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

Time for the Swatch

By Kate Blackwood | June 1, 2025

Which watch to wear? It’s a question I have to answer every time I run a race. Last November, I wore my smart Apple watch during a 10K. It insisted (inaccurately) I was running a slower pace than I wanted,…

Corn Belt oasis

By Kate Blackwood | May 31, 2025

I rest here, sheltered by trees. So do the birds.

Pace group

By Kate Blackwood | April 30, 2025

Committing to a group pulled my novel draft across the finish line. Same thing with my latest marathon.

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!