Celebrating Chai: 18 Authors Share Their Best Writing Advice

As we reach the milestone of chai—18 authors—in our second series of summer posts, I'm reminded of the power of community and shared wisdom in the writing journey. In Hebrew, "chai" symbolizes life, and what better way to breathe life into our craft than by learning from those who have walked the path before us?

This series holds special significance for me, as I've included myself as the 18th author. The number 18 resonates with me on a personal level—it's not just the number of contributors, but also my birthday falls on the 18th of the 8th month. This connection makes this series a true celebration of life and creativity.

In these posts, each author, including myself, offers a piece of advice that has stood the test of time—a do or a don't that has shaped our writing journeys. These insights are the lifeblood of our work, the lessons that have fueled our perseverance and creativity.

Meryl Ain, author of Shadows We Carry, and The Takeaway Men

"Your words are not immortal."

My high school English teacher gave our sophomore class this advice, and I always return to it whether I'm writing fiction or nonfiction. It gave me the understanding that everyone's writing can be improved, and that input from others is valuable. It has enabled me to graciously accept and consider constructive suggestions from editors, friends, and family. 

Annette Gendler, author of Jumping Over Shadows, a Memoir & How to Write Compelling Stories from Family History

1.Get up and write. (Getting up early to write, even though I am not an early bird whatsoever, made it possible for me to complete my first book Jumping Over Shadows while working full-time and being a wife and a mom of three young kids.)

2.There's no such thing as writer's block. Just get on with it.

Ronni Robinson,  Author of Out of the Pantry: A Disordered Eating Journey

The best writing advice I received was to write, write, write, and not worry about organizing the story. Let the words flow out of you and see where they take you, even if you think you know where the story will go.

DO keep an open mind when someone gives you constructive criticism. I know it may feel like someone is criticizing your baby, but good criticism is gold.

Gila Green, author of With A Good Eye & The Inheritance (forthcoming)

The best pieces of advice I have ever received are from author, editor and professor Mark Mirsky. 

"Always expand your body of work." 

"Keep your work in circulation."  Make sure editors are reading your work whether it's essays, short stories, novels. The length doesn't matter. 

I have kept this advice close to my heart and it has always worked for me. As you read through these contributions, I hope you'll find something that resonates with you, whether you're just starting out or have been writing for years. The best advice is timeless, returning to us whenever we need it most, helping us navigate the ever-evolving landscape of writing. If you  missed the first two posts, click here and here.

p.s. How beautiful are these orchids? They are from my own garden and are symbolic flowers in my novel Passport Control.