How to find free mentoring

by Rachel
(US)

I am a currently a high school senior and working on a HUGE project in which I would like to write a full length novel.

Ever since I was in middle school (or younger) reading and writing have been my passion, so it only seems fitting that I get started on the writing process now. My only question is, how can I find someone who would be willing to help me through it with just a few emails over the next six months, free of charge? I'm not asking for a whole mentoring process, I know that costs money. ;) Once again, thank you for your time!

ANSWER

Hello Rachel. Congratulations on your interest in writing a novel! If you want someone to help you with free personalized advice on your novel, you should look for help at your school, or ask at your public library if they have a writer in residence. A writer in residence is paid to speak to people from the community and so will advise you without cost.

You will also find plenty of free advice online, on sites such as Wattpad or My Writers Circle.

However, if you are looking for knowledgeable, professional advice, you should not necessarily expect to get it for free, any more than you would expect a plumber or dentist to work for free. Professional writers must charge for their work so they can survive in just the same way all professionals must charge for their services.

Instead, look for writers in residence who have already been paid to provide the service, or if you are really serious, save up and invest in yourself.