Any advice for a high school junior starting creative writing?

Question

This is weird, but I got inspired to pick up creative writing again after completing a picture prompt on my state's standardized test yesterday. I used to enjoy writing stories back in middle school, but once high school started, my creative juices died. English class now only consists of analyzing texts and timed writings, so I haven't used my creative writing skills for a while.

I haven't had a chance to take any creative writing classes, so it's just an outside hobby. Any particular websites where I can find support and people to critique my work? Should I share my work with my friends and get advice from them? I usually receive positive feedback from people I know about my writing, so I'm not sure if that truly means I'm a good writer. Should I hand write my stories or type them? Any (positive) advice is appreciated, thank you very much.

Answer 1

Write, write, write, read, read, read.

Answer 2

I am not sure about websites for support and critique. November is national novel writing month, where writers try to turn out a novel in a month's time, and this is its website: http://www.nanowrimo.org/

While having your family and friends read your work might be a nice self-esteem boost, they might be more concerned about your feelings than about giving you an honor opinion regarding your writing.

I don't know if this is an option or not, but I would suggest trying to find a group of creative writers, whether at school or even around town and join or try to start a writing circle. They will tend to give more helpful criticism, both in terms of not trying to spare your feelings as well as being able to give you specific areas for improvement (plot, character, setting, etc.).

If you can't find such a group, I'm sure a quick Goggle search will yield forums for creative writers.

Lastly, I want to recommend purchasing something of Josip Novakovich's, like Fiction Writer's Workshop. Novakovich has written a number of books on fiction writing, short story writing, and just creative writing in general. His commentary is very useful, but most importantly he provides writing exercises to help you hone your skills in different areas.

Answer 3

Judging by your question and subsequent explanation, I believe you are halfway there.  Keep up the good work.

Your spelling, grammar, and composition are flawless.  It's refreshing.

- 31 years as an educator.