A Writerly Advent Calendar - Window No. 24

I thought I'd leave this one until last because it's the best one of all. It's also free. You don't need to spend any money to buy this gift for your writerly friend.

As writers, what we often need is someone to listen, not necessarily to our work (although on occasion we would love to read aloud to you) but rather to have someone to throw ideas around with. Your opinion as a reader is incredibly valuable but your outlook on life can also be a lifesaver. Will this storyline work? Is this a good place to start? Would jelly actually do that in zero gravity?

Writing is mainly a solitary business. We writers can become blinkered to life out there in the real world and whether the words we're planting on the page actually work. We need outside input and interaction.

So next time you see your writerly friend, or speak to them on the phone, why not ask if there's anything you can do to help? It could be as simple as a cup of tea to chat. Whatever it is, it's sure to be appreciated.