MIAMI OFF THE PAGE

Over a decade ago, a group of aspiring writers got together to share their prose with others in a “safe” environment, meaning with other women who would critique their work without judging the content or personal revelations. We called ourselves the Women Writers Group “WWG” of South Beach. Women writers joined us at different times in varied locations. As a friendly group, our focus was and still is to encourage each other to WRITE. To write whatever is of interest to the writer. As a result, being from different backgrounds, ages, lifestyles and experiences, we entertain one another with our stories, some sad, some inspiring, and some funny. And we “gently” critique the writing – and learn how to be better communicators.

So, with great enthusiasm, the Women Writers Group (WWG) of South Beach made the decision to write an anthology – “Miami off the page …” – a collection of short stories about experience(s) that took place in Miami. It was arduous work. It was fully a group collaboration liberally peppered with diplomatic meetings, participants making their opinions heard and bringing appropriate talents to work.

Over the years, our meeting locations changed. With gratitude, we’ve enjoyed the hospitality offered to us by Arts at St. Johns, Miami Beach Jewish Community Center (JCC), the Betsy Hotel, and the Capital One Cafe on Lincoln Road.

And thank you to the WWG writers who took on the tasks required to make this Book a reality. Pam Mayer, who kept things running until it took off. René Tastet, who relieved Pam for the final push over the line. Linda Winters, Dena Stewart, Marj O’Neil Butler, Darlene Frennette, Mandy Urena, Joyce Zaritsky, and Pat Kaneda, who edited and conformed each and every story. Irene Sperber, who designed the creatively colorful cover and interior graphic design. Beatrice Rosioru Demirdjian Ross, who set up a Facebook Page. Dena Stewart, Joyce Zaritsky, Darlene Frenette, and René Tastet, who handled the practical research involved with publishing. Terry Tracht, who provided us with a poem of emotional support. And all the other writers in the Women Writers Group of South Beach who contributed their original stories to “Miami off the page …”.

So, with “Miami off the page …” a fait accompli, available on Amazon (Kindle and Paperback), the Women Writers Group of South Beach now looks forward to the arduous task of writing our next anthology of short stories. Subject to be determined … soon!

“Miami Off The Page” contains short pieces, ranging from one to almost ten pages. The 26 pieces are fast reading, written from the heart, and relatable and these writers – whose short bios are included at the end — are to be congratulated for their group effort. So, good for them, and good reading for anyone living in South Beach and interested in the experiences of others who live here.” Jo Manning – Author and Book Reviewer for MiamiArtZine.com