If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.

 As I work on the craft of novel writing, I find myself following the advice quoted above. 

While an author may write in isolation, it is very helpful to have other authors to talk with,

to get advice from, and to be each other's cheerleaders.

A writer may be on an island, but there are many other islands near by.

Many within yelling distance!

I have been fortunate enough to learn from the following wonderful authors.