2012 Missouri Writers Guild Conference: "Now is the Best Time to Be a Writer!"

The Missouri Writers Guild 2012 Annual Conference, "Write Time! Write Place! Write Now!" was held on April 20 through April 22nd at the Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center in Chesterfield, Missouri. Over 135 writers attended the multi-faceted conference that featured opportunities for writers of all levels, including practical sessions on copyright law and the agent/client relationship.

An array of agents and editors were on hand to take manuscript pitches. Award-winning author, Claire Cook, author of the book, Must Love Dogs, which was adapted for film, starring John Cusack and Diane Lane, shared her journey to the Red Carpet at the luncheon on Saturday.

The Show-Me Spotlight Awards Banquet on Saturday evening featured keynote speaker, Writer's Digest author, Christina Katz. The theme of her keynote address, "There's Never Been a Better Time to be a Writer!" permeated the conference, as speaker after speaker noted the changes and the uncertainty in the publishing industry. The things that won't change, Katz emphasized, are the level of excellence required for publication, the integral role of social media in an effective marketing plan, and the fact that a superior product will always sell.

Regardless of the business in question, these are solid principles; but, wait a minute, is writing a "business?"  Yes! An author may find that the road to publication has a few more potholes, and self-promotion is the norm, not the exception. Writing has never been an occupation for the faint of heart.  But, for those who dream of publishing their dreams, there's never been a better time to be a writer.