Writer of facts and fiction

I write stories and novels inspired by sets of facts and bodies of knowledge. I'm a graduate of the Iowa Writers' Workshop, and my writing appears in Iron Horse, Stone Canoe, Sport Literate, and elsewhere. I'm at work on a novel about a strained friendship and short stories involving dandelions, exoplanets and a Mars rover.

As a writer for Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences, I report on faculty research in a wide range of subjects. In recent favorites I've learned that: the universe will end in a big crunch; politicians are not ignoring you, and improvising takes vulnerability and courage.

I love to connect with people in the writing community. And fellow runners and theater geeks, too.

Kate1cropped_headshot

Recent Blog Posts

How to do a writing retreat without going anywhere

By Kate Blackwood | March 31, 2026

Last week, I transformed my own home into a writing residency. I re-framed my usual views out my office and kitchen windows and asked myself: would I spend a week here, writing?

‘I love a build’: uncovering happiness in ‘Don’t Call it a Comeback’

By Kate Blackwood | February 28, 2026

We can all learn from people who are just wired different. And in the case of me devouring Keira D’Amato’s story, it’s a case of complete joy in the discovery.

The cons and pros of winter running

By Kate Blackwood | January 31, 2026

Let’s start with the harsh reality and end with the silver lining.

Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to top

Sign up to get new posts via email

I blog about writing, running, theater, and other things, including regular book reviews and my special Best Read of the Week feature. Sign up to get new posts delivered right to your inbox!

You'll get a message when a new blog post goes up!