About

Join bestselling author Anne Lamott and writer-spiritual coach Neal Allen for an inspiring and entertaining evening that will change the way you think about language. Based on their new book In Good Writing, this dynamic onstage presentation offers 36 powerful techniques for transforming worthy sentences into unforgettable ones.

Through lively conversation, humor, and a touch of creative tension, Anne and Neal will walk audiences through essential rules that can instantly elevate any piece of writing—be it a novel, blog post, essay, speech, or screenplay. With Neal’s sharply honed insights from a career in journalism and business, and Anne’s unmistakable wit and wisdom from Bird by Bird and her many bestsellers, the two explore both the fundamentals and nuances of great prose.

Expect a spirited exchange as they dive into tips like “Use strong verbs,” “Twist clichés,” “Draw on all five senses,” and “Give your sentence a finale”—all while sharing real-life examples, practical advice, and the occasional debate. Along the way, they’ll also touch on the realities of the writing life: facing down unfinished drafts, working with editors, and knowing when to bend the rules.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this live event is a must-see for anyone who wants to write more vividly, more persuasively—and with more joy.