A successful season of AWC summer readarounds came to an end last night with the final stop on our tour of Ayrshire. Susan welcomed the group on a glorious summer evening with golden light streaming in through the windows, illuminating seven hardy members ready to share their creativity. 
Like all of the readarounds this summer, various new pieces of writing were shared. Some common themes emerged. Two members read chapters from novels currently being working on. The questions that followed focussed on planning. One member knew exactly where she was going and had a well-constructed timeline and had developed a scrapbook of ideas for each chapter. The other member declared she is a ‘pantster,’ working out the story as she goes along. However, as the discussion progressed, it was discovered that notes of ideas were collected before deciding later where they would fit in. Other members discussed the benefit of walking in nature as a good way to plan in their head. Some have recorded ideas in their phones while out and about.
Two members asked for the group’s help. Where should they go next? Is it worth persevering? The group were only too happy to provide some ideas and direction.
An interesting discussion developed about writing to improve personal skills and help was provided by the group to improve an ending or where to go next with their writing. All immensely helpful.
Two pieces, a short story and the early ideas for a sketch, led to a discussion about performance and whether these pieces were suitable for particular audiences.
A lot of ground was covered, and refreshments were definitely needed!
Thanks to everyone who has attended a readaround this summer. Each one has been so helpful and inspirational. Thanks to all of the hosts for giving their time to accommodate so many writers. Around twenty-two members have attended at least one readaround, with some enthusiastic folk supporting each one. Thanks to one and all.
Fiona Johnson