Writer FAQ

How can I apply for the main mentoring program?

We send out an open call for submissions every spring for our main mentorship program. Please check back then, or sign up for our mailing list.

I'm working on a novel. Can I submit a chapter of it in order to be considered for the program?

We discourage chapters or excerpts from longer work because the idea behind the mentorship program is that writers will complete it with a finished piece ready for submission to journals, magazines, and for possible inclusion in TOK: Writing the New Toronto.

Is everyone who is accepted into the program published in TOK?

No, being considered for TOK is a separate and optional process. Due to space constraints not all pieces can be published in TOK.


Getting Published

The literary industry is a very competitive marketplace and publishers get unsolicited manuscripts daily, so if you’re looking to get published, it’s best to do a lot of research. Below are a few links to get you started. Please also visit our Writer Resource Wiki and Forum where you can find the latest resources, contribute to discussions or add new helpful information for other writers.

The Writer's Craft

The basic ingredients for improving your craft are read a lot, write a lot, and get good feedback a lot. But sometimes we also need a little bit more structure or guidance. The following are some links to various resources you may find useful in helping you take your writing where you want it to go.

Writer's Union Programs:

The Banff Centre Programs:

Playwright Development units:

College and University Programs and courses:

Wiki and Forum

Please also visit our Writer Resource Wiki and our Diaspora Dialogues Forum for other topics related to improving your craft.

Finances

Below are some links to resources useful when seeking out funding, employment, career and business management ideas.

Please also visit our Writer Resource Wiki and our Diaspora Dialogues Forum for other topics related to finances.