Choosing the best YouTube channels for writers can greatly benefit aspiring authors, professional writers, and anyone interested in the craft of writing. YouTube has become a valuable platform for writers to access a wealth of resources, including writing tips, advice from established authors, discussions on storytelling techniques, publishing insights, and much more. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the top YouTube channels for writers, categorizing them based on their focus and content.
1. Writing Advice and Tips Channels:
- Jenna Moreci: Jenna Moreci is a popular author and YouTuber known for her candid advice on writing and self-publishing. Her channel covers topics such as character development, plot structure, world-building, and the writing process. Moreci’s engaging personality and practical tips make her videos valuable resources for writers at any stage of their journey.
- Abbie Emmons: Abbie Emmons is a young adult author who shares writing advice, productivity tips, and insights into the publishing industry on her channel. Her videos often delve into topics like outlining, editing, and finding motivation, providing actionable advice to help writers overcome common challenges.
- Ellen Brock: Ellen Brock is a freelance editor who offers in-depth critiques and analysis of writing samples submitted by viewers. Her channel provides valuable insights into the craft of writing, with a focus on storytelling techniques, narrative structure, and character development.
2. Author Interviews and Writing Process Channels:
- Brandon Sanderson: Brandon Sanderson is a bestselling fantasy author known for his intricate world-building and compelling storytelling. On his channel, Sanderson shares writing lectures from his creative writing courses at Brigham Young University, as well as insights into his own writing process and experiences as an author.
- Writing Excuses: Writing Excuses is a podcast hosted by authors Brandon Sanderson, Mary Robinette Kowal, Howard Tayler, and Dan Wells. The podcast covers a wide range of writing topics, including craft, business, and career advice, with each episode offering valuable insights and practical tips for writers.
- Stephen King’s MasterClass: Stephen King, one of the most prolific and successful authors of our time, offers a MasterClass on writing where he shares his insights into the craft. While not specifically a YouTube channel, King’s MasterClass videos provide invaluable advice and inspiration for writers looking to hone their skills.
3. Publishing and Self-Publishing Channels:
- Reedsy: Reedsy is a platform that connects authors with publishing professionals, and their YouTube channel offers a wealth of resources on writing, editing, publishing, and book marketing. From interviews with industry experts to tutorials on self-publishing, Reedsy’s channel covers all aspects of the publishing process.
- Self-Publishing with Dale: Self-Publishing with Dale is a channel dedicated to helping authors navigate the world of self-publishing. Dale L. Roberts shares practical tips and strategies for self-publishing success, covering topics such as book formatting, cover design, Amazon keywords, and book promotion.
4. Genre-specific Writing Channels:
- iWriterly: iWriterly is run by Meg LaTorre, a writer and former literary agent. Her channel covers various aspects of the writing and publishing process, with a focus on young adult and fantasy genres. LaTorre provides valuable insights into crafting compelling characters, building immersive worlds, and navigating the publishing industry.
- WordNerds: WordNerds is a collaborative channel featuring a group of writers who share their experiences and expertise in different genres, including young adult, fantasy, romance, and mystery. Their videos cover a wide range of topics, from plot brainstorming to querying literary agents, catering to writers with diverse interests.
5. Motivation and Productivity Channels:
- Authortube Write-In: Authortube Write-In is a virtual write-in community where writers gather for live writing sprints, productivity challenges, and accountability sessions. Hosted by multiple authors, this channel provides a supportive environment for writers to stay focused and motivated while working on their projects.
- ShaelinWrites: Shaelin Bishop shares advice on writing, creativity, and productivity on her channel. Her videos often touch on topics like overcoming writer’s block, setting goals, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, offering valuable insights and motivation for writers facing common challenges.
6. Craft-focused Channels:
- Terrible Writing Advice: Terrible Writing Advice is a comedic channel that satirizes common writing tropes and clichés. While the advice given is intentionally bad, the videos offer a humorous take on writing pitfalls and misconceptions, making them both entertaining and informative for writers.
- Lessons from the Screenplay: Lessons from the Screenplay analyzes popular films to uncover storytelling techniques and narrative strategies that writers can apply to their own work. While the focus is on screenwriting, many of the insights are applicable to all forms of storytelling, making this channel a valuable resource for writers.
Conclusion:
The best YouTube channels for writers offer a wealth of resources, advice, and inspiration to help aspiring authors navigate the writing and publishing journey. Whether you’re looking for practical writing tips, insights into the publishing industry, genre-specific advice, or motivation to stay productive, there’s a channel out there to meet your needs. By exploring diverse content and learning from established authors and industry experts, writers can hone their craft, overcome challenges, and ultimately achieve their goals. So, dive into these channels, immerse yourself in the world of writing, and let your creativity soar.
