IMG_2296-2Hi! My name is Jenna Hazzard.

I’m pursuing the creative life through my reading, my writing and my work in the public library.

In the Spring of 2018, I graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a double major in English and Medieval Studies. Over my time at Laurier, I discovered and nurtured my interest in creative writing. Instead of rushing off to grad school, I chose to seriously pursue my writing and other creative pursuits for a few years. I created the blog portion of this website, because I wanted a place to document and discuss the experiences I have as I navigate my post-undergraduate life as a young writer.

Although I have tried my hand in a few genres, I mostly write fiction about real life and creative non-fiction. I am currently querying my book and writing the first draft of my second novel. To avoid spending all my writing time on the blog, the posts are going to be casual and perhaps a little unpolished, but ultimately heartfelt. I hope you find some value in the blog as I share my journey.

In March 2019, I launched a podcast called Library Life. I co-host this podcast with my sister, Shaena Hazzard. The episodes are filled with chatter about books, library-related issues and more. For more information, check out the podcast page of this website.

To keep the lights on and the bank account in the black (and also because I really do love it!), I also work part-time at a public library in Information Services and Local History.

Publications, Honourable Mentions and Awards:

2019 Publication in May 2019 ELLE Canada magazine – “Swimming Lessons” (Personal Essay)

2018 Chris Heard Memorial Writing Prize – Winner (Short Story)

2018 Publication in Blueprint Magazine – “Podiums, Public Speaking and Calling Yourself a Writer” (Personal Essay)

2017 Elle Canada Writing Competition – Runner-Up  and online publication (Personal Essay)

2017 Laurier English Students Association – Honourable Mention (Prose and Poetry)

2016 Dorthy Shoemaker Literary Awards – Honourable Mention (Poetry)