Reading and writing are sure ways to improve your craft. Innovative writing workshops are a great way to take your skills to the next level.

Veteran writers know that the way to keep selling is through continual growth. Writing group founder and author, Diana L. Guerrero has found some innovative ways to help her fellow scribes.

Guerrero is the founder and facilitator of the Alliance of Writers. Launched in 2000, this mixed genre writers group got so big she had to open a second chapter. Now in its fourth year, Guerrero has changed direction again. She will offer innovative workshops and seminars that will be open to writers across the globe.

"The Alliance of Writers is dynamic. Every year we assess the group and determine the direction for the following year. The demand for a good support structure with elements to catalyze growth is huge. So this fall we will begin to offer teleseminars that can be attended by writers worldwide."

If you are a writer living in the southern California area you can participate in a dynamic workshop filled with motivated writers and spearheaded by a notable author or editor.

Guerrero will facilatate, "Writing Fiction, Taking the Plunge" this year. The 2004 workshop was taught by Mike Foley at the Moose Lodge community room, 39211 North Shore Drive in Fawnskin, California on July 18, 2004. Check back for the new deadline for  enrollment in 2005.

This writing workshop covers all the basics of fiction writing. Writers will take home a wealth of information and network with other writers. Topics to be covered include: viewpoint, dialogue, action, description, characters, and more.

Participants will receive valuable handouts and writing exercises, learn tips on submitting material, handling rejection and other important tidbits. This event begins promptly at 10am. Attendees will have a break for lunch and then get back to work. Instruction ends at 3pm, but you'll want to continue networking after.

Guerrero said, "Mike's workshops normally run hundreds of dollars. He agreed to do this for $59 to benefit the local creative community. Don't miss it if you are a local author."

So far this year the Alliance workshops have included a magazine writing workshop taught by Writer's Digest instructor Rita S. Robinson. The next one will be held for the California Writers Club in August.

Complete details and electronic enrollment can be found at www.allianceofwriters.com, or call the Alliance business line at (800) 818-7387. 

If you would like workshop and teleseminar notices please sign up for Diana L. Guerrero's newsletter here at authorsden.com.

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Mike Foley works as a journalist, freelance writer and editor. With a wide variety of experience and over 700 published works, he has a wealth of knowledge to share. He runs Writer's Review (a critique service), teaches writing for the UC-Riverside Extension, and conducts writing retreats.

Diana L. Guerrero hosts writing workshops across southern California. She is contributing editor to Crisis Management in Zoos and Animal Care Facilities (American Association of Zoo Keepers, 1999), and author of What Animals Can Teach Us about Spirituality: Inspiring Lessons of Wild and Tame Creatures (SkyLight Paths, 2003). Her articles have appeared in zoological trade journals, pet industry publications and magazines throughout the world.