June 2025 Newsletter
Hello Writers!
Welcome back to the newsletter!
This month we're featuring Lucas Schwaller, a member of the ReWrites critique group. Lucas is the author of The Third Sunday of Every June, his debut novel, which is being published by Orange Hat. His short fiction has appeared in both print and online literary magazines and anthologies, often exploring themes of memory, belonging, and the quiet complexities of American life. A Missouri native who now calls Wisconsin home, Lucas writes stories rooted in the Midwest and shaped by the relationships that both bind and break us. He frequently collaborates with fellow MVWG member and Minnesota Book Award finalist David Nash. Together, they have released two short stories and have a novel in the works. Outside of writing, Lucas coaches youth hockey, raises two children with his wife in La Crosse, and serves as a Senior Vice President for a national wealth management firm. You can learn more about him and his work at www.leschwaller.com.
Keep reading for your monthly Motivation, News from the Guild, Writing Prompt, and Guild Events!
Motivation
This month’s motivation is from Jami Attenberg, who is hosting the 8th year of #1000wordsofsummer. If you’d like to learn more and join her in writing 1000 words per day until June 13, check out her Substack.
“Today you will write 1000 words. Because you're a writer, pure and simple. You've always known this about yourself. Even if you haven't always embraced it or perhaps have been hesitant to commit to your writing, it has always been inside of you. That curious, energetic, thoughtful part of yourself that simply will not be satisfied until you process the world with your words. And now you’re here, and you're ready to tend to it. Tend to yourself. To heed the call. To write 1000 words a day. Starting now.”
Send your motivational memes, tips, tricks, and resources to mvwguild@gmail.com
Victory! News from the Guild
Join us in congratulating ReWrites member Lucas Schwaller on the release of his debut novel, The Third Sunday of Every June. His book is a bold exploration of friendship, fatherhood, and the messy pursuit of identity. Set in St. Louis, the story follows Brett Corwin and Julian Reyes, two privileged young men trying to navigate life without the guidance of fathers. When Julian learns he’s about to become a father, he spirals into denial, leaving Brett to wrestle with loyalty, guilt, and the weight of their shared past. What follows is a whirlwind of comedic misadventures as the two stumble through the complexities of growing up, grappling with their sense of manhood, and coming to terms with what it really means to be a man in a world that hasn’t exactly prepared them for the role.
Pre-orders can be made on his website or directly through Orange Hat Publishing.
Have a victory you want to share? Let us know!
Writing Prompt
This month’s prompt is also from Jami Attenberg’s Craft Talk Substack.
“And if you need a little writing prompt to start your day, why not think about the first time you can remember loving writing, feeling like it intrigued you, or that it might be something you’re good at? A spark or an incident that was the starting point to a lifelong connection with writing. You never know where it will lead when you write about your past.”
Guild Events
Social Media Event
When: Sunday, June 29th, 6 p.m.
Where: Zoom (link will be shared when you register; $15 for members, $25 for non-members)
What: Ever feel like creating videos for social media is way out of your comfort zone? Karlyn Ankrom, CEO of Oh Snap! Social, is here to change that with her Stop The Imposter Monster: Video Confidence Booster workshop. Whether you’ve never hit record or you’ve dabbled but feel stuck, Karlyn will guide you through a step-by-step roadmap to confidently creating short-form video content that stops the scroll and engages your audience. This session is packed with practical, easy-to-follow techniques to help you shake off self-doubt, find your authentic voice on camera, and create videos that feel natural, not forced. If you’re ready to boost your video confidence and start showing up the way your brand deserves, this is the workshop for you!
Summer Member Social
When: Wednesday, August 6th, 5-8 p.m.
Where: Onalaska (address will be shared when you register)
What: Join us for pizza and a social! Bring your own beverage and an appetizer or dessert to share. Guests who are interested in joining the guild are welcome!
Help us plan more events by completing the member survey!
Other Events
What: Wisconsin Writers Association Fall Conference
When: October 3 & 4, 2025
Where: Stevens Point, WI
For more information and to register, go to https://wiwrite.org/October-WWA-Fall-Conference-2025
Not a Member? Join Here
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