New!

The 2008 Student Writing Contest – presented by James River Writers, the Richmond Times-Dispatch, and the Library of Virginia. Congratulations to our 2008 winners! Read the winning essays.

The Best Unpublished Novel Contest, co-sponsored with Richmond magazine, announces the 2008 winners.  Read more here.

Save these dates for JRW Conference 2008:
Friday and Saturday, October 10-11, 2008

JRW is making a difference

James River Writers has been honored twice in Central Virginia. In September, 2006, we were among the recipients of the 2006 Theresa Pollak Prize for excellence in the arts, awarded by Richmond magazine. In its January 31, 2007, issue, Style Weekly recognized the founding of James River Writers as one of the pivotal moments in the past quarter-century of Richmond Arts. We wouldn't have received these recognitions without the fantastic support of our members and corporate sponsors. Thank you, Virginia!

Writers Wednesdays

happens every second Wednesday at Richbrau Brewing Company's TapHouse Grill in historic Shockoe Slip, 1212 East Cary Street. Get together with fellow Richmond-area writers in all stages and genres for a casual evening of socializing and shop talk. 5:30-7:30 PM. Parking after 4 PM is $3.00 behind the Tobacco Company (enter the deck from 12th Street between Canal and Cary Streets).

JRW CONFERENCE 2007

Here's what participants said about Conference 2007:

"There was an amazing balance of professional writers (accessible -- thank you) and aspiring authors on all levels. The energy level buoys the spirit."

"A wonderful experience of community and scholarship."

"Being a new writer, I felt that this first conference was very beneficial. I heard a good combination of the business of book writing as well as the craft."

"Gone is the image of writer as recluse!"

I've spoken at numerous conferences over the years, and generally expect writers to possess wildly varying degrees of skill; however, the JRW Conference attracts a consistently and impressively high caliber of talent. But what makes it truly unique is that the JRW organizers graciously and generously open their homes and hearts to the presenters. They prove that Southern hospitality is no myth!
-- Marcela Landres, Editorial Consultant

For more information about Conference 2007, click here.