✍️ (Writing) Community Focus: Why I Love Julie Hedlund's 12x12 Challenge
This is the second in a series of posts about various writing communities I am a part of, both free and paid. Each one has unique features, and I hope by showing you why I'm a member of each, you might find one (or more!) that fits your needs and interests. :) It is not meant to be an all-encompassing list and only reflects my own experience(s). I am not being paid or renumerated in any way for these opinions.
From the 12x12 Challenge website:
"12 x 12 is a year-long writing challenge where members aim to write 12 complete picture book drafts, one per month, for each of the 12 months of the year. A draft means a story with a beginning, middle, and end – NOT a submission-ready piece. "
I've been a Shel Silverstein level member of 12x12 since January of 2021; joining this year at this level runs $187 for first-timers (you get a discount if you are renewing). For me, who focuses on picture book writing predominately, the price is certainly worth it, though I should point out that there are scholarships available for those who qualify, too! Also, please be aware there are several free 12x12 resources you can take advantage of, whether you are a paid member or not (see below).
Here's why I find it valuable:
Webinars and Book Chats. How good are the webinars? Well, I know many writers who join each year strictly for those. They are picture-book specific and, without fail, excellent--covering a range of topics each year and always with replays (in case you can't make them live). NOTE: you don't have to be a paying member to take advantage of the Book Chats! Sign up here.
Critique Forums. The 12x12 Forum has so much, I think some people find it daunting, with specialty critique areas set aside for rhyme, queries, and more. I mainly use it for the Full Manuscript Critiques section. Each time you post, you are asked to do at least three other critiques in return; this is not just fair, it's good practice for you. (Truly.) The people giving you feedback are other members, and just like anything in life, your mileage may vary--some critiques will be better than others. Still, I've found them super helpful, particularly when you need "fresh" eyes on something you've already shared with your regular critique groups. The fact that they are 24/7 doesn't hurt, either!
Not just paying lip service to diversity and inclusion. Judge for yourself, of course, but I've been very impressed by the 12x12 leadership and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee on these important, and pressing, matters.
The Blog. Honestly, I think the 12x12 blog is an overlooked (and jam-packed) resource--and it's another one that is open to everyone, for free. Besides monthly featured author write-ups, there are many "How I Got an Agent" posts, and monthly Featured Agent overviews. So while you won't get the "above the slushpile" submission opportunities with those agents without being a Gold (Little Golden Book) level member, you can still learn about them and apply your findings on your own. I try to read every post, tbh.
Ninja Visit. Once a year, so long as you post to the critique forums, you'll get a surprise "Ninja Visit" from a professional, published (or under contract) picture book author. It's important to note that, like any critique, the notes in these visits are subjective! Still, having this experienced feedback for no additional charge is a wonderful (and unique) feature of 12x12.
Overall, 12x12 is very "choose your own adventure." Some people only choose to use parts of their membership--and there's no shame in that! But like all writing communities, it's a DIY experience--no one's going to "check in" on you individually to see/notice if you are writing a new draft each month, going to the webinars, etc. Instead, it's all based on: the honor system, tools, inspiration and support. For me, a former Girl Scout, the monthly badges on the site work well to motivate me to finish that draft I've had languishing, but you may find this site works better if you pair up with a buddy (or two) for an extra kick in the pants. (That is, if you want that!)
If 12x12 isn't your thing after all this (hey, not everyone wants to write picture books), no worries. Over the coming weeks and months, I'll be doing a whole series on other options I have found extremely valuable. Tune in for more. :)
Yours in community,
Elayne
See others in this series:
✍️ (Writing) Community Focus: Why I Love SCBWI--the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators
✍️ (Writing) Community Focus: Why I Love Twitter — NOTE: written before Elon made it weird (and not in a good way)
My posts are always free, but my focus isn't; if you found this post interesting or useful, please consider ♡’ing it so I know. Thank you!