When I joined Heard Word, I was terrified to read my work aloud. It brought me back to my days at Kimbolton School, where I once had to perform a poem in a grand hall in the Castle—filled with very important people, including a soon-to-be prime minister. Standing there, I was petrified that I’d mess up the timing of my line in “Spring, the Sweet Spring” by Thomas Nashe. I was sure I’d miss my cue or jumble the words “the cuckoo, twit-a-woo”. I can still remember how much my kneecaps wobbled! That memory stuck with me throughout my school years. In addition, my last job had left me feeling unheard, making the thought of reading my work aloud absolutely terrifying.
But, after the first session, I found the Heard Word group a supportive and welcoming space where my nerves faded. I realised that any laughter was because people genuinely connected with the humour in my stories, and that felt good. Now, reading aloud feels natural, and my favourite feedback was when I was described as “prolific;” it genuinely made me giggle. Constructive feedback has helped me improve my stories, from plot development to character depth and pacing.
Listening to the featured writers each week brings a fresh voice and perspective. I have gained so much information, from how to create graphic novels to tips from others’ self-publishing journeys.
When other writers present their work, it is great to hear new stories, ones I would never have read or listened to before. This has helped me diversify my own writing because who doesn’t want to read a comedy about an Etsy Serial Killer or an Under the Sea Retirement Home? I’ve learned so much about storytelling, and I think I’ve grown significantly as a writer from going along each week.
In addition, Heard Word has introduced me to a fantastic community of writers who are happy to share encouragement, ideas, technology, and other ways to get involved. Some have become great friends. I’m so grateful to be part of this fantastic community. I recommend it to anyone looking for a well-organised and inspiring writing group. I genuinely miss it when it is on hiatus!
Abbey Woolgar is a writer and storyteller whose work celebrates humour, resilience, and the joy of human connection. She is the author of Just Another Mum, a heartfelt and witty account of parenting twins on the autistic spectrum, and a collection of children’s stories designed to connect with a wide range of audiences.
Her recent self-published projects include Argonaut – His Second Mission, a children’s book about a therapy dog spreading joy and rekindling happy memories, and Abysmal Octogenarians, a comedic serial released weekly on Wattpad. She also created the Spin Cycle Squad, a delightfully quirky series where kitchen appliances take centre stage—yes, including a talking washing machine!
Born in Bedfordshire and now living in Milton Keynes, Abbey is passionate about crafting stories that bring laughter to readers of all ages.