Word magic.
Wish you knew how to outline your writing? Whenever I use the word “outline” to my students, I know a couple of people in the group will sigh and look as if they wish they were somewhere else. Anywhere else. To eliminate the panic, I suggest to my students that they substitute the word “map” for “outline.” A map: Orients … Read more
I’m a big fan of short fiction. If you’re a new author, publishing short stories gives you a boost in confidence. Myths about short fiction abound. “Readers won’t read short stories,” my students tell me. Not so. Many readers love short material. Readers are willing to pay and invest 30 minutes in a story, but will baulk at investing hours … Read more
I get lots of questions about developing a writing process. Specifically, do you have to write every day? Usually I respond with something like—it’s easier when you do. Many people have been credited with this quote, from Franz Liszt who said it in 1894, onwards: “If I miss one day’s practice, I notice it. If I miss two days’ practice, … Read more
Are you struggling to write a book? I work with self-publishing authors every day. Their biggest challenges: failing to answer the why? question, and over-thinking the process. This leads to procrastination and self-doubt. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, your writing process will go more smoothly if you write your blurb (book description) first. Although you’ll rework your book’s blurb … Read more
Does this sound like you? “I want to write a novel, but I don’t have any time. What do I do with all these ideas in my head?” Writers are shocked when I say that they’re in the perfect situation to kick off their career as a novelist. Many famous novelists wrote their first novels despite having day jobs. We … Read more