National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo, is a annual writing project that takes place during the month of November.

Each year, people all around the world attempt to write a 50,000 word novel during the month of November. The annual event was founded by Chris Baty on July 21, 1999, only 21 years ago.  While only 21 people participated in its first year, NaNoWriMo has grown to host and inspire hundreds of thousands of people annually. Baty moved the event from July to November to take advantage of the miserable weather during the month.

“We really believe that this is an event dedicated to encouraging writing,” Baty stated during the 2012 Crossroads Writers Conference.

At Osceola School for the Arts, students in the Creative Writing Department are challenged with writing a novel by the end of November as well. Depending on the grade, students will be given a goal as to how many words they must write by month’s end. For example, 6th graders receive a 10, 000 word goal, while 9th graders receive a hefti ofer goal 25,000. Students are given a few days to prepare and storyboard their ideas. Then, on November 1, creative writers start their word goal challenge.

NaNoWriMo is a great opportunity for writers to challenge themselves. It is a way for people to test their creative writing skills and a fun way to pass the time in November. Visit the NaNoWriMo official website at www.nanowrimo.org to have your story told.