As one of our four favorite seasons in northern Michigan gets ready to explode in color, crisp air, an urge to get outside and hike, putter, paddle, cast, explore and breathe in the fresh air washes over us. Aside from the endless vistas along our highways and roads, northern Michigan makes room for imagination. A settling in begins.

This photo was a quick grab from our newest fabulous place to find Walloon Writers Review, Trillium Woods Coffee along the Tunnel of Trees between Harbor Springs and Good Hart. You’ll have to go inside, grab a fall beverage of your choice, and see for yourself. What an exciting addition to our trail of great places to stop in and pick up a copy of the latest edition!

Walloon Writers Review contributors are a very special group of people. This year, as well documented on this site, we were invited to offer readings across the state, in Saginaw, Walloon Lake, and Ishpeming, as well as hearing readings at our launch party in Petoskey. I had more time to visit face to face with contributors than ever before. I’m honored that you are a part of this publication and the circle of friends you included in this journey. Thank you to everyone who helped with set up, read with the passion and clarity that only you, the original author, can bring to a reading, and serve as ambassadors as we expand our reach to writers and readers around Michigan and beyond.

In this season of sunshine, cool mornings, pumpkins, wineries, ciders, delicious apples and food that just tastes so much better, enjoy the glow, get out, and explore someplace new. There are so many adventures to be had here. Fall is a favorite for many of us writers and readers, as the sweater or hoodie comes out and you settle into your walk, reflecting on all of the great memories of a smoky but satisfactory summer. Take note of all of the colors and sounds and smells around you as you explore.

Walloon Writers Review Ninth Edition is available at several independent bookstores and many libraries across the state! If you are looking for that collection that brings the feel of northern Michigan home with you, pick up a copy as you explore northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Here are a few places to find us: Between The Covers – Harbor Springs; McLean & Eakin – Petoskey, Horizon Books – Traverse City, Snowbound Books – Marquette, The Bookman – Grand Haven, Parallel 45 Books and Gifts – Alpena, Canterbury Bookstore – Escanaba, Bay Books – Suttons Bay, Brilliant Books – Traverse City, Poetess & Stranger – Petoskey, Jordan River Art Center Gift Shop – East Jordan, and many more.

In the coming posts, we will introduce contributors so that you can learn more about who makes this collection of short stories, poetry, and nature photography so exciting!

*Footnote: Our Facebook and Instagram pages are down due to hacking. The process to reopen them is cumbersome. For now, we will be only using our email and website for social media.