October 2025 Reflections

This October on Nantucket was a beautiful reminder of why we do this work. Four talented writers — Alex Heller, Nik Dodani, Alex Murawski, and Julie Sharbutt — came to Almanack Pond Farm with exciting projects, commitment to craft, open hearts and minds, and an expansive spirit of curiosity and collaboration. We were joined by extraordinary mentors Charles Randolph and Minhal Baig, whose wisdom, clarity, and generosity shaped both the work and our time together in deeply meaningful ways. And we’re grateful for our Nantucket friends and colleagues whose support and presence help make Almanack a warm creative home for our writers.

Across the weeks of October and into November, these four writers settled into long, immersive work days; offered thoughtful feedback on each other’s scripts; shared late-night talks, movies, and many laughs; enjoyed many meals together; wandered the nature trails; breathed in the ocean air; explored town; and celebrated Halloween as the island eased into its quieter season.

Each writer found their own rhythm and reached truly inspiring levels of productivity. As always, the magic of artists gathering and working with intention in this special shared creative space added up to a powerful sense of collective momentum.

We’re thrilled to welcome Alex, Nik, Alex, and Julie into our alumni community and we look forward to watching their work continue to expand out into the world!

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