Sometimes the easiest part of publishing is writing the story. Everything that comes next feels like banging your head against a glass ceiling until it cracks. The publishing industry asks writers to learn as they go, without support or direction.

But what if aspiring genre fiction writers could get a leg up and learn from those who have confronted and conquered similar challenges? And what if they could do it while developing their craft, finding like-minded community, and gaining more confidence in their publishing journey?

Story Island is crafted for writers, by writers, to:

• Give aspiring writers a place to level-up
• Provide real tools and insights from published authors and industry experts
• Establish relationships to carry through your career

Who will get the most out of Story Island?

Aspiring professional writers who have written at least 20,000 words of fiction (either short stories or longer works) and desire to publish. Story Island is tailored to those who are seriously pursuing professional development for their writing craft.

What type of content will be offered?

Our program will include lectures, small group classes, and intimate workshops organized in three categories:

• Demystifying Publishing
• Writing Craft
• Where Genres Collide

We’re also building in moments to come together as a full group to meet one another, have fun, and enjoy the idyllic island setting!

Learn more in the FAQ below.

Registration is now open!

Sign up to be notified when the Story Island preliminary schedule launches in May.

While our full schedule and speaker list will be announced Sept. 1, we’re happy to share a preview of speakers who currently plan to attend. Our full lineup of authors, agents, and industry professionals will give a well-rounded perspective on the industry and its multitude of paths.

Story Island is for writers, by writers. Here are just a few of the authors working behind the scenes of this cozy, educational gathering!

Volunteers are the heart of Story Island, from our programming, logistics, and marketing teams, to those coordinating on-site during the live event.

Want to help bring Story Island to life? We’d love to hear from you!

Volunteer roles vary. We’ll be in touch with more information after receiving your form submission. Questions? Reach out to story.island@bainbridgebarn.org.

Thank you for your interest in supporting Story Island! Please reach out to story.island@bainbridgebarn.org for sponsorship information.

When is Story Island?

Friday, Nov. 13, to Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026.

Where will the event be held?

At BARN, 8890 Three Tree Lane NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110.

If I’m traveling to Bainbridge Island, where should I stay?

We have a hotel room block at Marshall Suites. To book with our room block, call Marshall Suites at (206) 855-9666 and tell them you are with Story Island.

How much will it cost?

Full conference passes will be $175 for BARN members and $210 for guests.

Is food included?

Some! Drinks will be available for purchase at the welcome happy hour. We will provide lunch both Saturday and Sunday, and pizza Saturday night for those who opt in to participate in the group write-in. The registration form will include a field for dietary restrictions or needs.

Is the venue accessible?

View details about accessibility at BARN here.

Does Story Island cater to trad or indie publishing paths?

We strongly believe publishing is not “one-size-fits-all.” Our programming aims to demystify all paths to publishing for aspiring writers — trad, indie, and hybrid included.

My question hasn’t been answered … what now?

Reach out to the Story Island team at story.island@bainbridgebarn.org. We’ll do our best to help!