One of the toughest decisions a writer has to make is whether to try to get a traditional publisher, or go the self-publishing route. Both have their drawbacks. Getting a traditional publisher almost always requires getting an agent, first. Then the agent tries to find a publisher. It also usually means the author gives up … Continue reading Decisions, Decisions
My 100 word story
This story was written by a member of my writing group.
My First Solo
Clunk-clunk click my heels as I step towards the white void. Thump-thump beats my heart slamming in my chest. A four-point-five tremor shakes my fingers as one hand grips the stand, the other slipping down the shaft of the microphone.
A mix of denim and bare legs wait, a blaring silence hushing the faceless bodies.
A single strum of the piano keys fills the auditorium, then another long strum, and finally, the violin joins in. I count down from three, open my mouth, and pray my voice doesn’t crack on my first note.
100-Word Story Challenge
Writers, have you ever tried writing a 100-word story? A member of my writers group recently challenged us to write a 100-word story, so I gave it a try. It's hard! Every word is so precious, I regretted the loss of each one I lopped off. I was inspired to write this story recently when … Continue reading 100-Word Story Challenge
Revision Sprint
Work, commute, family responsibilities, exercise, chores, errands--oh, and don't forget having fun and maintaining relationships and friends. When do I find time to write? I've been struggling with this for a long time. Usually I end up squeezing in little bits of writing in the evenings and on the weekend, in between other things, and … Continue reading Revision Sprint
Notice Anything Different?
No, I didn't get a haircut. (Isn't that what women ask their husbands when they get a new hairstyle?) I added a new button to my website! One of the great things about pursuing my dream of writing and publishing a book is that I'm always learning something new. Not long ago, I learned how … Continue reading Notice Anything Different?
How Many Drafts?
Many new writers ask, "How many drafts does it take to write a good book that is ready for publication?" The frustrating answer is, "As many drafts as it takes to write a good book ready for publication." Some writers can create beautiful, publication-ready prose right out of the gate that only requires minor tweaking … Continue reading How Many Drafts?
Grit
What determines whether someone--whether they are an athlete, artist, musician, or in any other profession--is successful? It turns out it's not natural talent, or even intelligence. It's grit. At least, that's what Angela Duckworth says in Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. I've been listening to this book on Audible, and have been greatly … Continue reading Grit
For the Love of Books
I have loved books for as long as I can remember. Not only do I love reading them, I also smile at the sight of their spines dressed in brightly-colored jackets on the bookshelves. I take pleasure in the feel of the pages as they slide through my fingers, some slippery like silk, and others … Continue reading For the Love of Books
A Call for Beta Readers
What is a beta reader, you ask? A beta reader is someone who reads a book before it is finalized and sent off for publishing to give honest, substantive feedback about what works and what doesn't. A beta reader's job is not to catch typos and grammar errors, but rather to provide comments about what … Continue reading A Call for Beta Readers
Let the Rejections Begin!
Sending off your writing work to be accepted, rejected, or worse--ignored--can be a scary thing. Especially when that work is as deeply personal as memoir. I finally took that step and have submitted the proposal for my memoir to the first handful of agents. These are some of the agents that I met at the … Continue reading Let the Rejections Begin!
