Nov. 18, from 6 - 7 p.m. EST

The important first step to writing is to get your thoughts on the page. But when your draft is complete, a critical eye for big-picture components is crucial in the revision process, when your story begins to take shape.

In this workshop led by New York Writing Room editing coach Johanie Martinez Coolz, we'll draw on the core principles of developmental editing — genre, pacing, worldbuilding, character development and theme — to finalize the story structure of your manuscript before it goes to the line editing and copy editing phases.

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Friday, Nov. 20 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Celebrate the stories and photos captured by local high school students part of The Detroit Writing Room Journalism Camp and Coaching Detroit Forward’s Photography Camps! The 2026 edition of Perspectives Magazine will be released at this event. The magazine features the students' stories focused on community news, health, social justice and education as well as students' photos of downtown Detroit, nature, people, events and more.

Photos by the students will be on display and auctioned; proceeds will be split between the student and Coaching Detroit Forward to support future programs. Enjoy appetizers and drinks while admiring the students' work.

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March 19, June 16, Sept. 15 and Dec. 8

7 - 8 p.m. EST

Pen & Persistence is a space for writers who understand that the hardest part of the writing journey isn’t the craft but everything that comes with it.

Writers will come together not to workshop or critique, but to support one another through the doubts, anxieties, rejections and to celebrate the small victories. Whether you’re stuck, waiting for that acceptance email, or trying to make time for the page amid a busy life, this is a place to commiserate, listen and remember that you don’t have to carry the writing journey alone.

Led by writer Della Cassia, the group will meet quarterly in-person, with additional Zoom meetings in-between. Free for DWR members. General admission is $20 per event.

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April 30 - May 2, 2027

Our third annual retreat will use nature as inspiration! Writers will spend time outdoors in unique Detroit spaces and learn how to weave nature into writing to enhance their storytelling. We’ll meander through iconic Detroit landscapes and taste some of the best flavors the Motor City has to offer.

This generative retreat is open to writers of all genres and experience levels. Coach Lynne Golodner offers focused instruction — with readings, writing prompts and writing time — in a supportive environment.

Apply to attend by Jan. 15