week into existence.
The Meeting Ground: Redwood Writers
Now, where does Redwood Writers fit into this tapestry? Picture this: A local chapter of the California Writers Club, established in Sonoma County, a region that was once home to Jack London himself. The connection is poetic—London's spirit of adventure, activism, and, of course, writing, lives on in the Redwood Writers community.
The Novice and The Veteran
Imagine a young writer who recently moved to Sonoma County. She joins Redwood Writers, attends meetings and workshops, and, during California Writers Week, gets to read a passage from her work at an anthology launch. Her story is one of the selected for one of the Redwood Writers Anthologies. Sitting in the audience is Tom, a seasoned author, and a lifelong admirer of Jack London. Hearing Sarah's words, Tom is instantly reminded of a young London, full of vigor and fearless ambition. It's a circle of inspiration, perpetuated by the community and celebrated during California Writers Week.
Benefits of Fellowship: Why Redwood Writers?
In Redwood Writers, you don't just find a group; you find a family. It's a space where constructive criticism is a form of affection, and shared victories taste sweeter. Redwood Writers' members enjoy small group events like Writers Circles and Salons. These groups provide opportunities for writers to share their work and forge friendships.
Celebrate with Us
As we commemorate California Writers Week, remember that you're not just celebrating authors of the past; you're celebrating the vibrant community of today's writers. By joining a group like Redwood Writers, you're not just following in the footsteps of literary giants like Jack London; you're paving your own path for future generations to follow.
"In the realm of ideas, everything depends on enthusiasm; in the real world, all rests on perseverance." These words from Goethe find resonance in the vibrant communities that come alive during California Writers Week. Through perseverance and passion, you're not just writing words; you're writing history.
California Writers Week is more than a tribute to our literary heroes. It exists as a celebration of our own stories. Join a community like Redwood Writers, for who knows, the next Jack London might just be among us, waiting for the right community to unleash their potential.
From Ink to Impact: Celebrating Local Sonoma County Authors
In honor of California Writers Week, Judy M. Baker, President of Redwood Writers, is hosting a reading and Q&A about writing and the value of belonging to Redwood Writers. It will be held at the Sonoma Valley Regional Library, 755 West Napa Street, Sonoma, California 95476, from 5:30-7:00 pm. The public is welcome. She will be reading poems from Phases, the 2023 Poetry Anthology published by Redwood Writers Press.
Redwood Writers meets on the third Saturday of the month. Membership information and meeting details are available on the Redwood Writers website: https://redwoodwriters.org.
