Missing NaNoWriMo?

If you’ve dabbled in the writing community around November, you’re probably familiar with National Novel Writing Month — better known as NaNoWriMo. This US-based non-profit organisation challenged writers to write 50,000 words over the 30 days of November each year.

End of an Era

After 26 years, it was announced in March, 2025, that NaNoWriMo was closing. The news left a huge gap in the writing community, and as we approach November yet again, many are only now discovering that NaNoWriMo is no more.

A New Chapter

But there’s good news! Another organisation has stepped in to carry the torch: ProWritingAid. You might know it as a competitor to Grammarly, an AI-powered writing assistant, but it offers so much more.

Their new event, Novel November (or NovNov), also encourages the 50,000-word challenge, though it’s completely optional. Whether you’re starting a brand-new idea or revisiting an old project, it’s about building sustainable writing habits, rediscovering the joy of the craft, and connecting with a supportive community. For writers who miss the creative rush of NaNoWriMo, this might just be the perfect replacement.

Thousands of writers have already joined in for Preptober — the lead-up month packed with free resources, workshops, and events. NovNov Ambassadors share advice through talks and livestreams, featuring published authors, developmental editors, publishers, and more. It even includes Perth’s own fantasy author, Jed Herne!

Write Your Next Chapter

While NaNoWriMo may have come to an end, the community, creativity, and commitment it inspired live on. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start that story, to tug that thread — this is it. November is calling.