The Telling Room

?? New Book Alert! ?? It Rains Diamonds on Neptune: Our 20th Anniversary Anthology is almost here! This collection pairs the voices of Telling Room youth with those of established Maine authors writing across genres, identities, experiences, and themes. Powerful stories, poems, essays, and recipes—accompanied by pen and ink illustrations—touch on pressing topics impacting youth today, from climate change, LGBTQ+ identity, gun violence, and racism; to finding community, cultural connections, humor, and hope in unexpected places. ? ? "Witty, authentic, and visual, echoing with grace and deep insight," says National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson. "This anthology invites readers to connect across lines of identity politics, homelessness, religion, and so much more.” ? ? We hope you'll join us for the upcoming book launch on Thursday, May 22nd at 6pm with our partners at Mechanics' Hall. Admission is free (or by suggested $15 donation), with books available for purchase the night-of or in advance. ? ? To register for the book launch and preorder copies, visit: https://lnkd.in/gk3WQ2Vw

Writers who are all grown up—come explore your creative inner child at The Telling Room! The Telling Room Writing Workshop for Adults on March 12th from 6 pm - 7:30 pm will guide participants through an evening of writing, community, and lots of fun. This workshop is open to writers of all experience levels, so bring a friend! Registration is $30. Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. To register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gd_ufinH

We loved having our community of writers who are all grown up come write with us last month, so we’re doing it again. Join us for The Telling Room Writing Workshop for Adults in one week on Wednesday, March 12th from 6pm - 7:30pm. This evening for all experience levels will be filled with guided writing prompts, entertaining games, pizza, and a little Telling Room magic. Registration is $30. Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. ? To register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gd_ufinH

Our circle of support is growing—and here's where you fit in! Even donating $5 each month helps The Telling Room a lot: You're providing sustaining support we can count on. Consider it your own personal subscription service to powering the creativity, confidence, and community of our youth. And, you'll get good news from The Telling Room, discounts on books, and other goodies by signing up for Circle Up! ? ? To start giving monthly and to learn more, visit: https://lnkd.in/gaNmAVZX

We had so much fun with our first Telling Room Writing Workshop for Adults that we’re bringing it back—this time with more writing, games, and pizza! This workshop for adults of any experience level will guide participants through a series of structured short writing prompts and allow them to experience the excitement of The Telling Room. The workshop will take place on Wednesday, March 12th from 6 pm - 7:30 pm in our Portland studio. Registration is $30. Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. To register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gd_ufinH

Back by popular demand, our next Telling Room Writing Workshop for Adults will take place Wednesday, March 12th from 6pm - 7:30pm! This workshop for grown-up writers of all experience levels will offer a chance to experience The Telling Room and learn what it is all about. The joyful evening will guide participants through a series of structured short writing prompts, offer a chance to meet fellow Telling Room community members, and we will (of course) provide both pizza and seltzer. ? ? Registration is $30. Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. To register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gd_ufinH

How lucky are we to live in a state with the second most bookstores per capita? Lots of love to these local independent bookstores who support our mission, authors, and community! https://lnkd.in/gMyn_iv7

2025 Statewide Writing Contest Grand Prize Winner Molly Trainor sat down with The Bangor Daily News this week to talk writing and what inspired their winning essay, "Survival of the Flawed." ? ? “Things aren’t always going to be perfect, and you can’t hold yourself to that perfect standard all the time,” Trainor said, who studies at John Bapst Memorial High School. “That’s something I’m trying to get better at because I’m such a perfectionist by nature, which can be a detriment in some cases.”? ? Congrats again to Molly! Get the full story at: https://lnkd.in/g2S2syUz

Although The Telling Room focuses on youth voices, we believe that writing is a tool that can enrich anyone’s life. To honor and celebrate this, we are hosting a writing workshop for grown-ups!? This memorable evening in January will allow workshop participants to dive into their creativity, learn about The Telling Room’s writing philosophy, forge new connections, and to put it simply, play! The workshop will provide an opportunity to think, talk, and write—creating a first-hand experience of the magic that goes on in our writing studio. ? Registration Fee: $30 Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. For more information and to register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gM_RQiKU

Are you an adult who has always wondered what goes on behind the scenes at The Telling Room? Maybe, you’re an alum who wants to write in our studio again? Or maybe you are just a lover of all things writing? No matter who you are, now is the time to experience The Telling Room firsthand!? ? This January 29th, join us for a playful and creative writing workshop. The evening filled with food, fun, and writing will allow participants to think, talk, and write with our unique Telling Room approach. There will be activities, chances to make connections, and a discussion of our writing philosophy. We hope to see you there!? ? Registration Fee: $30? Students (18 and older) receive a 50% discount. For more information and to register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gM_RQiKU