If you want to be successful in creative writing, the first and best way is to read good literature. Read compelling novels. Read short stories and poems in high quality journals. You can find a list of high quality journals below.

Write a lot. Subject your writing to criticism. Revise. Rinse and repeat. Learn to accept criticism as part of the process, not a statement on your skill or character. It's learning, it's not personal.

Research the lit mags on this site so see which ones match your voice and your subject matter. The list on this site is not exhaustive: there are thousands of lit mags. These ones have been curated as they have higher acceptance rates and (many) cater to younger writers.

It takes time to hone your craft, to find your voice, and to learn the ropes of publishing. It takes courage to spill your words, emotions, and invite others to feast on them. It takes a LONG time to research lit mags, submit, and hear back. A number of lit mags provide feedback.

You will be denied. It's not a statement on your skill or character. Journals have different tastes and objectives, and many times these tastes are vague and subjective. It hurts. Be strong. Keep pushing.

Litbug lets you search for all of the writing (creative writing mostly, but also journalism) programs available. These include summer and school-year, in-person and remote options. Many offer financial aid.

If you've completed one or more of these programs, please leave an honest review for others.

Litbug (soon) lets you search for teen writing competitions. The best known (in the US) are Scholastic and YoungArts, but there are many more. Be careful about sending your pieces to competitions AND publications at the same time - read the rules carefully. Most want "first rights" meaning they want to be the first to publish your piece. For most (many), however, the rights transfer back to you either immediately or after a short time.

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