Writing Advice for Teens by Mike Kalmbach

The second Tuesday of the month is the group’s 'formal' meeting at the Rochester Public Library, which Kalmbach describes as a 'wonderful partner.' Typically eight to 10 writers submit writing a week prior to the meeting.

The aim of the group is to support one another in a friendly environment. Some writers are relatively new, others have published many works. Membership is comprised of a mix of experience. With approximately 125 members, the group meets twice per month. In addition to strong leadership, the organization thrives because of active membership. In his role as leader/facilitator, Kalmbach brings a wealth of knowledge to the Rochester MN Writers Group. His most recent publication, 'Writing Advice for Teens: Editing Stories,' while directed at teens, has guidance that is applicable to all writers. His current position as a senior analyst/programmer at Mayo Clinic 'exercises (his) tech side' while his writing balances out the creative side.Īs a writer, Kalmbach attempts to produce at least 500 to 1,000 words per day. Kalmbach went on to earn a degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in software engineering. Kalmbach’s writing experience began in second grade, when he 'made (his) first book attempt.' The story bore a resemblance to the Boxcar Children, thus giving him 'an introduction to copyright law at an early age.'

While she is still actively involved, with other obligations to tend to Chen handed the reins to local author Mike Kalmbach, who has facilitated the group since 2009. While some may view writing as a solitary endeavor, many writers yearn to connect with others during the process. From first drafts to published novels, our city’s writers are busy creating. Rochester may be known as a medical town, but our community is bursting with writers.

Writing Advice for Teens by Mike Kalmbach