Open Pages, Open Doors:
Making NaNoWriMo Accessible to All

Embarking on the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) journey of storytelling is a passion shared by writers of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. In this 30-day narrative stretch, winning NaNoWriMo, crossing the finish line to rip through the 50,000-word ribbon, stands as a shining beacon, beckoning storytellers to weave their tales. Yet, within the realms of this challenge, barriers to accessibility can loom. For some of us, we can see the castle at the peak of the mountain, but there is a dense, uncharted forest that stands between us and the hidden treasures of creativity. This blog will shine a light on the accessibility obstacles that can hinder writers from fully participating in this creative marathon. By acknowledging both the efforts to foster inclusivity and the challenges that remain, we can collectively work toward ensuring that the magic of storytelling is available to all who wish to partake.  Awareness inside and outside the disabled community is not the only barrier for some.  Some participants may face barriers to participation, lack of access to writing resources, or limited internet access for online events.

Physical, Hearing, & Visual Disabilities

JLNICH blog beats article, Open Pages, Open Doors: Making NaNoWriMo Accessible to All. image for common disabilities, keyboard with wheel chair, hearing, and blind keys

When people think about accessibility, they might only think about visual, hearing, or physical disabilities. While website performance or accessible equipment like non-keyboard computers or screen readers can reduce technology issues for these groups, it does not eradicate all levels. Video or audio formats for write-ins or podcasts can be adapted for the hearing impaired but does not eliminate all levels of hearing loss.

And what about NonNovel Forms?  NaNoWriMo’s name suggests a focus on novel writing, which may exclude writers of poetry, screenplays, and other creative forms.  NaNoWriMo has taken pains to help with this one, allowing the goal of the challenge to be broad and generic.  We writers are selecting our own style, genre, and writing projects thanks to the creative website design at nanowrimo.org. 

But still, barriers prevail.  Some common walls to leap are financial concerns with obtaining writing software, reading resources, or attending workshops and conferences that may be impossible for some. Language barriers or learning disabilities can cause understanding issues or reduced participation in critical discussions.  Participants in remote or underserved areas may have limited access to computers, much less a month-long NaNoWriMo challenge. Some writers are just too busy with complex working schedules, multiple commitments, or caregiving responsibilities and they struggle to find the time needed to meet those daily word count goals. While still, another area of growing concern is the mental health of writers dealing with anxiety or depression, who may find stress and pressure overwhelming, potentially affecting their participation.

JLNICH blog beats article, Open Pages, Open Doors: Making NaNoWriMo Accessible to All. barriers exist, metal disabilities.

Recognize Barriers Exist

NaNoWriMo and its participants need to recognize barriers exist and we must work collectively to address them. NaNoWriMo has made efforts to be more inclusive, but there’s always room for improvement. Participants need to share their feedback and offer suggestions to help make the event more accessible and welcoming to writers from all backgrounds and abilities.  Accessibility barriers obstruct the path for some aspiring authors so we must strive for a more inclusive and equitable community. In fostering a more accessible and supportive environment for all NaNoWriMo participants, we not only enrich our narratives but collectively contribute to the vibrant tapestry of literature, ensuring that no story remains untold, and no voice goes unheard.

I also want to give a quick shout-out to PLOTTR software which is very intuitive.  My new favorite writing aid. This plotting software is da bomb.  Use any of my affiliate links below and I might get a small commission. Thanks. 

PLOTTR 

Scrivener 

ProWritingAid 

Check out my Youtube channel for PLOTTR videos @jlnichauthorsff 

Joseph Michael’s Learn Scrivener Fast e-course

Please read and review my serial publishing novel, Sparrow’s Legacy, on Kindle Vella. You can read the first three chapters free on Amazon by searching for “Sparrows Legacy Kindle Vella” or clicking here. I. Please subscribe to my website if you want to be notified when I’ll be publishing or to get free samples of my work.

JLNich, Science Fiction Fantasy Author

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