There are a lot of really nice people with really criminal tendencies in the Ottawa area. Before you start naming some of the obvious...I'm talking about the members of Capital Crime Writers (CCW).
They come from near and far in the National Capital Region to attend the monthly meetings held at the Library & Archives Canada -- the second Wednesday of each month -- and listen with rapt attention to the speakers. These vary from the amazingly large contingent of published mystery writers who live here to the wonderfully generous professionals about whom we write. The police, fraud investigators, pathologists, lawyers, private investigators, arson experts -- they're happy to share their stories and expertise in aid of authenticity in the mystery novel.
CCW also boasts an outstanding newsletter available to members, with invaluable items about markets, trends, writing techniques and events. This has been one of the most useful member benefits in the association's existence.
Last year, to celebrate its 20th anniversary, Capital Crime Writers undertook a day-long writing event at the Ottawa Public Library. This year, building on the popularity of that celebration, CCW once again is presenting A Day to Kill -- Sat., Oct. 22, 9:30-4:30 at the main branch of the Ottawa Public Library, 120 Metcalfe St. It's free and the public is also invited to join in. The program includes panels, readings and prizes plus a half-day workshop by award-winning author Mary Jane Maffini entitled A Character Building Exercise.
This is one of the strengths of CCW. That there is such a terrific wealth of talented members who are so willing to share their knowledge of the craft. And that's what Capital Crime Writers is all about -- writers sharing with writers, no matter what stage in the writing process you find yourself. It's that opportunity to learn from and to support each other, that makes CCW such a success. And a necessity in this business.
But, isn't that what the Canadian mystery writing scene is all about? Congeniality, support, sharing and, of yes, strong criminal tendencies!
Linda Wiken/Erika Chase
A Killer Read coming April 3, 2012
from Berkley Prime Crime
I think it's going to be a great day!
ReplyDeleteCapital Crime Writers has been an invaluable resource to me and my aspirations to "Write Wrongs". Looking forward to seeing the crime crowd together on the 22nd! Susan
ReplyDeleteNow that I'm going to be a 'part time' Ottawa resident I'm looking forward to rejoining CCW - wish I could come on the 22nd but one of these days I will. Have a great day.
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