The Writer's Keep

Finding Time to Blog

2011-12-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

I have four blogs. Big mistake. One of my most popular blogs is Interviews & Reviews. It's pretty straightforward - I review Christian books and interview Christian authors. Sometimes I have giveaways. My other blog is Enjoying the Journey. It is for spiritual encouragement on your journey in life. My third blog is on my website. I use that for spiritual encouragement, as well as news on what is happening in my life. My fourth blog is this one and unfortunately it is the one that has been suffering the most, as I'm sure you've noticed.

Blogging is supposed to be consistent. Readers will stop coming to your blog if you don't have new content every few days. I know - because you've stopped coming. I don't blame you. I started this blog off with good intentions. Unfortunately, as a writer who is about to release another book and has two more on the go, finding time to blog has not been easy. Which is why I'm about to cut back and delete a few blogs. The Writer's Keep will be one of the first to go.

I will keep the articles up for a while as I know some of them may be helpful. In the meantime, I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

I Want You to Write a Theme...

2011-10-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Writing the title of this post gave me the heebie-jeebies, just like it did in public school. Nothing made me hate writing more than a theme. Especially when it was inspired by the teacher. If she had let us pick our own themes that would have been easier - wouldn't it? Not necessarily, because writing a theme is one of the most difficult parts of writing a story. Like it or not, for all the budding writer's in my class, our teacher was doing us a favour by getting us used to themes, yet years later as I am working on my second book, making sure there is a theme still haunts me.

So, what is a theme? A theme is a topic to be explored, like death or man's inhumanity to man. It is also a moral message about a human quality like denial, love or anger. In order to create a complete theme, your moral message is then applied to your topic. For example, you might explore death and the denial or anger that can stem from that.

Many authors don't have a theme in mind when they begin writing. Instead, they concentrate on their characters and developing them, or the setting and developing that. Unfortunately, sooner or later they will come to a standstill in their writing because they have neglected the heart of the story - the theme.

Now sometimes you might get lucky and without realizing it you have woven the theme into your story. I didn't even see the theme of Come to Me until I was finished writing the book. When I read it over I realized the theme of surrendering to God kept coming up again and again. The moral message was of course trusting in God and I explored that through my characters who each had to make a decision on whether or not they would relinquish their will for God's will.

So, this week re-read your work in progress and see if you can spot your theme. If you don't have one, then choose something you are passionate about and weave that into your story somehow. Then come back and tell me in as few words as possible what your topic is about.

Making the Ordinary Extraordinary

2011-10-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended a going away party for my dear friend Sue. We shared humorous stories, laughed, watched videos, looked at old pictures, wept, ate food and danced. Sue was leaving on a trip to a place I have never been but long to see one day. She wanted a party because she won't be seeing us for a while and she wanted us to remember her not with tears, but with laughter.

There was a mixture of both because you see, this particular "party" was a funeral.

I don't think I've ever been to a funeral where I danced and I know I've never been to a funeral where the pastor put one of those red spongy clown noses on during his sermon. In fact, everything about this "funeral" broke the mould of what I have come to know and expect about funerals. But it wasn't about proper funeral etiquette, it was about the person we were honouring. You see Sue had a big personality that enveloped everyone she met. She had an outrageous sense of humour that made you love her immediately. She found the funny in everything and red clown noses were just one of those "funny" things.

So, what does this have to do with writing, you ask? Everything! When you are writing a scene that is about something ordinary - like for example - a funeral - step out of the box of the expected and twist it into something unexpected. Surprise your reader. Shock them! Give them the extraordinary.

We have a slew of events that take place in our lives where we know what is "supposed" to happen next. From graduations, to weddings to funerals - there is a certain expectation of order or as I stated before "etiquette". Fortunately, as a writer you can change things and make your reader sit up and take notice. If I had written a funeral scene into a story that I'm currently working on where at the end of the service everyone got up and danced, my readers might balk and say, "That would never happen!" Well, I'm here to say that yes it could, but only if you have clearly defined your character's personality in the first place. It has to be believable. Yesterday, no one was in shock at the dancing because we all knew Sue and she would have loved it.

So, create that extraordinary scene of the unexpected, but build up to it with characters that are full of personality and you will have your readers waiting to see what will happen next!

Writing What You Read

2011-09-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

What is your favourite genre of book to read and who are your favourite authors? For me it is historical fiction/romance. My favourite authors are - Liz Curtis Higgs, Jody Hedlund, Ann H. Gabhart, Laura Franz, Janette Oke, Allison Pitman and a new discovery - Dorothy Love. I'm sure that list will continue to grow (I'm also pretty sure I forgot someone).

Why do I ask these questions? I ask, because a long time ago in a writing class I took, the teacher made a remark that always stuck with me, "Write what you read, what you know, what you love." Good advice! I had always read historical fiction. My favourite books growing up were the Little House on the Prairie series, Little Women and of course Anne of Green Gables. I loved the family values in these books. As I grew older the desire for a journey into the past found me reaching for historical fiction repeatedly.

It was no surprise then that the first book I ever wrote (still unpublished) was historical fiction in nature and my second book, which was published last year was also historical fiction. While it was more appropriately termed biblical fiction, it was about a subject I know and love - Jesus! And I am drawn to biblical fiction (which is hard to find) more than I am drawn to historical romances. In addition, as a student of inductive study, the research for this era was something I really enjoyed. So, I wrote what I read, knew and loved and I guess it paid off because Come to Me recently won a Reader's Favourite Award.

So, here is my question for you this week. Are you writing what you read, know and love?

How Much Detail is Too Much?

2011-08-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I find annoying in some books is too much description. On the other hand, too little description can leave a reader floundering. So, how do you find a healthy balance?

One of the keys to writing a good setting is not getting carried away with every little detail. For example, I once read a book that went into a detailed description of an antique store - for four pages! I had the picture of the store in my mind after one sentence. But for some inexplicable reason, the author needed to explain in great detail, every item in the store. I was so bored I feared what the rest of the book would look like. So, I skipped ahead and it was the same throughout. From the colour of lampshades, to the swirling pattern in the rugs on the floor, this author lead me to commit reader suicide - I threw the book in the trash.

So, what did she do wrong? Her first problem of course was too much description. She left nothing to the reader's imagination. She told me, she did not show me. She also failed to implement the use of dialogue between her characters. A healthy balance between the two and she could have taken her book from boring to interesting.

On the other hand, I have read books with too much dialogue and not enough description. I couldn't keep track of the characters because the author hadn't put enough detail into their descriptions. And that is where you find the balance. Use your characters to "see" things for your readers. For example: She breathed in the heady fragrance of the blossoms that dotted the hillside. I don't need to know what kind of blossoms they were or what colour - as a reader I prefer to have that left to my imagination. Unless it is central to your story, there is no need to go in to great detail about it.

The same goes for character description. Don't stand your character in front of a mirror to describe them. Have another character comment on their appearance. "How do I look?" can lead your male character from ogling the curves on his wife's body to sinking his hands into her long blonde locks. You get the idea. Show - don't tell.

So, what are you working on this week?

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Practice Writing

2011-08-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

What do I mean when I say practice your writing? How is that different from sitting down and writing a novel? Writing practice is just that - practice. It's like a singer who warms up her vocal chords with scales before she steps on stage. Or a pianist warming up his fingers before his big concert. Writing practice takes you away from your current project and flexes your brain a little. It is improv at it's best. So, here are the Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Practice Writing:

It keeps you from getting bored.
It allows you to free up your mind.
You don't have to edit, rephrase or rethink what you've written!
You don't have to compare what you've written to anyone else.
It can evolve from a practice session into an article, essay or novel!
You don't have to worry about grammar, punctuation or sentence structure.
You learn to write about what you are passionate about.
It will surprise you.
You don't have to worry about research!
You will have a treasure trove of stories, articles, etc. for future use.

This list could go on and on, but I think you get the picture. Now - go practice!

How Do You Write a Book?

2011-08-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

How do you write a book? You put your hands on your computer keys and start typing! Yeah, that probably won't work if you don't have any idea what you are writing about, or where to start. So, ask yourself this question: Which type of writer are you? Choose one of the below:

I like to outline and research everything first - the plot, the scenes, the history of my characters, right down to what they had for dinner last night.

I have a basic idea and write a brief outline and then I start typing.

I write (by hand) all my ideas in a book. Then I do the research and when I think I'm ready, I start writing.

Outline? What's an outline? Who has time for that? When I'm in a creative mood - I write!

So, which one is the right one? All of the above! Not all writers are created equal. We each have our different quirks and preferences. When I first started writing, I would work out a plan in my head for weeks (sometimes months), jotting down ideas as they came. When the pressure to write began to overwhelm me, that's when I started writing. I don't do that today. Now, I use an outline, sometimes I even use writing software, depending on my mood. If you need to get your thoughts well organized, writing software is the way to go. Here are just a few with attached links. I advise you to check them all out because not all programs are created equal and as I said before, everyone has their different quirks and preferences.

A favourite of many is Randy Ingermanson's - Snowflake method. You can write your entire novel with this ingenious little program. You can find out all about it here.

I downloaded YWriter years ago because it was free! YWriter is a word processor that breaks your novel into chapters and scenes. You can get it here.

Storyweaver is a great program that covers everything you will ever need. From plot and character development to theme and chapters. This is a great software program that is perfect for people who are sticklers for details and if you are stumped, it asks pointed questions about where you want your novel to go. It's not expensive either. I highly recommend this one. You can get it here.

Of course, I can't leave out Scrivener. Everyone seems to be talking about this program, which until recently was only available for MAC users. If you are a Windows User and you're willing, you can be a beta-tester for this program right now and when it comes out, you get a free copy (minus all the bugs). That's what beta-testing is all about - there will be bugs. But hey! It looks like a neat program and you can check it out here.

If you got lots of dollars to spend, then the ultimate writing software (I've heard - I don't have the big bucks!) is Dramatica Pro. Used by professionals this writing software will unblock your writer's block (at least that is what it claims). You can check it out here.

I know there are many more software programs out there, but these are the ones I'm familiar with. So that's about it. What about you? Do you use a software program? How do you write your books, articles, etc.?

The Benefits of a Writing/Critique Group

2011-08-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

Are you in a writer's group yet? If you aren't, you should be. Writer's groups are where you will make lasting friendships and at the same time develop your skills as a writer. So, what's holding you back?

Initially, one of the things that kept me from joining a writer's group was my fear. I was afraid of many things:

The fear of sharing what I had written with others
The fear of finding out I couldn't write
The fear of being judged
The fear of not having anything to contribute to the group

The list went on and on, until I joined one and I discovered that there was more to writing groups than my insecurities. I also had to realize that while we all have various interests, I needed to be in a group that were willing to be my friends as well. The first group I joined were adamant about their rules: "We are not here to socialize or get to know each other. We are only here to learn about the craft of writing." Ew! Within five minutes of being there I wanted to run for the door! How could I share my writing with people who did not want to know who I was or what I was about? How could I trust them with anything? I never went back and started my own group instead. So, here is your first lesson about writing groups - make sure you click! If you feel uncomfortable get out - you can't be creative in an atmosphere that is hostile.

But when you do find a good group, here is what you will experience:

Lasting friendships
A feeling of being connected with like-minded individuals
Acknowledgement that - yes you can write!
Not being judged
Learning how other writer's write!
The feeling of accomplishment
Encouragement

That list can go on and on as well. The point is this, you need to be with like-minded people who can support you and encourage you in your writing journey and vice-versa. But how do you find one? To start, look on your library bulletin board or post your own notice and start your own group. Post notices in Christian bookstores as well. If you are in or near the London, Ontario area I have openings in my own group and would love to have you attend. We start again in September. In the meantime, if you are already in a group what do you like the most about it? How has it benefited your writing journey?

A New Kind of Writing Field Trip

2011-08-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday night, I had the opportunity to take a writing "field-trip" to our local emergency room. Naturally, I didn't plan this excursion, but as life goes, "things happen" and we find ourselves in the hospital. While I waited for 10 hours to see a doctor (yes, the medical care in Canada is paid for, but it comes with a price - you have to be incredibly patient) anyhow...

I whiled away the first two hours by finishing a book that I was to review. After that, I had the pleasure of spending the next six hours meeting new people who sat beside me (for those of you counting - the remaining 4 hours, I spent in a bed waiting for treatment). I began to notice things and literally ached for a pen and paper. While I was sick and in pain, my mind could not stop listening to the dialogue of those around me and storing it away for future use. For instance, have you ever noticed that when you are in an emergency room, people (I should say women, because 90% of the time they are the ones to start talking) offer advice to total strangers? I watched in fascination as people came through the sliding doors only to be greeted by a sign that said, "Wait time is 7-8 hours for non-life-threatening issues". The crest-fallen faces, slumped shoulders and anger was so prevalent it filled the entire room with angst. But, here is where it became interesting. One woman behind another waiting in line asked nonchalantly, "So, this is awful isn't it? I can't believe we have to wait this long when I have ____ wrong with me". The other woman's eyes lit up, "Oh! I know. It's horrible! I have this wrong with me ____." To which the other woman began to give her a diagnosis, ending with, "You probably shouldn't wait around for something like that. You would do better with a walk-in clinic and not have to wait as long."

And so it went. People, vying for position in the line by diagnosing each other! It was fascinating, frightening (that someone would take a complete stranger's advice) and a little funny, because almost every woman there did it! My mind was racing with ideas after watching these exchanges.

Of course, my little writing field trip didn't end at the conversations. The people who entered the doors left me with a boat-load of descriptive characters. From the man retching in the bathroom every 15 minutes (loud enough that everyone in the waiting room could hear him - accept apparently the nurses), to the older gentleman having what looked like a seizure, but turned out to be a panic attack. He had been waiting so long, his leg had turned yellow and he started to break down in tears, screaming and shaking so much he couldn't bear the strain of waiting any longer. Such, unfortunately is the state of Canada's health care system.

When I left the hospital at three the next morning, I had descriptions for nurses, doctors and patients. I had dialogue that included everything from medical terms and conditions, to patients who openly shared their life stories (mostly out of boredom) to other patients who decided to react in anger. They were dealt with by security.

All that to say this. Life happens. Make the most of any situation you find yourself in and always have a pen and a small writing book on you. You never know when you're going to need it!

How Many Edits Are Enough?

2011-07-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

So, you've finished your first draft and now you've reached the editing stage. Take a deep breath now ... this may be painful. Before you edit your manuscript may I suggest you set it aside for a least one week? Maybe two? It's always good to forget about it for a while, that way you can come back at it with fresh eyes.

The following are suggestions that I have gleaned from books, other writers, teachers and from my own experiences. Hopefully, they will help you organize your editing process.

Once you have printed out your project (double-spaced of course) find a quiet place alone and read it aloud if you can. When you read your work aloud you will quickly realize if the dialogue is stilted, or the descriptions seem never ending. Typos become apparent, as does the flow of your story. If you suddenly get an idea for a major change, make a note, but continue on - this is more of a proofreading session then anything. Have a red pen handy to make note of missed periods, commas, bad grammar, etc. but don't do a major edit yet. This is just your first read through.

After you've found all your "mistakes" go back to your computer and fix them. At this point, I go back to any notes I've made and make those "major changes", then I print the whole thing out again. I then read it again, with my red pen handy and do the same process all over again. Yes, it is tedious and yes I use a lot of paper, but that is my way of catching things. You may find it easier to catch things by reading it on your computer screen and making notes there. That's great! Do it that way if you can. You're saving the planet! There is no right or wrong way - just make sure you read your manuscript more than once.

Okay, so you've made all the changes you want. Should you send it to a publisher now? NO! Now, take advantage of your friends, family and especially your writing group if you have one. It's critique time. This is where you need people to be brutally honest with you. Don't take their comments as insults, they are meant to be helpful, to help you produce the best manuscript you can before you send it to an editor.

SAY WHAT?!? I have to send it to an editor AFTER I've done all the editing?

Yes, and here's why...a professional editor sees things that you don't. They see paragraphs that need to be moved, or parts of the story that would flow better in chapter eight instead of chapter three. And let's not forget grammar ... grammar alone is my one reason for using an editor. I suck at grammar!

Unfortunately, your edits don't end once you send it off to an editor, because they will always have something for you to change. Once again, you will need to make more changes. My editor told me I had a clean manuscript and that he didn't have many changes. Yet, I read through my book five times in one week with all the errors he caught, that my team of friends and family didn't. In the end I think my manuscript went through more than 17 edits from start to finish, maybe even more. I guarantee by the time you are ready to send your book off to a publisher you will be glad to be rid of it!

So, for those of you in the editing stage right now, you have my deepest sympathies. Take heart. It won't last long and in the end you will have something you can confidently pitch to any publisher or agent.

Guest Post - Randy Ingermanson

2011-07-27T05:40:00.000-07:00

Interior monologue is the sequence of thoughts that pass through a viewpoint character's mind. The reader can hear these, either as word-for-word thoughts or else as the gist of what the character is thinking.

Either way, this is a fine way to give your reader little snippets about your character's backstory.

The key thing here is to treat interior monologue backstory like salt. A little is good -- it makes you thirsty. A lot makes you gag.

If you're going to use interior monologue this way, make the backstory references necessary to the character's line of thinking, and keep them short.

Dialogue

Inexperienced writers often launch a long stretch of backstory in dialogue by having one character begin, "As you know..."

The problem is that nobody in real life ever tells somebody else what they both know. This kind of backstory stops your story cold. The reason is that there's no conflict. They both already know everything.

If you want to tell some of your backstory using dialogue, drive it with conflict. Maybe one of the characters knows and doesn't want to tell, whereas the other character doesn't know and desperately needs to. Or maybe one character is about to do something stupid, and the other one can only prevent it by giving up some backstory.

There are plenty of ways to play out some backstory through dialogue so that you maintain a high level of conflict.

Remember: no conflict, no story. So your dialogue must have conflict. If you keep the conflict high, you can give your reader unlimited amounts of backstory in dialogue.

A cross-examination of a witness in a courtroom is a classic powerful way to use dialogue to reveal backstory. The dialogue itself is frontstory. The information revealed in the dialogue is mostly backstory. But naturally, it has a huge impact on the frontstory.

Narrative summary

Sometimes the most efficient way to give the reader some backstory is just to tell her. Narrative summary is efficient.

It's also boring. If you're going to tell the backstory this way, keep it as short as possible and put some effort into making it as interesting as possible, because this is where you're most likely to lose your reader.

Tom Clancy is famous for giving the reader large doses of backstory early in his books. His novel THE HUNT FOR RED OCTOBER has 12 pages of solid backstory in narrative summary, beginning on page 30.

Did Tom make a mistake? His millions of fans will tell you he got it right. The backstory begins after a very strong start, in which a Soviet submarine commander kills his own political officer at the beginning of a cruise, and then announces a bold and daring mission to his crew. The commander is committing treason, and the reader needs a spectacularly good reason why. The backstory provides that reason. Now the reader is on the commander's side.

If you're going to use narrative summary, do it after a strong action scene, when the reader needs a bit of a break anyway. Use it to explain some of the questions the reader might have.

Flashback

Flashbacks are often vilified by writing teachers. I don't see any good reason to avoid flashbacks, so long as the reader feels the need for some backstory.

A flashback is, in fact, a great way to show the reader some backstory using all the techniques of frontstory.

My favorite example of flashback is the series of memories that Professor Snape gives Harry Potter in the 7th and final book of the Harry Potter series. Here at last, after thousands of pages, we learn the real secrets of Snape's past, why he hates Harry, and . . . why he loves him.

A flashback has an entry point (where the viewpoint character flashes back to the past) and an exit point (where the character returns to the present).

Generally, these are tied together by some object that somehow triggers the memory of the past. In the case of the Potter flashbacks, the triggering object is the "Pensieve" which acts as a portal into other people's memories.

A Nonlinear Timeline

Sometimes you simply tell the story out of order. This is different than a flashback, which always has an entry point and an exit point.

When you use a nonlinear timeline, you can insert a time-stamp to indicate the date. Audrey Niffenegger uses a nice twist on this technique in THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE, where the dates aren't that important, but the characters' ages are.

You can also use a header that says something like, "Six weeks earlier." John Locke uses this technique in his novel SAVING RACHEL, at the point where he switches protagonists.

The first two-thirds of Locke's book features Sam Case, who is having a very bizarre day -- he's forced to choose whether his wife or his new mistress is going to die.

The final third of the book features a different protagonist, and begins with the words, "Two days earlier, 9:30 am..."

The book then replays things and fills in some essential backstory that Sam Case doesn't know.

In some cases, you can simply jump back a number of years without any warning at all. Mario Puzo does this in Part 3 of THE GODFATHER, which takes Don Corleone back to the age of 12 and replays in fast-forward his life for several decades to show how he became the Godfather.

Modern readers are smart and don't mind this kind of leaping around through time, as long as they care about the story, and as long as they know where they are on the time-line.

Research

In some stories, the plot revolves around figuring out what happened in the past. This is obviously true for mysteries, where the detective is looking for clues.

It's also true in some kinds of thrillers. An example is THE DAVINCI CODE, where the protagonist must learn the secrets of the holy grail in order to stay alive.

The key thing is to make the research essential to the frontstory. Then success means learning the backstory.

So what do you do if your story has too much backstory up front?

That's not so hard. Follow these steps:

* Make a fresh working copy of your manuscript (so you don't lose what you've got right now).

* Read through your manuscript and mark every piece of backstory. You can do this easily in Word by highlighting it and then inserting a comment that says, "Backstory."

* Now go through your story and interrogate every single piece of backstory to figure out if it's both necessary and minimal. If it isn't, snip it out and save it to a different file -- a "backstory file."

* Read through your story one more time looking for places that are confusing because of missing backstory. Clear up the confusion by inserting the minimal necessary backstory. You can either write it fresh or copy in a piece from your backstory file. You can use any of the six techniques we discussed above. Choose the one that meets your strategic goals for the story best.

When you finish, you'll have a leaner, more robust story in which every single piece of backstory is just what your reader needs in order to enjoy the front story.

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 26,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.

Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Making Your Reader Love Backstory

2011-07-25T09:53:00.000-07:00

Once again I am delighted to include a post by author Randy Ingermanson. This is a long post so I will divide it up over the next couple of days. Enjoy!

If you want to kill your novel, the quickest, surest way to do it is to throw in a big lump of backstory on your first page. Or in your first chapter.

Yes, sure, I've seen published novelists start off with a boatload of backstory. I've seen jugglers juggling burning torches. I've seen an archer shoot an arrow through the balloon atop his wife's head. Blindfolded.

But all of these are risky behaviors. If you want to take risks, there needs to be a payoff somewhere. If you don't know the payoff, then you have no business taking risks.

Backstory, by the way is good. If you don't know your characters' backstory -- all the stuff that happened in their lives up till the time your story started, then odds are good that your story is going to be pretty shallow.

You want to know the backstory of your novel.

The trick here is to make your reader want to know that backstory too. The real trick is to make your reader beg for it.

You don't do that by piling it on in the first chapter, before your reader cares about your characters.

How do you make your reader beg? There are several ways, but they all come down to the same thing. You write a compelling story with strong characters and sharp plot twists.

A plot twist is an unexpected change in the story direction. Your reader thought she knew your character, thought she could predict what would happen next, and was delighted to learn she was wrong. That darned character zigged when he should have zagged. Why?

Most of the time, it's because of something in his past. There's a reason. And now your reader wants to know that reason. Now she's ready for backstory.

The rules for backstory are really pretty simple:
* Just in time.
* Just enough.

"Just in time" means only when the reader needs it and only when the reader wants it.

"Just enough" means that the reader doesn't need to know everything you do. Leave the reader wanting more, not wanting less.

Remember that at least one major category of fiction is all about discovering the backstory -- the mystery.
Once you've got a corpse in the picture, the whole story is about figuring out who did it, why he did it, and how he did it. That's backstory, pure and simple.
But until you've got a corpse, none of that is of any interest.

You have at least six good ways to give your reader backstory, when the time is ripe. Here they are:

* Interior monologue
* Dialogue
* Narrative summary
* Flashback
* A nonlinear timeline
* Research

Let's talk about each of these in turn.

(to be continued tomorrow)

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 26,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.

Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T22:33:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry for this late post. The power was turned off on my street today for about eight hours, so I had no access to the internet. But, better late than never! Today's picture may be a little hard for you to get inspired, so here's a start - how would you describe what a strawberry tastes like?

Are You a Fast Writer?

2011-07-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Author Isaac Asimov was once asked what he would do if he knew he only had six months to live.

He responded,"Type faster."

And that is the subject for today. Are you a "fast writer"? One who keeps typing until it's done, or do you edit as you go? Which one is better?

First off, if you are aiming to be a professional writer, you can't sit at your computer playing games on Facebook, waiting for inspiration to strike (I know this for a fact. I tried it - it didn't work. However, I built a really nice farm on Farmville). The alternative of course is that you can just keep writing, no matter how bad it sounds.

Professional writers show up everyday to write and they keep at it no matter what. If the first sentence isn't working for them, they leave it and move on with the rest of the story. They are NaNoWriMo writers everyday. For those of you who don't know what NaNoWriMo is, it is National Novel Writing Month. The premise is simple - you write a novel in a month. You show up every day and write until you get the job done.

However, NaNoWriMo writers shouldn't edit as they go, they should just keep writing. That is my biggest problem - editing as I go. I am trying to change this habit, because I will never get my next book finished if I don't.

Now, I know some writers like to write and edit as they go, but do yourself a favour, try it for a week - write without editing. See how much you can accomplish this week with the current project you are working on. Pretend you have a deadline (maybe you do, all the more reason to type faster) and get that project finished!

What is your goal for this week? I'm going to finish my companion bible study guide to Come to Me. What are you working on?

Are You Unique?

2011-07-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

The other day I read a writing tip (from a well-known author whose name I will not mention) to post pictures of your favourite authors around your desk or on your bathroom mirror - wherever you would see them on a daily basis. Then look at yourself in the mirror and say, "I am (insert name of author here), so now I will go and write like (insert name of author here)." These tricks might work for some people, but staring at myself in a mirror and saying, "I am Liz Curtis Higgs" (she's my favourite author) is not going to make me write like Liz Curtis Higgs. That's like standing in front of a mirror and saying, "I am a chocolate doughnut - now I will be one." Yeah...I don't think that's going to happen ... well it might ... if I eat enough of them! :)

While self-visualization might help some people, I prefer the more direct, hands-on approach. The following will help you become like your favourite author. To clarify - you will not BE them, but they may help you to write LIKE them.

Read your favourite author all the time
Read other authors that write in your favourite genre
Practice writing daily
Join a writer's group
Attend writer's conferences
Take workshops and writing courses
Set up a writing schedule
Enter contests
Submit articles to magazines, etc.
Learn from rejection slips and try again
Edit, then edit some more
Do whatever you can to make yourself improve at your craft

In other words, everything you are doing now, from writing daily to editing, etc. are all things that your favourite author has done or is still doing. They didn't become a success overnight. It took years of writing and educating themselves on the craft of writing and on the publishing industry. It's great to want to be like your favourite author. There is nothing wrong in shooting for that dream. But don't forget - you are unique and someone out there who is just starting to get the writing bug, might be looking up at you one day, wishing they could be like you. Who do you want them to find? Your favourite author, or you?

Why All Writer's Should Read Poetry

2011-07-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big poetry fan. I should be, I wrote songs for years and still do once in a while. But, I started to get bored with poetry for few reasons. I think it started in school when my English teacher forced us to write 10 to 15 poems for each class - everyday. Or it could have been the poems that were so sappy I would get a sugar high just reading them. Others just made no sense at all and I wondered if the person was high on something when they wrote it. I gave up poetry for songwriting, not realizing of course that it was technically the same thing, only you didn't repeat one verse over and over again. Eventually, I found myself dabbling in poetry again for two reasons:

1. It was another creative way of expressing myself.

2. It helped me with writer's block.

There are so many different types of poetry, that at first I found it hard to let words flow. I constantly wondered if I was doing it right. I shouldn't have worried. Poetry comes from deep down in your soul, like a work of fiction - it just flows in a different way.

There are over 50 types of poetry. Haiku, Senryu, Odes, Sonnets, Ballads, Free Verse, Limericks, Blank Verse, Lyrics and of course Rhyme - to name a few.

For those of you out there who are poets, the following exercise will not be anything new to you. For those who don't make poetry a regular part of your life - now is a good time to start - especially if you are feeling somewhat "blah" in your writing of late. I recommend writing something poetic at least once a week. Not just to ward of writer's block, but to explore your own thoughts, feelings, fears, etc. - to get out what is inside you - be it tears, frustration, happiness or love - poetry is good therapy.

Today, try an ABC poem. What's an ABC poem you ask? An ABC poem has a series of lines that create a mood, picture, or feeling. Lines are made up of words and phrases. The first word of line 1 begins with an A, the first word of line 2 begins with a B and so on.

Example of ABC poem - author unknown

Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow

Now it's your turn. Finish the poem or start your own. Have fun and happy writing!

Why Writers Need Field Trips

2011-07-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

In a previous post I talked about the importance of a writing schedule. But what about the importance of practice? How much time do you put into practising the art of writing?

If you write everyday by working on your blog, column, book, etc. that is not practice. That is getting your job done. Practice is something different. For example, as a singer I would rehearse my songs for an upcoming event, but I would practice my scales and breathing daily. I would see my singing coach once a week as well. Everyone practices. Dancers, singers, instrumentalists, football players, etc., you get the idea.

Unfortunately, most of the professions I just mentioned have coaches to spur them on. Writers on the other hand, are usually alone with their thoughts. Which is why practising can be a challenge if you don't have something or someone to spur you on.

So, we are going on a writing field trip!

Well...you are going on a writing field trip. If we were all living near each other, I would actually make this a real field trip...to the beach. But, alas you will have to go without me. However, if you have some writing friends nearby, give them a call and see if they're up for it!

Here is what you need to do:

Choose a location that is filled with people. Not a cafe! Everyone does that! This time go to the beach, the park or even a ball-game, it doesn't matter. Or choose a place you don't normally go to - a train station for example, would be good, but take your pen and your writing book. This is a field trip after all, you will need to take notes!

Once you've chosen your location, find a place where you can observe everyone passing you by.

Write about your surroundings. Describe the people you see. Observe their expressions, their clothing and especially their conversation. I once heard a great line at a train station while waiting for my daughter to arrive and I was kicking myself because I hadn't brought my notebook with me. I heard a guy ask this of the young woman who met him, "Are you sure he doesn't know?" Now, that made my eyebrows go up and a slew of questions flew into my mind for a great story - all from one snippet of conversation.

Be attentive to the conversations around you. Yes, it's not nice to eavesdrop and I don't mean you should be listening in on every conversation like a nosy busy-body. But, if you hear something as someone passes you by that sparks your imagination - write it down! It's not as if you are going to follow them out of the train station to hear the rest of their conversation...I mean it...do not follow them out of the train station!

Ask the five W's and an H - Who, What, Where, When, Why and How about each person you see.

Field trips that are not to your local cafe are something you should plan at least once a month. Now, if you are a cafe kind of person and you go there weekly for inspiration, then that's great! Nothing wrong with that, you are giving your muse free reign and she is probably loving it! But, field trips take a little planning, especially if you are taking others with you and you are going to a new location. So be creative, have fun and let me know how your trip goes!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

Today's picture might get some mystery writer's going. Who is the person in the picture? How did they get in the bottom of the canyon? How will they get out? Are they hiding? In danger? Lost?

Let your imagination soar today!

Happy writing!

Why You Need a Writing Schedule

2011-07-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

When do you write? In the mornings? Evenings? Do you view your writing as a nine to five job, six days a week? Maybe you don't like the term "job" as that has so many restrictive connotations to it, call it what you want, but you still need a writing schedule.

A successful writer will go regularly to their desk at the same time each day. Got kids? Well, you have a challenge before you, but if you make it a habit and let everyone in your family know how serious you are about writing, you can train your children to respect your writing times and take all their complaints to Daddy or the babysitter.

Now, suppose you do have the luxury of working from 9 to 5 everyday, what will you do when Saturday comes and you have one of those "ah-ha!" moments? Do you dash to your office, close the door and apologize for ruining everyone's planned picnic in the park? No! If writing is your job then it comes second place to your family. Those "ah-ha" moments can be jotted down in a notebook and set aside to look at again on Monday morning. The same goes for Sunday too. In fact, writing should never be first place in your life. The order goes like this - God, Family, Job.

If Saturday is your Sabbath then rest from writing, spend time enjoying your family. If Sunday is your Sabbath do the same thing. If you spend one of those days cleaning, then do it in the morning and get your kids involved. The sooner the place is clean the sooner you can get out of the house and have some fun.

The point is this - you need structure and you need rest. If you don't want to burn out before you finish your first book, make sure you take the time to set up a writing schedule and then, reserve your weekends for your family and having fun. You'll be glad you did!

What Do You Do For Writer's Block?

2011-07-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

Writers are creative people, but sometimes that creativity can get "stopped up". So what do you do when you find yourself wordless? That's the good thing about being a creative person - you find something else to do.

Writer's block can be caused by many things - stress, lack of sleep, sickness, financial woes, etc., sometimes we can be so overwhelmed by life that writer's block is our brain's way of saying, "Enough! Switch to something different right now, or I'm going to shut down completely!"

That's where the creative part of you kicks in and you find something else to do that will unplug your block. For me, the choice is obvious. I used to sing, so I switch from the novel I'm writing and try my hand at songwriting or poetry for a while. Here are some other suggestions that might spur your imagination on to creativity:

painting
quilting
scrapbooking
singing
playing a musical instrument
photography
Go to the beach or a local park (take a pen and paper and write down everything you are observing)
A long walk (take your ipod and listen to your favourite music or preacher), make sure you have paper and pen for this too. Those "Ah-Ha!" moments often come when we least expect them.
Watch your favourite movie (listen for good lines and write them down - but don't use them, build on them).
Excercise
Garden
Take a hot bath, with bubbles of course!
Take a nap - this always works for me. My brain just gets tired!
Pray or meditate - not as a last resort, but to refocus your attention on why you write and for Whom.
Learn a new language
Volunteer for something you believe in
Have a bible study

This list could go on and on, but hopefully this will help get you started. What are your favourite ways to get your creative juices flowing?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

How did that picture work out for you last week? Any ideas for a new story? What about this one? A pair of hands wrinkled with age. Who do they belong to? What is their story?

What Are Amazon Rankings?

2011-06-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

When my book came out I would get comments like, "So, what are it's numbers?" and I'd scrunch up my face and say, "$19.99 or $15.00 if you buy it off my website." Then, whoever asked me that would burst out laughing.

I have since learned that "numbers or rankings" can make a new author (probably an experienced one too), depressed one minute and elated the next. So, here is my advice on what new authors should be aware of and probably avoid at all costs if they don't want to fall into a depression or ostracize other writers.

Don't look at your numbers on Amazon Rankings or Book Manager or wherever else you can find them! If they are great, you will be walking around with a goofy smile on your face while bragging to all your writer friends on Facebook (making them depressed because their numbers aren't as good, or angry with you because you strut around like you are the King or Queen of writers) and basically turning everyone off from buying your book. If, on the other hand your numbers are lousy - you'll walk around with a question mark literally hanging above your head all day. Why? Will be on your lips and mind as you try to slog through your next book. Followed by, "Maybe I shouldn't subject the world to my writing any longer." Followed by tears, a tub of ice cream and bed. Your numbers are not you and they are not your book. Plus, they are all subject to the buying moods of the public. My book jumped from 2 million in the ratings to one-hundred thousand overnight once and it kept going up - the occasion? It was Easter and since my book is about Jesus...you get the idea. I expect to see my numbers go up at Christmas as well. Although I won't know that because I refuse to look at them anymore.

Don't Google yourself! Sure, it's fun to see your name everywhere, but one of these days you're going to run across a review that you are not going to like and you'll want to respond and then this will happen. DON'T EVER LET THAT HAPPEN!

Let God have control. If your book is going to sell, if there is a message that needs to be heard - then it will. Give it up and over to God and don't worry about it.

Now, I know publishers and agents probably won't agree with me on any of this. They want those numbers up! So, let your agent and publisher worry about them! Do the best you can at marketing your book and everything else will fall into place. Don't let some crazy numbers make or break your mood for the day.

Just keep on writing and enjoy yourself. The other stuff just gets in the way.

Check Your Ego at the Door

2011-06-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

There are two things that can happen to a writer once they've actually had something published. One, is that they receive excellent reviews and they begin to believe their own press. They are published authors now! (Flip hair back over shoulder here and look down your nose at the rest of us struggling writers and say, "Please no autographs, I've just had my nails done").

Well, that may be a bit much, but you get the idea. Frankly, I've yet to meet a writer who acted like that - actors, yes - writers not so much. However, it is very easy to let your ego get inflated when others are heaping praise on you and that is a dangerous thing, because as a Christian writer you should be seeking God's glory - not your own.

If you are not writing for God and you stumbled here by accident, it is still a dangerous thing, because you end up being so full of yourself that you ostracize everyone around you and you don't want that. Writer's need people. They need editors, agents, publishers, fans, etc., because they help you sell your books.

The other thing that new authors can run into is the pressure that comes with success. If you receive excellent reviews for your first book, you are now going to feel the pressure to either top that book, or at least make it as good as the first one. When that happens you might find yourself so paralysed with fear that you stare at your computer screen all day wondering why you ever thought you could write!

There is a difference between an inflated ego and self-confidence. It is okay to be a confident writer. If you didn't think you had something of value to offer the public then you wouldn't be writing would you? That is not an over-inflated ego. That is someone who can get the job done and display the professionalism to see it through. You know why you are writing and are grateful for the gifts you've been given.

Now, you might be asking where I come off writing about ego. I'm not a successful author what would I know? I've only got one book out! Well, I was a successful singer and at the height of my career I asked God one little question, "If I'm not doing this for you anymore, will you take away my ability to sing?" Be careful what you ask God for - He will take you up on it! Not only did He take away my voice (I developed polyps on my vocal chords just as I was beginning a tour for my first album), but for two years I was not even allowed to hum. Those two years of silence brought me back in line with the Father's will and I didn't start singing again until He said I was ready. Little did I know that those two years would help me many years later when I permanently lost my singing voice to a botched surgery.

The point is this - it is easy to receive praise and just as easy to let it go to your head. Keep your feet on solid ground. Remember who gave you the gift of writing and give Him the glory.

Where Can I go for a Writing Retreat?

2011-06-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

I have just come back from a writer's conference and now I long for a writer's retreat. You may think that would be the same thing, but it isn't.

A writer's conference can be in a "retreat like" setting, however it can be so packed with workshops and classes that you do very little writing. Plus, you are never really alone at a writer's conference. If you are lucky enough to find a quiet spot, chances are some friendly soul will spot you and want to chat. Which is why conferences are so great. It's all about connecting with other writers.

A writing retreat on the other hand, has ample alone time for you to write and think. There are various types of retreats out there today. You can find some that are guided and include other writers. But my personal preference is a cottage with a nice view and me, myself and I. You might prefer a cabin in the woods or a room at a hotel for a week. The point is, that it is time for you to let your creative juices flow, relax and, if it helps, pray. I find my best writing moments are spent with deep prayer and alone time with my Creator first.

But what do you do if you can't afford a week's stay at a hotel, a cabin in the mountains, or a cottage by a lake? You improvise. Do you have a balcony or a backyard? I have a backyard with a nice little pond and early in the mornings I like to sit out there and listen to the water flowing. It brings me a sense of peace as I start my day. Parks are also great for retreats. I am very lucky to have The Thames river running through my town and the prettiest parks are available at my disposal. I take my pen and paper and watch the world walking by when I'm looking for character descriptions. I listen to the sounds around me and then I just go with the flow and I start writing.

What about in the winter when you just can't get out of the house? Try this - light a scented candle, play some soft music (I usually turn on the nature music channel on my T.V., before long I have the noises of crashing waves, birds singing and trees rustling, accompanied by soft music). It's great! Especially in the winter.

Of course writing retreats aren't always about writing. They are about relaxing too. A bathtub full of bubbles and an hour alone is great for taking the tension away - especially with little ones underfoot. Of course you don't want to become so relaxed you don't do any writing at all! That would defeat the purpose of a "writing" retreat.

The point is this - a writing retreat is a time for you to renew your creative spirit, to connect with your inner voice, to read, pray, rest and then let your creative side soar to start a new project or finish one.

What New Writer's Need to Know

2011-06-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

At a recent writer's conference a question was posed on where new writers can go for information. My immediate thought was new information on what? Writing in general or ten easy steps to getting published? It occurred to me that new writers want direction on what to do next. Once they decide to step out into the publishing industry it becomes overwhelming. I know this to be a fact. I have a music industry background and while some of my songs were published the book industry and the music industry were so vastly different that I had no idea what I should be doing, or where I should be going in regards to getting my writing "out there".

First off, I believe most writers are not new to writing. They have been doing it all their lives in one form or another, either through journaling, letter writing, poems, songs, or stories (they wrote and kept to themselves). The need to write, the desire to write will have always been present. Writers have to write.

However, "new writers" in my opinion, are those that have decided after years of writing and keeping it to themselves, that it might be worth pursuing this writing thing as a career. These new writers are the ones I want to address today. I share with you what I have learned since beginning this writing journey myself over 12 years ago.

As a new writer you need to be aware of some things that will help you on your journey to publication. They are the following:

Take writing classes. You will never know it all.

Join a writing community. I belong to Canada's largest community of Christian Writer's - The Word Guild.This group is amazing and has so much to offer! From critique groups, bi-weekly bulletins full of writing news, online help, prayer groups and conferences, I find the writer in me is well-fed.

When you complete your first manuscript realize that you are not done. DO NOT rush out and contact an agent. Do NOT rush out and self-publish. You are no where near that stage - yet.

Your first draft will need editing, that's why it's called your first draft. Expect 10 or more edits (emphasis on the "more") on your entire manuscript. My editor said my manuscript was "clean" but I had gone through it four or five times before I sent it to him. When he went through it, he had changes for me. After I applied those changes I found more things I wanted to change, so it was back and forth several times before I was totally satisfied with the end product. I'm sure we didn't catch everything, but I think I might have had more than 10 edits by the time we were done it was probably closer to 20 from my first draft.

You can never have too many edits.

Listen to your editor. You are paying him/her to help you, so take their advice!

Attend a writer's conference. Take your edited manuscript with you and get a critique from a professional. Write! Canada, the conference I just attended, provides these incredible opportunities to talk with agents, publishers and editors that every new writer should take advantage of. At my first conference, I submitted a new book that I am working on right now for critique, and the publisher wants me to submit a proposal to him. He liked it and expressed his interest. I told him it would be a while until I was done. He said, "Take your time. Send it to me when you are ready." Hopefully, that will be next year!

Start blogging, using Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn. All these social networks will help you when it comes time to submitting your manuscript to a publisher. Why? Because a publisher isn't just trying to sell your book, he's trying to sell you too. If you can show a publisher that you have a certain amount of people who follow you, who would potentially buy your book, that can go a long way.

Write articles, join contests, keep writing.

Finally, have fun. Writing can be a lonely existence and writer's are probably the most insecure people I know. Surround yourself with people who like to have fun and know when to get you out from behind your desk. Take time for yourself, your family and friends and don't give up. You may have the next best seller!

Simple Habits for Writer's That Pay Off Quickly

2011-06-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

Some time ago I stumbled across Christina Katz's website where she graciously allows her interviews and posts on her blog, to be reprinted on other blogs.

Last week I attend Write! Canada and one of the women our instructor recommended to us (as a must read) was Christina. Her book Get Known Before the Book Deal is something every writer should have in their book arsenal.

Today's topic - Prosper in the Gig Economy: Simple Habits for Writer's That Pay Off Quickly!

Money is what writers earn for their time and energy. Furthermore, writing careers are built over time not overnight. So don't put your career in jeopardy by paying attention to everything else at the expense of your bottom line.

Here are nine prosperity-increasing tips that can quickly become habit and put more money in the bank for the same number of hours you already work or maybe even less:

Make a list of paid work vs. unpaid work, if you don't have one already and update it monthly. Add to-dos like upcoming deadlines and prep for future efforts, to make sure you don't have to scramble later.

Prioritize the work you do that is paid over the work you do that is unpaid. This doesn't mean the unpaid work is not important or doesn't need to get done. It simply means that you will get the paid work done first and then tackle the unpaid work.

Spend time with other writers who make money writing. If they are too busy (making money) to spend time with you, sign up for their newsletters, read their blogs or connect with them via social networking whenever possible. When contacting successful writers, keep your expectations realistic. There's a reason they make the big bucks and it's not because they are just hanging out all day. When you are working, whether online or off, be aware of folks who drain your energy or co-opt your time. You simply don't have time for those people when you are supposed to be working.

Don't confuse "nice" people with profitable people. Let's say one writer invests all of his time trying to make sure everyone knows what a great guy he is, while another writer invests his time landing assignments, delivering on deadlines, and landing the next gig. Who is the more successful writer? I'd say it's the more productive writer (the second example). And he's the one I'd be more likely to trust, as well. So go ahead, broadcast your success!

Tackle the types of assignments that pay directly. Forget about any kind of writing job you "might" get paid for. Also don't count writing you do for exposure as "paid." And when someone offers you vague future money for today's actual work, take twice as much time to carefully consider the offer. Why not just take on the sure-thing assignments, which are the projects that pay you directly for your work? If you keep things simple, you are more likely to prosper in both the short run and the long run.

Spend the most time doing whatever you do best even if that means doing a few different things. For example, I don't only write because if I only wrote all day, I'd soon be bored out of my mind, no matter how interesting the topics were that I was writing on. A restless person like me needs to do a variety of things. So I also teach and speak and the three efforts feed each other and increase my overall value as a writer.

However, don't spread yourself too thin. I do a lot of different things but I've noticed that I can only do so many things before I hit overload, especially since I am a busy mom and wife, as well as a working professional. This overload point is going to be different for everyone and can change with your life circumstances, so adjust your expectations accordingly. You want to do everything you do well, not just scrape by.

Capture all of your business expense receipts as the year ticks along so that you can benefit from every deduction available to you when you pay your taxes. I am not the queen of filing things, so I just get a big basket and toss all my receipts in there until I'm ready to sort and report. If you need a primer on the specifics of what you can and can't expense, pick up the March/April issue of Writer's Digest magazine and check out the article, "Taxpertise For Writers" by Bonnie Lee. In fact, the theme of the issue is, "Your Economic Survival Guide," so why not read the whole thing?

Be timely. Seek and adopt the simplest systems to help you meet your deadlines, pay your bills, get your taxes submitted, etc. It doesn't matter which system you use. What matters more is that you make good use of the systems that work best for you and switch when one method stops working for you.

I bet you want to spend as little of your time as possible being inefficient, so that you can get back to writing. So keep things simple: write, earn and prosper. An efficient writer is a profitable writer.

And now if you'll excuse me, I have some writing deadlines to meet.

Christina Katz is the author of the forthcoming Writer’s Digest book, The Writer’s Workout, 366 Tips, Tasks & Techniques From Your Writing Career Coach. She also wrote Get Known Before the Book Deal, Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Author Platform and Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids. Christina holds an MFA in creative writing from Columbia College Chicago and a BA in English from Dartmouth College. A “gentle taskmaster” over the past decade to hundreds of writers, Christina’s students go from unpublished to published, build professional writing career skills, increase their creative confidence, and succeed over time. Christina hosts the Northwest Author Series in Wilsonville, Oregon, where she lives with her husband, daughter, and far too many pets.

You can visit Christina website at christinakatz.com

What Kind of Writer Are You?

2011-06-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm going to take a lesson from a parable that Jesus once told about the Wise Man and the Foolish Man. If you are unfamiliar with the story here it is in a nutshell:

A foolish man built his house upon the sand and the rains came down and the floods came up and his house fell down. The Wise Man on the other hand, built his house upon the rock and when the rains came down and the floods came up, his house stood firm. The story has practical and spiritual meaning. Don't build your house on sand would be the practical. Stand firm on the Rock would be spiritual. In other words, put your faith in God and when the storms in your life come (and they will) you will still be standing firm when they are over.

Taking this application a little further I would like to apply it to writers. Some are foolish and some are wise. Which one are you?

A wise writer works hard toward publication. Practising everyday.

A foolish writer thinks success will be immediate and writes when he feels like it.

A wise writer keeps on learning his craft.

A foolish writer thinks she knows it all.

A wise writer edits and edits some more until he feels what he has produced is worthy for submission.

A foolish writer thinks everything they write is gold and needs no changes.

A wise writer listens to their editor.

A foolish writer argues with their editor.

A wise writer is always professional.

A foolish writer hounds agents and publishers at conferences to the point where they are annoying.

A wise writer accepts rejection and criticism well and learns from it.

A foolish writer whines and complains about their rejection slips and does not take criticism well.

A wise writer takes advantage of opportunities: entering contests, going to conferences and submitting articles, etc.

A foolish writer never tries, complaining that everything is too hard.

A wise writer encourages other writers, knowing that they can learn from them.

A foolish writer thinks he/she is the best writer in the world and announces it to everyone.

A wise writer keeps on writing even if they never get published.

A foolish writer gives up when everything gets too hard.

So, are you going to fall to pieces and give up when your writing career doesn't take off? Or, are you going to stand firm in the knowledge that you are doing your best?

Be a wise writer - stand firm!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday I am going to post a picture. It will either be scenic like the one below, or something to get you thinking. That's the point. I know someone who wrote an entire novel based on a picture. So, let's get your creative juices flowing. What does this picture say to you?

What Do You Need to be a Successful Writer?

2011-06-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

Do you know why you want to write? If you don't, then you might have a problem succeeding as a writer. Why? Because one of the first things you need, to be a successful writer, is the desire to write! Without that desire, you won't be willing to sacrifice the time, money and energy that writing requires. Writing will be a chore, something you "have to do" rather than something you "want to do". If you don't have that passion to create you won't make it as a successful writer.

Of course, it isn't just about desire, you also need discipline. Right now you may not be getting paid to write, but someday you will be. So start disciplining yourself now to look at your writing in a professional manner. Get up in the morning as if you were going to a real job. (Writing is a real job, but you know what I mean). Your writing space is your "office" and you need to acknowledge to yourself and everyone else that this is your job. Your family needs to recognize that when you are at your desk, table (or wherever you write) you are NOT TO BE DISTURBED. Discipline yourself by going to it everyday. Write something everyday. Set deadlines, because someday you will be required to meet deadlines and behave in a very professional manner. Do it now, so it won't seem foreign to you when it actually happens.

Be committed to learning about your craft. I used to sing professionally, but I ALWAYS took singing lessons. I practised my craft. Now, I take online courses, attend workshops, go to conferences, read books on writing, participate in a writing group, etc. You can never learn too much. It will only improve your writing.

Be willing to take criticism. If you ask for a critique of your work (say from a professional at a writer's conference), don't argue with them when they suggest it needs more work. Take those valuable tips and learn from them. Listen to your friends, your critique group, etc. They aren't being mean, they only want you to be the best you can be. So, be the best you can be! Smile, say "Thank you," and move on.

Finally, when someone asks you what you do for a living, even if you aren't getting paid, say with confidence, "I AM A WRITER!" Believe it. Soak it in and repeat it to yourself as often as you can.

Say it with me now ... I am a writer.

Now go to work and happy writing!

Do You Have What it Takes?

2011-06-20T08:21:00.000-07:00

Writing is a lonely business. As someone who is an extrovert I have found this to be the hardest aspect of writing. However, I get re-energized once a year at the Write! Canada conference. Hosted by The Word Guild, the conference, held in Guelph, Ontario, is a gold-mine for writers looking to connect with like-minded people. I love the continuing classes, workshops, plenaries and private meetings with editors, agents and publishers. However, for me the best part is renewing old friendships and establishing new ones.

In addition, I learn something new every year and this year was no different. That is what I would like to talk about today. By asking new writers (and old) one question that was posed in a class I attended - "Do you have what it takes?"

And I don't mean writing.

One thing new writers need to know is this - it isn't about how great your book is - it is about you. Can you make money for a publisher? Do you already have a readership? Or, as it was put in one of the sessions I attended (a tribe)? In other words - do you have people who follow you now?

Right now, before you begin writing that book, you need to position yourself on the Internet and locally, as someone who can deliver the goods. Those "goods" are people who follow you and will buy your book when it comes out. Now, I myself don't have (by the looks of things) a great many people following me on this blog and that is entirely my fault. Why? I haven't been keeping this blog up-to-date, but I plan to remedy that by posting regularly from now on. On the other hand, my other blog Interviews & Reviews had over 1500 views last month and since its inception has had over 15,000 hits. Why? I keep it up-to-date and the content is relevant to my readers.

Blogging is only part of my "tribe". I also have followers on Twitter, Facebook and my website. So, this week get yourself connected. Set up a blog, get on Twitter and Facebook. Do what you can now, to build up your reader base, so that when it comes time to pitch your book to a publisher you can say with confidence - "Yes, I have what it takes!"

If you are just starting out, leave a link here and I'll link back to you. That way we'll help each other!

Is It Too Late for the Independent Bookstore?

2011-06-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like the feel and smell of a book. From hard cover books with gilded edges to paperback books, nothing could be better (at least for this reader), than to curl up in my favourite chair and get lost in another world for an hour or two.

When I was growing up, my love of books was cultivated by our school library and the book-mobile which came once a week. When I think about it now, I realize I leaned slightly on the nerdy side. To me, the book mobile was like a candy store and the driver would constantly have to remind me that there was a limit on how many books I could take out. Best of all? They were free! As I grew older, my desire to keep the books I read grew, and over time I have acquired quite a collection.

Recently, one of my favourite Christian bookstores The Upper Room, in London, Ontario, announced that it would be closing its doors after 32 years in business. I feel like I am losing my best friend. Unfortunately, it is a story that I'm hearing all too often lately. Small independent bookstore owners are struggling to keep afloat due in large part to the Internet and eBook readers.

Recently, Amazon announced that it is selling more eBooks than print books, after releasing the Kindle a mere four years ago! It isn't just eBooks though that have hit bookstores hard. It is the incredibly low prices that are offered by online book sellers like Amazon and Christianbook.com.

So, what can we do to help the small independent bookstore owner? Here are a few suggestions:

Promote them. Do it by word of mouth, or social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook.

Visit them at least once a month and buy something! Bookstores are more than just about books now. Some, especially Christian Bookstores, have CD's, DVD's, greeting cards,home decor items and a cafe to sit and read those books!

Are you a writer with a new book out? Ask the store owner if you can have a book signing in their store and then tell everyone you know about it. Someone might discover a new favourite place to hang out!

Are you a bookstore owner? Welcome authors into your store. Yes, it might be a hassle arranging signings, but you might get new customers because of them.

Parents, instill in your children the love of books. I can't say this enough! Read to them everyday and make a trip to the library or bookstore a weekly event.

As a way of helping my favourite bookstores, I'm going to leave a link to some of them below. Check them out and leave a comment with a link of your favourite store. Let's help keep these businesses alive for many more years to come!

Creation Bookstore - London,Ontario
Faith Family Books & Gifts - Scarborough, Ontario
Gospel Text Bookstore - Chatham, Ontario
Emmanuel Book Shop - Hamilton, Ontario
Lighthouse Family Bookstore & Cafe - Sarnia, Ontario
Christian Gifts & Books - Barrie, Ontario

Are Book Signings Worth It?

2011-02-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

It's only fair that I address the other side of the coin here. In my last post I talked about blog tours and if they were effective. On my website, I have a blog where I post regularly. This week I posted about Book Signings. I'd like to share that with you here. If you are interested you can follow my blog at www.laurajdavis.com. Below, is what I posted.

This past weekend I was at Faith Family Books in Scarborough. I've never been in that store before. It was like the Chapter's of Christian books. I was spellbound and found it very hard to stay put and not go exploring. So many books...I was like Homer Simpson with his tongue hanging out the side of his mouth, drooling...aaahh, books!

While I was there a marriage seminar was being held in the cafe (yes, they had a cafe with real food and coffee). I was not the only author in the store that day either. The other author there had a book on marriage. "Great!" I thought. "He is having a seminar and selling his books. Why am I here again?" But, the seminar was just a coincidence. It was being held by someone else, who had no books to sell. Again, I thought - "This guy is going to clean up!"

Then, it started to snow - a lot. It got so bad I couldn't see outside the window. The store manager said, she'd never seen it so dead in there. I sighed. It was going to be one of those kind of book signings.

For the past month and a half, I have experienced the highs and lows of book signings. The highs have been great. Where I've had lines of people at my table and books were selling faster than I could replace them. At other times I wondered if they were worth it - I still do.

The repeated refrain on Saturday was - "Don't think of how many books you aren't selling, think of the exposure." Faith Family Books did everything in their power to "expose" me, by sending out 20,000 flyers/email notices (the one above) to their customers to announce that I was coming. Hmm...maybe that was why it was so dead in there on Saturday. :)

I saw lots of people who nodded politely, averted their eyes and continued walking on by. That did not deter me in my efforts to "be exposed". I began talking to whoever walked by me - about anything. They stayed, chatted and said, "Good luck with your book!" then walked away - without a book. I changed my tactics. If anyone came near, I blurted out, "Can I tell you about my book?" Out of politeness some said yes, and wonder of wonders I started selling books! Others would listen and then say, "That's nice dear" and walk away as if they had just given their dog a pat on the head.

Yes, book signings are not always confidence builders.

They do however, provide ample opportunity to share your faith, something I have done at every signing, because people will always ask me why I wrote my book. Not everyone in a Christian bookstore has faith in Jesus Christ. Some have faith, but are struggling spiritually. Without fail, these are the ones the Lord sends to me. Yes, they might go away with a book, but I hope they go away with more than that - inspiration to continue to fight the good fight or start a new journey in life with the One who gave up His life for them.

So, are book signings worth it? Financially, if you include gas, hotels and meals, then no. They are not worth it (unless you are famous and people are lining up around the block for your book). But, if you aren't famous, save your money and have a blog tour. They are cheap and you can stay in your pyjamas.

However, if you're like me and enjoy talking to strangers, which sometimes can lead to life-changing conversations, then by all means, continue to get out there with your book. You never know, where God will take you.

Are Blog Tours Effective?

2011-02-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

What is a Blog Tour? I have had that question asked of me constantly this past week. It seems the concept is not quite understood by everyone. Therefore, I will try to do my best to explain what they are, what is involved and if I think they are worth it for authors.

What is a Blog Tour?

A Blog Tour is a Virtual Book Tour, only you (as the author) never leave home. Over several or more blogs, your book is featured on the same day. Some blog tours feature it for the week. If the tour is run well, the owners of the blogs (bloggers) that host your book, will also review your book. This is what you as an author want - genuine reviews from real people. These are not (for the most part) professional reviews. However, nothing spreads faster than word of mouth and many bloggers out there today have huge followings. So, any publicity you can get is a good thing.

How does a Blog Tour work?

That depends on who you go with and what you expect. The Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is probably the best known virtual book tour for Christian books on the internet. However, they charge $500 for a Blog Tour. Below, is what you can expect to get for your investment that other Blog Tour groups may not provide:

A three day tour slot
A listing in their online Christian Fiction Magazine
A link to the first chapter of the book included in the standard post, along with the full list of reviewers and their sites, so that author publicists can search for good blurbs.
Free 410px wide X 110px tall banner ad space
Interview time on their CFBA Network Radio station on Blog TalkRadio
Quality assurance that your book will be posted by members as agreed upon.

Compare that service with the First Wild Card Tour Group which is free. Here is what they offer.

Reviews over as many blogs as you send books. In other words, if you send 20 books you will get 20 reviews. However, this is not guaranteed.
First chapter visibility on reviewers blogs.
Info on author

I personally, have not used CFBA, so I cannot attest to their effectiveness. However, I have used FIRST (in fact, I am a member of FIRST) and for the most part I was satisfied. I sent out about 14 books and expected 14 reviews. However, that did not happen. I received about 5 reviews, while the others just posted the first chapter of my book. While I was disappointed that some people would ask to review my book and then not post a review, I looked at it this way - the service is free, you get what you pay for.

With both of these options you still have to consider your postage costs. If you go with FIRST you only pay for postage. My book was expensive to send, about $200 in postage all total. Even though I didn't get what I thought I was getting (reviews) I still got free publicity for a fraction of the cost of doing a tour with CFBA. Unfortunately, CFBA does not guarantee reviews either, so that is also something to take into account when you are dolling out the bucks.

Is a Blog Tour Worth it?

Yes! Definitely! I received some amazing reviews for Come to Me. Some of them had me blubbering like an idiot and I'll take five good reviews, over no reviews at all! For the most part, people are honest. They will post about your book. They may not review it, but that's okay. If the chapter insert interests even one person, your book will be talked about and ultimately that is what you want - people talking about your book. Nothing spreads faster than word of mouth.

I just realized that I probably should have posted my tour. You can find all the blogs that posted reviews and the first chapter of Come to Me over on my website at http://www.laurajdavis.com

***UPDATE*** I am happy to report that I have had one more review posted. It seems that problems arose with the reviewers Internet service and she couldn't post her review. You can read it here.

How to Get Your Writing Organized

2011-02-03T06:50:00.000-08:00

Once again, Randy Ingermanson has some helpful hints for us today. While he sent this post in January, I think it is still a valuable resource for the rest of the year. Thank you Randy!

Organizing: Divide and Conquer

You've got a whole year ahead of you. How do you plan to spend it and what do you hope to get done?

See what's on your plate . . .

If you haven't thought about that yet, take five minutes and write down on a clean sheet of paper all the stuff on your plate. Write it all down, big stuff, little stuff, and everything in between.

If you're like everyone else, you've got many things in your life besides writing. You want to get them all done, and you only have one life, so put everything on the same list. Do this now, before you read on. Get it all on paper where you can see it.

Pretty daunting, isn't it? The nice thing with writing these things down is that they're out of your head and onto paper. So now you can focus on doing things without worrying that you'll forget something.

Map out your year . . .

For the moment, ignore all the small stuff like taking out the garbage or changing tires on the cat. Circle in red all the big things you want to do this year. Finishing the first draft of your novel, maybe. Or editing your manuscript. Conducting a search for an agent. Selling your novel. Promoting it. Probably not all of the above, but definitely one or two of them.

And certainly you'll have a few big non-writing projects on your list. Maybe you want to refinance the house or redo the back yard or take a class or have a wedding. If it's important to you and it's time-consuming, put it on the list.

Your big tasks are, by definition, big. You won't get them all done in January. Write all the big projects on a list of their own, labeled "Projects For This Year." Most of them will take weeks or months to do. Make estimates for how long they'll take, either in weeks or months.

You've now divided your year into more manageable chunks. Your goal is to conquer them, one by one. Most of them are going to take longer than you think. That's part of life. If the time estimates on your list add up to more than 8 months, then you probably won't get them all done this year.

I've been mapping out my year lately, and I have 24 projects listed. That's a lot, but the good news is that most of them should realistically take only one or two weeks, so I have a good chance of getting most of them done this year.

Map out your month . . .

Because life is unpredictable, it really doesn't make sense to try to plan out the whole year in detail. Circle the first few projects you want to get done -- enough to fill up the coming month.

Now take a clean sheet of paper and write only those first few projects on it. Your goal for this month is to knock them all off your list. If you've only got one big project and it's going to take more than a month, that's OK. Your goal for this month is to get as much of that project done as possible.

You'll also have some other smaller tasks that need doing this month. These were the "small stuff" items that you ignored on your first list. Add them to your list for this month. Keep adding tasks until the month looks full.

You've now divided your month into a set of manageable tasks. If you've done your job well, you've got a full month ahead of you, but it's doable.

For this month, I have four projects that are all related and that I want to wrap up all at the same time. I'm certain they won't all get done in January, so I've set a deadline in mid-February for the four of them as a single package. They're all on my list to work on in January, but I've also got 11 other "small stuff" things that are going to take up part of the month. Life happens.

Map out your week . . .

You can plan your week in the same way as you planned your month. Look at the list for the month and circle the big things you can finish this week, or at least work on. Also circle the "small stuff" items you want to do this week. Write them all on a clean sheet of paper of things to do this week.

For this week, I've got 13 items on my list. Some of them are five-minute tasks that were too trivial to put on the plan for the month, but they need to get done this week, so they're on the list. I've already got three of them punched out and I've got another couple almost done.

Map out your day . . .

Once you've got a To Do List for the week, it's not hard to plan each day. Pick off a few things from your week's list and add in any small-stuff items for the day. Some of these might be things you do every day, like getting the mail or tracking your time for the day or whatever.

For today, I've got 11 items on my list and 5 of them are already done. I'll probably get most of them crossed off. If not, tomorrow is another day.

If you want to get a lot done, divide and conquer. Don't try to plan all the big and all the little stuff for your entire year, (or your entire month or entire week). Things come up that you can't plan.

Plan the big stuff and let the small stuff find its way into the cracks in your schedule.

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "The Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 23,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.

Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

How to Write a Press Release

2011-01-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

I've been extremely busy of late and I apologize for my lack of attention here. I had a book that came out just before Christmas (Come to Me) and I feel like I have been going nonstop since its release.

There is a lot to do when promoting a book. Publishers expect their authors to do their share of marketing and that is exactly what I've been doing. One of the things that was rather time consuming for me, were writing press releases. I find press releases rather daunting. Fortunately, I have great friends who helped me out and a great publisher who gave me a list a mile long on who to send my releases to. So, I thought if anyone else is in the same boat, that I would share with you what I have learned about press releases. Hopefully, when you write your first release it won't feel as daunting!

First, make sure that you have your contact information at the top of your release. I put mine on the left hand-side. If you have letterhead, you can put it there. As long as it's visible. This info should include your name, email address, phone number and website. You can also include your snail-mail address.

Next, in capitol letters write - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. If it isn't for immediate release, then indicate that with the date you want it released.

Now you need a catchy headline, in bold letters, with each word capitalized in a font size at least two points larger than the body of your release. My catchy headline for Come to Me was - Writer Brings Jesus to Life. It was daring, but it worked. I was interviewed on air and received promotion in a local paper for a book signing. One radio station talked about my book, just from information they gleaned off my website. They never even called me!

Directly beneath your catchy headline you need a tag line that explains what the first line is about. Mine was - New Novel Explores the Humanity of Christ. This line does not need to be boldface and should be at least one point smaller than the font in the headline.

Truthfully, those two lines were the hardest part of my release! You must remember that you are sending these releases out to reporters who get hundreds of these things a day. If you can't grab their attention in that headline, they are not going to bother reading the rest of your release.

Now comes the body of your press release. Remember these rules - Who, What, Where, When and Why. You will need all these answered in your release. But first...

In boldface, state where you are and the date. For me it looked like this:

London, Ontario - November 22, 2010 - Now, you type your first paragraph,directly after the date!

The body of your press release should include no more than three paragraphs. If you can include a quote from someone, for example an endorsement for a book, then do so. If possible try to keep your press release all on one page.

Finish your release with information about yourself.

Now, the next part I am lost on, some say you finish the release like this ###, and it should be centered. Others say different, but every website and person I have talked to, save one, have always finished the release as above, so I'm going with the number signs. If anyone out there knows any better, let me know. Why the number signs? It indicates that the body of your release is finished. You can put extra information below it if you like, for example info on where your book is sold, etc.

That's it! That's all I know. I hope this helps you when you write your next release.

How To Have a Successful Book Launch

2010-11-28T12:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I launched my book Come to Me. Now, I'm no expert on book launches, but I have learned something from my experience and if it can help anyone out there with their own book launch then - great! So, here are some do's and don'ts for a successful book launch.

Do treat your launch like a celebration. This is your time to shine. Make the most of it!
Do send out invitations to everyone you know. I was pleasantly surprised to see many new and old friends stop by yesterday to say hi. Many bought books. Thank you my friends!
Do send out press releases. The more publicity the better.
Do make up posters. Have a picture of your book and yourself, with info on where the event will be held. Give this poster to the bookstore owner and hang it up in other places around town as well, like your local library.
Do make bookmarks with a picture of your book on it and an endorsement. Also include a few words about yourself, including your website address and email contact.
Do have business cards ready. Yesterday, I couldn't find mine. I searched my house high and low and came up empty. I THOUGHT I had some left - never assume. Make sure you have everything you need, weeks before the day arrives.
Do have brochures or postcards handy. Include information about yourself, your book and if you speak, where you can be reached for speaking engagements. Make sure to include endorsements about your book and your speaking.
Don't sit at your table the whole time. Mingle! Take those brochures and postcards and hand them out to the customers. Let them know who you are. Tell them about your book. Get them interested enough to drop by your table.
Do make sure you have a book-stand for your book. Place one on your table and one at the checkout counter.
Do bring food and something to drink for the customers. It's a celebration after all! Make sure the food is near you, so that you can talk to the customers who drop by. I would only do this for a book launch, because it is a celebratory time. I can't see myself dragging food to every book-signing. That would be too expensive. Yesterday, I provided brownies, apple cider and another little pastry that I got at Costco. I've known some authors to provide a slab of cake with the words, "Congratulations!" on the top, or the name of their book.
Do decorate your table. I had a helium balloon that said "Let's Celebrate!" beside my table. I sprinkled the table with decorative gold stars and included my pen and books. You could also go with a theme central to your book. However, unless you know the size of your table before hand, it's best not to plan too much.
Do make sure you keep in touch with the bookstore owner before your day arrives. Make sure they will provide a table and that people will be able to find you. I have a signing coming up soon and have already been told they are going to put me in the back of the store, which means I will have to find a way to draw people back to me.
Do (if you can) bring a helper. I have the best friend in the world who greeted people as they came in the door, gave them a bookmark and invited them over to my table to look at my book and have a drink of cider.
Yesterday, I provided a gift-basket in a draw and had people fill out their names for a chance to win. I now I have a list of email contacts that I will use to contact these people when my next book comes out. I will also ask if they would like to receive my quarterly newsletter. Do not betray your customer's trust - keep their information private and don't badger them. Once you've made initial contact, let them decide if they want to hear from you again.
Don't forget to take pictures! Yesterday was incredibly hectic and while I got a few pictures with friends who dropped by, I forgot to get a picture of myself behind my table, or even holding my book!
Do be prepared to talk about your book. Yesterday, I gave a reading and at first I thought people would be too busy to stop and listen to me (it was a sale day and people were only interested in getting in and getting out of the store), but God bless them all - they stopped listened and even applauded afterwards.
Do be inventive. I had a deal on yesterday - buy one book and get 20% off the second one. That was a great success!
Do be sure to thank your hosts, not just on your way out, but with a follow-up thank you card. Do the same with your helpers and friends who dropped by.

I hope that helps. If you have any more suggestions for book launches or book signings, I'd love to hear them. In the meantime - have a great book launch!

What are the Different Types of Editing?

2010-10-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

So, you've written a book and you've gone over it a thousand times. You've shown it to your friends and family and maybe they caught one or two typos, or suggested different wording here and there. But, is it good enough to submit to a publisher? Probably not. You need to give your work to a professional, so that they can bring the added polish you need to your manuscript.

When you are hiring an editor make sure you know what you are getting. I know from personal experience that this is essential. I recently payed for what I thought was going to be a substantive edit, but when I kept finding mistakes in my manuscript after it came back from my editor, I went back to my contract and realized I was not getting a substantive edit, but a copy edit. So, what is the difference? How many different types of editing services are out there? I did some research and this is what I've found.

Developmental/Project Editing - a developmental editor assists the author as a writing coach by taking the rough draft of your manuscript from its initial concept and makes suggestions about content, organization, and presentation. A developmental editor will incorporate input from the author, reviewers and consultants. Plot and characterization will be analyzed and reworked if needed. Suggestions will be given for rewriting confusing and awkward areas to create better flow. Sentence structure, punctuation, grammar and spelling may also be considered. This type of editor is basically with you from the beginning, helping you to develop your manuscript.

Substantive or Structural Editing - many times this type of edit may mean rewriting your entire manuscript! So, don't take it personally. A substantive edit can involve marking errors in punctuation, grammar and spelling, editorial comments on style, structure, content and flow. It will involve reorganizing sections and paragraphs for better flow of content. Heavy editing will check URL links, captions, references, foot notes, quotes, bibliography,etc. to make sure permission has been granted to use copyrighted material. It will check your formatting, page numbers, index, table of contents, etc., to make sure everything is where it should be. This is where you have to let go of your book and trust your editor because many times they will want to change something that you don't want changed. You need to keep in mind that they are trying to present you with a clean manuscript, so trusting your editor is important.

Copy-Editing - A copy editor will check for grammar, style and punctuation. They will also make sure your work is complete and consistent. Usually, a copy-editor works on a manuscript that has already been heavily edited. Formatting styles, such as headlines in bold, are checked for consistency as well.

Proofreading - is not done by your mother after you have written your manuscript! Proofreading is done after your MS has already been heavily edited by a professional. Although many people use the terms interchangeably, editing and proofreading are two different stages of the revision process. Both demand close and careful reading, but they focus on different aspects of the writing and employ different techniques. Basically, copy editors get involved in the book production process at an earlier stage than proofreaders. Typically, once a book has been commissioned, a copy editor will work with the author to bring it up to a publishable standard. The proofreader comes in once the typesetter has set the book. Their job is to read the typeset 'proofs' and mark up any errors they find. Unlike the copy editor, the proofreader is not concerned with improving the text, and it is not their role to make stylistic changes. Their job is simply to look for clear mistakes (typos, omissions, etc.) and ensure that they do not make it into the finished book.

One more word on editing - just because someone hangs out a sign and says they "do editing" does not make them an editor. Editors - good ones, will have had special training and should be certified. If they aren't certified and can't show you the proof that they are, just say "thanks, but no thanks" and be on your way. The same goes for proofreaders. You may love to read and might catch the occasional error in a novel here and there, but that doesn't make you a proofreader. Again, they have training and are certified as well. Investigate your editor/proofreader before you place your work in their hands. You'll be glad you did!

Part Three - Marketing the Billion-Dollar Book

2010-09-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

Today is part three of To E or Not to E, with guest blogger Randy Ingermanson. Today Randy is talking about marketing.

I think it's plausible that in the next five years, some author somewhere will write a book that earns him or her a billion dollars. I call that a "B-book."

Who will that lucky author be?

Let's not be silly. Luck will have nothing to do with it. Great writing and great marketing will have everything to do with it.

If I had to hazard a guess on who will be first to publish a B-book, I'd say J.K. Rowling has the best shot. The 7-book Harry Potter series has reputedly earned her a billion dollars, so a B-book is quite possibly in her future.

If not JKR, then James Patterson is my bet for the next likeliest candidate. If not him, possibly one of the other heavy hitters in the publishing world.

Truth to tell, however, I wouldn't bet even money on any one of these candidates.

In my view, the most likely author of that first B-book will be some unknown author who comes out of nowhere with great writing and an A+ marketing game.

While I can't guess who will be the first B-book author, I am reasonably confident that the B-book itself will earn most of its revenue in electronic formats.

Prediction #1: The first B-book will be an e-book.

The reason is that you can't have great sales without great distribution. There are roughly a billion computers on the planet connected to the Internet and all of them can read e-books in numerous formats using free software. There are roughly four billion mobile devices, and most of those will soon be able to read e-books.

The sales channel for e-books is growing rapidly and has global reach. That's why the first B-book will be in e-format.

What about the price of the first B-book? The higher the price, the fewer the number of copies you have to sell to earn a billion dollars, but the fewer the number of people willing to pay the price.

If your royalties are $1 per book, you could earn a billion dollars by selling a billion copies. Or you could get there by earning $10 royalties per book on 100 million copies.

Nobody knows the sweet spot, but my guess is that it's somewhere between those extremes. If I had to guess, I'd say that a $2 royalty on half a billion copies is the best way to get your B-book. I can't prove this. It's a hunch based on incomplete information.

The reason I think this is plausible is because if you price an e-book at $2.99 on Amazon, then you earn a 70% royalty, which translates to $2.09. That means you'd need to sell about 478 million copies.

(Note that Amazon charges you a small amount for delivery costs when it sells your e-book. For a typical novel, this amounts to a few cents per copy, so things aren't quite as rosy as I've painted them, but it's a close approximation.)

I'd say that a large fraction of the 4 billion people who can afford a mobile device can afford a $2.99 e-book. And the vast majority of the one billion computer owners with Internet access can buy that book.

It's possible that the sweet spot price is $3.99 instead. At a 70% royalty, you'd only have to sell 358 million copies. Great news, eh?

If you try running these numbers with typical royalties paid on hardcover, trade paper, or mass market paperback, you see right away how much harder it is to get your B-book. Most of the money charged for these formats is going to somebody who isn't you. That means the retail price has to go a lot higher or you have to sell many more copies. And delivery costs are much higher for a physical book than for an e-book.

This leads immediately to my next prediction.

Prediction #2: The first B-book will be self-published.

Self-publishing is the best way to get the royalty rate high enough and the retail price low enough to make the B-book a reality.

The fact is that most publishers aren't going to price your e-book at $2.99 or $3.99. They'll want it at $9.99 or $12.99, which is probably too high for the market. And they'll pay you only 25% royalties on the wholesale price, which is too low. If you want an aggressively priced e-book and a high royalty rate, you'll almost certainly need to publish it yourself.

Of course it may be that all of the above is just my wishful fantasy, but if you're with me so far, let's ask how you're going to market a few hundred million copies of a self-published e-book.

You can't do that alone. You need what Seth Godin calls a "tribe." In the context of book publishing, your tribe is your set of committed fans. They're the people you lead.

You don't have the marketing oomph to reach hundreds of millions of people on your own. You do have the marketing oomph to reach thousands or tens of thousands of people. If you can energize them so that they love what you've got and if they're willing to spread the word, then they can reach those hundreds of millions.

Want proof on that? I don't have absolute proof, but I have three words that ought to be persuasive if you were awake two years ago:

Barack Obama 2008.

President Obama raised an estimated $656 million in individual contributions for his presidential campaign. He raised that by tapping into the social networks. In a word, he built a powerful tribe of committed followers.

Now it's true that Obama didn't hit quite a billion dollars, but he came close and he had an end-point for his marketing campaign. Presidential campaigns end with the election. Books stay on the market as long as they're selling.

Let me sketch out how I foresee the first B-book will happen. I'll probably be wrong on some details, but the general picture is plausible:

* First write a great book. There is no substitute for excellent writing. I define that to be, "Writing which provides a Powerful Emotional Experience." Style is less important here than raw emotive force. See any current best-seller list for proof of that.

* Self-publish the book as an e-book and put it up for sale on all the usual sales channels: Amazon, B&N, etc.

* While you're at it, create your own online store where you can sell your e-book in all the common formats: text, PDF, RTF, Mobi, ePub, etc. Don't count on this bringing in a billion bucks on its own, but you can't beat the royalty rate, and there's just no reason not to do this.

* Post a large fraction of your book on your web site. I'd recommend at least half the book. Enough so that your readers can really get hooked on the story.
Include links to your sales channels, along with incentives to buy. (Access to online "Director's Cut" material would make a nice incentive. Don't be offended, but a date with you would probably make a bad incentive.)

* Early on, you might jump-start sales with a special low price. Publishers can do "free Kindle" campaigns that seed the market with early fans by setting the price of the e-book to zero for a short time. (Don't try that with a paper book!) You probably can't do this if you self-publish your book, but you can set the price to $.99, which is almost free.

* Focus your marketing efforts on your tribe. Who is most likely to love your story? Build your web presence to appeal to them.

* Communicate to your tribe. Treat them as special, because they are. These are the people most like you. These are the folks who read your blog and subscribe to your e-mail list.

* Enable your tribe to communicate to you. They can do that through comments on your blog and by sending you personal e-mails. You can and should automate part of this by using online surveys -- this will let you go broad. But don't forget to go deep too -- your tribe deserves personal responses from you. These are your people. Do right by them.

* Empower your tribe to communicate to each other. Your tribe is excited about your great writing. Naturally, they want to talk to like-minded people. Make that easy by giving them an online place to gather and talk -- a forum is ideal for this. Join them when you can, but give them the space to be leaders. A large tribe needs many sub-chiefs. Foster those leaders. If you can, give them the ability to add content to your fan site.

* Encourage your tribe to communicate to the world. Give them buttons on your web site to Twitter or Facebook about you to their circles of influence.
Collectively, your tribe knows a lot more people than you do. Your tribe can sell your book better than you can.

* Team up with similar authors who have similar tribes. Your fans will love these authors and their fans will love you. If I can switch metaphors here, remember that "the bigger the hive, the bigger the buzz."

* That's it. Don't do things that sap your energy or drain your money or monopolize your time. You are finite. That's OK.

You may be saying, "But what about book-signings? Speaking engagements? Giving away free copies in drawings on your blogs? Library visits? Yada yada screama?"

What about them? Those may move a few copies or a few dozen or a few hundred. They may be fine things to do once in a while for your tribe. They aren't going to make a B-book for you.

Think about it. How many book-signings would you have to do to sell a hundred million copies? You will never book-sign your way to a B-book.

There isn't any magic bean you can eat that will make you a B-book author. You need outstanding writing and a marketing campaign that you can automate as much as possible, so it doesn't require ten times as much work to get ten times the results. You need strong, loyal fans who brag about your great writing to their friends.

Very few authors will ever write a B-book. It's a lot easier (but still Xtremely difficult) to write an M-book -- earning a million dollars. It's vastly easier to write a K-book -- one that earns a thousand dollars.

Most authors will fall somewhere on that spectrum. Now here's the good news. No matter where you fall on the range, from B-book to M-book to K-book, the principles above can help you market your work more effectively.

That's good news for all of us.

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 22,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com. Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Part Two - How to Create an E-Book With Amazon

2010-09-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

Randy Ingermanson is back today with part two of To E or Not to E? This is long, but well worth it. The last article will be posted tomorrow.

This article summarizes much of what you need to know to create an e-book for sale on Amazon, but it can't possibly be a complete guide. For all the detailed directions, along with all the rules and terms of service, see the official Amazon page at:
http://dtp.amazon.com

Creating an e-book for Amazon is easy if you have everything you need. Here are the main things you need to have before you start:

* A copy of your manuscript in Microsoft Word format
* A high-resolution image of the cover of your book
* Microsoft Word software

Here are the five steps you need to take:

* Verify you have the rights to the manuscript
* Verify you have the rights to the cover art
* Tweak the manuscript formatting in Word
* Convert the Word document to HTML
* Upload the e-book to Amazon

Let's tackle these steps in order:

Step 1: Verify that you have the manuscript rights

You must make sure that you own the rights to publish your book.

If you've never sold the rights to your book, then you still own them and everything is fine.

If you previously sold your book to a publisher, then they own the rights for the length of time specified in your contract. Normally this is as long as they keep the book in print, PLUS some period of time during which they have the option to put the book back in print.

This means that if your book is still in print, your publisher owns the rights and you can't put the book on Amazon. Your publisher needs to do it (although you can help them.)

Even if your book is out of print, you must get a letter from your publisher that states explicitly that they are reverting rights to you. This can take some time, often a year or two. These days, publishers are very chary of reverting rights to authors. Good luck!

Please note that the rights to publish a book are different from the copyright. Normally, when you sell a book to a publisher, they put the copyright in your name. Yet they own the rights to publish until they revert them to you.

Step 2: Verify that you have the cover art rights

You must have cover art for your book in order to publish it as an e-book on Amazon or any of the other online retailers.

Typically, cover art must be fairly high resolution.
Amazon wants an image at 72 dots per inch and at least 500 pixels wide but no more than 1200 pixels high. A nice size to shoot for is 600 by 900 pixels. Currently, Amazon will accept only images in TIFF or JPEG format.

You must own the rights to the cover art in order to use it for your e-book.

If you made the cover yourself, then you own the rights. (If your art includes stock photos or other art that you didn't create yourself, you may need to pay a royalty to the photographer or artist. Be legal and pay them, for the same reason that people who read your book should be legal and pay you.)

If you hired an artist to create your cover art, then you probably own the rights. Make sure your agreement with the artist says that you do. Also, make sure that you or the artist have paid the royalties for any stock photos or other art that went into your cover.

If a publisher paid for the cover art, then they might agree to sell you the rights to use it if you ask. Or not. It's up to them whether they'll sell. In some cases, they may not be able to sell the rights. In other cases, you may not like the original cover and you might decide to hire an artist or do it yourself.

Step 3: Tweak the formatting of the manuscript in Word

This may be a lot of work or a little, depending on what shape the manuscript is in. Make a copy of your original manuscript and work only on the copy, because you may make substantial changes in order to make it look good as an e-book. You don't want to mess up the original.

E-books generally don't have fixed amounts of text on each page. The text in your e-book needs to "flow" from page to page. This is because e-book readers have many different sizes of screen, and many of them let you resize the type. An e-book is not like a paper book with a fixed number of words on each page!

The bottom line is that you need to make sure that the text of your e-book will look good, no matter what e-book reader is used. You don't really want to use the typeset pages from your original paper edition (if your book was previously published). Nor do you want the pages to look exactly as they appear in Microsoft Word.

For the Amazon Kindle, you'll need to convert your Word document into HTML (the standard language of web pages). Don't panic! Word lets you save your document in HTML format very easily. But before you do that, you'll need to format the document so that the HTML will look good.

The following guidelines will generally give you a manuscript that will translate pretty well into HTML:

* Click the icon in your toolbar to show all
nonprinting characters, such as tabs and carriage
returns.
* Insert your cover art file as the first page of your
Word document.
* Edit the next page to show your title and copyright
information.
* If the quote marks in your manuscript are "straight
quotes," change them to "curly quotes."
* Change all your paragraph styles to use only
single-spacing.
* If you used spaces or tabs to indent paragraphs,
remove them.
* Change all your paragraph styles to indent paragraphs
automatically.
* If you used tabs to center text horizontally, remove
them.
* If text needs to be centered horizontally use the
alignment icon from the toolbar or formatting palette.
* If you added extra blank lines between paragraphs,
remove them.
* If you have more than two consecutive blank lines
anywhere in the text, delete all but two of them.
* If you turned on right-justification or
full-justification anywhere in the text, change it to
left-justification.
* Set your fonts for all text to be Times-Roman or
Times New Roman (one or the other, but not both).
* Set the font sizes for all text to be 12 points or 14
points (12 for the normal text, 14 for the title and
chapter numbers and any other headers)
* If you have text boxes anywhere in the manuscript,
copy and paste the text from them to the main text of
the document and remove the text boxes.
* If you have tables anywhere in the text, convert them
to images, insert the images into the text, and remove
the tables.
* If you use automatic page numbering anywhere in the
text, remove it.
* If you have headers or footers anywhere in the text,
remove them.
* When you've done all of the above and your manuscript
looks good as a Word document, save your file.

If you don't know how to do any part of the above, I recommend that you check out the Smashwords web site at http://www.smashwords.com

There, you'll find a number of documents that explain all the details of e-books. Get the document named "The Smashwords Style Guide." This is a long document that explains everything in a lot of detail and shows a number of pictures. (I can't include pictures in this text e-mail.)

If you haven't been to the Smashwords web site yet, I highly recommend it. They have a tool that will automate the process of creating an e-book in many different formats (include the Kindle format used on Amazon). You can upload a Word document to Smashwords and their tool will do all the conversions. But the Word document you upload has to be cleaned up pretty much as I've outlined above.

By the way, Smashwords has an excellent online store that can sell your e-book for you. They pay you an 85% royalty, which is excellent. They're very fair to authors. However, Amazon is the big tuna of sales channels, and if you want to maximize your sales, you should be on Amazon too (and the Barnes & Noble site at http://www.bn.com and as many other sites as you can).

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 22,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.

Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Guest Post by Randy Ingermanson - To E or Not to E?

2010-09-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

If you don't subscribe to Randy Ingermanson's ezine, you should. He always has interesting articles and encourages those who receive his articles to post them on their blogs or email them to friends. Which is why I'm going to be sharing his latest ezine with you over the next couple of days. It's long, but well worth the read. Now, here's Randy with part one on the value of E-books.

Two days ago, I was eating a bowl of Cheerios for breakfast and reading blogs on my iPad.

One of the blogs had a guest entry by an author I'd never heard of, Scott Nicholson. Within a couple of minutes, I decided he sounded interesting, so I clicked on the Amazon link for his novel, THE RED CHURCH.

The book looked pretty good, and the price was right, only $2.99. It carried an endorsement by an author I know. I decided to buy it.

I clicked the dropdown menu to select delivery to my iPad. Then I clicked the "Buy now with 1-Click" button. Then I opened the Kindle app on my iPad and waited a few seconds while the book downloaded.

The whole operation took about four minutes from the time I began reading the blog until the time I was reading the book. Less time than it took to eat half a bowl of Cheerios.

That is the great new world of publishing that we are now moving into. It's a world some authors fear. It's a world some authors welcome. Rightly so, on both counts. We're seeing massive change in the publishing world, and change is always scary. It's right for authors to feel fear.

However, this kind of change is good for authors. Scott first published that novel in 2002. Eventually, it went out of print, as most books do. He got the rights to the book reverted to him and then uploaded the book to Amazon just before New Year's Day, 2010. Now the book is getting a new chance at new readers, and earning Scott 70% royalties on Amazon. That's some pretty good pocket change. It's right for authors to welcome that kind of change.

Scott is using what I call the "Konrath model" of publishing his books. Joe Konrath is a major proponent of this method, which is extremely simple:

* You write an original novel or get back the rights to
a book you previously published.
* If necessary, you pay a freelance editor to edit the
book and a graphic artist to create a cover.
* You format the manuscript appropriately in Microsoft
Word and then upload it to Amazon, naming yourself as
the publisher.
* You set the price at whatever price point you think
will earn you the most.
* You earn money. If your price point is between $2.99
and $9.99, then Amazon pays you 70% of the price on all
sales within the US. Otherwise, Amazon pays you 35%.

If you've been following Joe Konrath's blog, then you know that he's self-pubbed several books on Amazon. Currently, those books are earning him a total of about $500 per day, on average. That's $3500 per week of passive revenue. Not bad for a few hours of work to format each book and then punch the button to upload it.

"That's fine for Joe," most authors say, "but it won't work for me."

This is true. If you believe the Konrath model won't work for you, then you will do nothing and . . . it won't work for you.

Outcomes in life often depend on what you believe they'll be. But you know that, so I won't belabor the "self-fulfilling prophecy" thing.

The real question is whether the Konrath model WOULD work for you if you tried it. There's only one way to answer that question for certain, and you know perfectly well what that is: Try it and see.

But before you try it, you should first ask if it's plausible that it could work. After all, it'd be a shame to waste several hours of work and then earn nothing.

Who is most likely to benefit from the Konrath model?

That's easy. Famous authors. Authors whose name will already sell boatloads of books. In publishing jargon, "A-list authors."

Of course, A-listers would sell boatloads of copies anyway, just by doing what they're doing now, which is to work with publishers who buy the rights to both the paper version and the e-books. So A-listers are going to succeed whether they e-publish or not.

Should an A-lister quit his publisher and try the Konrath model? Seth Godin just announced that he's going to do precisely that. (Actually, Seth goes far beyond the Konrath model.)

Seth is a marketing genius who's written a dozen best-sellers and done well. But he's got a terrific web presence and he's a little tired of waiting for the wheels of publishing to grind out his books, so he's planning to just market his ideas on his own from now on.

You can read Seth's reasons for doing this on his blog. There are plenty of A-listers who are content to let their publishers pay for editing, graphics, marketing, and all that. There's nothing wrong with that.

But I'll bet that very soon, marketing-savvy A-listers are going to start releasing their work first as e-books so they can earn higher profits. Then they'll license the rights for the p-books (paper books) to publishers. There's nothing wrong with that, either.

There's another group who can also benefit right away: Mid-list authors who own the rights to their out-of-print books.

The huge benefit mid-listers will have here is that an out-of-print book has already received a substantive edit, copy edit, and line edit from a team of professionals.

If your book is out of print, you can typically get a Word document from your publisher with the final edited version of your manuscript for $50 to $100. If you can also buy the rights to the cover art, then you have everything you need to republish the book as an e-book. (You can't always get the rights to the art, and in some cases you may not want it.)

What about unpublished writers? Can they also benefit?

That depends. Yes, they can e-publish their novels and reap the rewards, just like the A-listers and the mid-listers. But they'll have to pay for it.

Remember that a publisher risks a substantial amount of money upfront to publish a book. They have to pay for all of the following before the book ever hits the shelves in any store:

* An advance to the author
* Salaries of several editors and proofreaders
* Cost of designing the cover art
* Salaries of the typesetters and other technicians
* Salaries of the sales, marketing, and publicity teams
* Rent for the building and cost to outfit it
* Cost of an initial print run

The advance usually runs from a few thousand dollars up to a few tens of thousands of dollars. The other costs can add up to several more tens of thousands of dollars. The publisher risks a lot of money! That's why they earn so much of the revenue from the book.

If an author e-publishes his book, then he must foot some of these costs:

* The author gets no advance
* The author must pay for any editing and proofreading
* The author must pay for a cover design

Note that A-listers and mid-listers who decide to self-publish a book FIRST as an e-book have to deal with these same costs. A-listers can afford them.
Mid-listers have to weigh the benefits, exactly the way the unpublished writer does.

Should you e-publish or shouldn't you?

Only you can decide that.

If you've got rights to an out-of-print book that was edited by a royalty-paying publisher, and if you've bought the rights to the cover art, then it seems obvious that e-publishing is a smart move.

Otherwise, you need to decide whether you can tolerate getting no advance, whether you can afford to pay for a good edit and a good cover, and whether you can market your novel effectively. If you can do all of these, then it makes sense to try. If not, then it doesn't.

This leaves open two major questions:

* How do you get a book ready to e-publish?
* How do you market an e-book effectively?

I'll post part two of Randy's article tomorrow, where he will answer those questions.

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 22,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com. Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Marketing the Self-Published Book

2010-08-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

So you want to self-publish? Are you ready for the time and money it takes to market a self-published book? Have you thought this through carefully? Okay then ... read on.

First, it has to be stressed that you will not get rich writing. That was the first thing out of my teacher's mouth in my writing class. She went on to say, that if you live in Canada making money at writing is even worse. Oh, she was really encouraging that one! Yet, we listened, we took notes and all of us in that class thought the same thing ... we will be the ones to make the difference. We will be the next J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, etc. She saw the look of denial on our faces, shook her head and laughed. I wondered why she was so pessimistic about writing. Then I looked at her books. She had lots of 'em. But she had the worst book covers I've ever seen! It didn't surprise me she wasn't making money, but it did surprise me that someone who was teaching a writing class had no knowledge of how to market herself.

If you are going to self-publish you have to treat it as a business. You are not just a writer. You are now an editor, publisher, marketer, promoter, etc. you are the be all, end all of whether or not your book will sell. Do you have a business plan? I bet you don't. When I first started writing I didn't think about stuff like that. Who needs a business plan? I'm a writer for crying out loud! But, as the prospect of self-publishing became more appealing to me, I realized that a business plan was something I needed for a few reasons:

I had a limited amount of money to invest and I needed to know where it was going at all times.
I now had to market myself and my book. Promoting my book was weird, promoting myself was downright uncomfortable - I needed a plan.

Unfortunately, I didn't realize it, until after my book came out! That's when I started scrambling. Big mistake! But, I love making mistakes because I learn from them. So, here are some things I have learned over the years in regards to self-publishing. I hope they help you as you pursue your writing career.

Write out a business plan - It will cover everything from how much you intend to spend, to how you will market your book and to whom. You can't be all things to all people. Know who you are writing your book for and market it directly to them!
Always get an editor - I know they are expensive, but trust me on this one. Dole out the bucks, it'll be worth it in the long run and you won't have to be embarrassed by typos and grammar goofs when your book comes out. Make sure that is included as part of your business plan.
Always be prepared - take your books with you wherever you go. Have business cards on hand too. I once sold a book to a lady in a restaurant. I didn't know her, but she knew my mother and wanted a copy of my book. Luckily, I had some in my car! Remember, you are like a door to door salesman - always be prepared, but don't be obnoxious. There's nothing worse than a pushy salesperson.
Get a professional to design your cover - Some books have great covers and horrible stories. Others have horrible covers and great stories. Unfortunately, most people do judge a book by it's cover, so spend the money - get it done.
Make sure you have a one-sheet - just because you are not a professional writer doesn't mean you can't act like one. A one-sheet gives the details about you and your book. You can see an example here. Again, this will be part of your marketing plan. Should you get a professional to design it? Yes, you should.
Network - We attend writer's conferences to learn? Meet people? Sell our books? All of the above? Yes, it's the last one. Never pass up a chance to go to a writer's conference. You will make life-long friends, learn something new and you might possibly interest a publisher or agent in your book. Look at William P. Young, author of The Shack for instance. Did you know he originally self-published this book?
Find Your platform - I've talked about this before.
Finally, be inventive - there are lots of ways to market a book. Is your book on gardening? Try phoning a gardening store and ask if they would be willing to have a book signing there. Hit the speciality shops. Do you have a book on parenting? Make yourself available for baby showers and give a free book to the mom to be. If it's fiction you write, dig a little deeper. Is it historical fiction? Call a museum and see if they will take your books on consignment or agree to a book signing. Science Fiction? Attend Comic-Con and sell it there, or Fan Expo in Canada.

Now, after saying all that, if you do get published by a 'real' publisher don't think you are off the hook. You will still have to do all these things! Publishers like to know their authors are active in selling their books. So, don't think you can sit back and relax because after you've written your book the real work has just begun!

How Do I Write a Synopsis?

2010-07-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

How do you write a synopsis? One chapter at a time. Yes, after you have slaved over your novel, after you've done the edits, rewrites, corrections, etc. then you have to go through it one more time and look at it with fresh eyes.

Some writers do this as they are writing. This is called an outline. It is helpful to have around. It keeps character names, places, motives, settings, ages, hair colour, etc. in tidy order, so when you make changes to your novel, this outline will help you keep things straight. The outline will be a life saver when you are writing your synopsis. It is usually done BEFORE you write your story. However, some people (like me, until recently) don't like to use outlines. They just write, not wanting to let the flow of words stop. But, eventually they will stop. Why? Because they don't know where they are going next, because they didn't outline their story first!

Instead, on your final read through, with the help of your outline, write a one or two paragraph summary of each chapter explaining what happened, where, and who it happened to. Look for themes as well. Why did you write your book? Did you have a theme or lesson you wanted your readers to take away? With my first book Come to Me, I didn't realize I had placed the theme of surrendering to God throughout the book, until a TV producer pointed it out to me! My goal in the book, was to share the Gospel, but my subconscious placed that theme throughout its pages. So pay careful attention to any themes you see and jot them down because you will want to include them in your cover letter.

So how do you make your synopsis interesting? Start with the main character and his or her crisis. Include snippets of dialogue, the character's motivations, emotions, etc. Look at each chapter as a story on its own. Keep the sentences and paragraphs short, but build up the interest. Think of it as your blurb for the back of your book. When you are done, the editor should have a fairly good idea of your story and it's theme.

How long should a synopsis be? Editors are busy people - two to ten pages would be fine. Five would be ideal. One would be heaven! Remember, your entire story has to fit into your synopsis, including the ending, so make it gripping and make sure it is in present tense.

As for format, there is some debate, but to be on the safe side, double space and format it much like you did your manuscript.

One last bit of advice - you are creating a marketing tool. If you can keep an editor interested in your synopsis, expect them to contact you for the rest of your manuscript. Happy Writing!

Why Do I Have to Write A Synopsis?

2010-07-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

Ack! The most dreaded words in the English language are I Want You To Write An Essay - well at least for those still in school. Do you remember the first time your teacher said those words? You fervently hoped the essay would be on something that interested you and everyone always wanted the essay to be about two things - What I want for Christmas or What I Did on my Summer Vacation. I'm obviously dating myself, but seriously that is the type of essay we hoped for in school. Sometimes we lucked out, other times ... eh ... not so much.

But now you are a writer and all the groans you ever emitted back when your teacher wanted you to write an essay, have come full circle. Now, you have to write a synopsis. The first time I found out what a synopsis was, I wanted to forget about writing entirely and go live in the outback somewhere. Seriously, I just wrote an entire novel and now I have to write about what happens in every chapter? Where's the fun in that?

Well, it's not fun, not at all, but it is necessary if you want to sell your manuscript. The synopsis is your sales pitch. It is the most important part of your submission package and you would do well to polish it as much as you polish your novel before you submit it anywhere. The synopsis is what sells the editor on your manuscript, if they don't like it, it is unlikely they will look at your manuscript.

So, that is why you have to write a synopsis. How do you do it? I'll let you know tomorrow.

Something Fun For Everyone

2010-07-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

It's summer, so you may be taking this time to travel to the cottage and write. Or, you may be stuck with screaming kids and have no time to write at all! Yeah, been there - done that. I feel your pain and can hear your nerves screaming for peace and quiet. You are longing to sit down and write something. Undisturbed. Well, here's your chance and it will only take about 5 minutes of your day or more, depending on how involved you want to be.

This summer at The Writer's Keep we are going to write a story. But, it will be more than that. It will be, especially for new writers, an opportunity to see how the writing process works. Think of it as a joint Nanowrimo event that will go all summer. We'll write a story together and see what happens. Make all your comments in the comment section and I will update the story as we go along. Tell your friends about this! Especially those who are just beginning to write, because we are going to start at the beginning. From creation, through to character development - the whole lot. This will take us throughout the summer, ending on August 27, 2010. We'll begin right away. So jump right in.

There is only one rule - no foul language or sexual content will be allowed.

Our first order of business is Plot. What do we want this story to be about? Don't go into a lot of detail, just the key concepts, people and events. Think about it and we'll decide as a group, which way we are heading. So get your creative juices flowing. Call your friends. Get your children/teens to join in - we are going to keep our creative juices flowing this summer.

Write! Canada

2010-06-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

I just returned from Write! Canada, a three day writers conference set in a beautiful campground in Guelph,Ontario. Writers come from all over for this conference. I met people from the States, Quebec, Alberta, Nova Scotia and yes there were quite a few from Ontario.

The conference is preceded by a writing Gala the night before where the best of the previous year are honoured. The following are winners whose books I have reviewed at Interviews & Reviews .I highly recommend picking them up.

Nikki Rosen's, In the Eye of Deception - for the Life Stories category.

Mags Storey, If Only You Knew - this book won in both the Young Adult and Romance categories.

Bonnie Grove,Talking to the Dead - for the Contemporary Novel category.

Eric E. Wright, Captives of Minara - for the Mystery/Suspense category.

Awards of Merit go to Bonnie Grove for Your Best You and Linda Hall for Shadows on the River. Two other books I had the pleasure of reviewing.

For a complete list of all the winners this year, visit http://canadianchristianwritingawards.com/

Congratulations to all the winners!

For Writers Everywhere

2010-06-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Only Writing Rules You'll Ever Need

2010-06-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Is Social Networking Important?

2010-06-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

I must apologize for my absence of late. I've been trying to get some writing done and updating my blog was coming in second place. I am sure as writers you can understand. Which brings me to a question that is popping up lately in a few forums that I visit. Is social networking worth it? Will you sell a lot of books if you are on Facebook, Twitter or even Blogger? Probably not - unless you have written a runaway bestseller and you are well known. However, do I need these platforms to get my name out there? Unfortunately, yes you do. You need to get your name out there before you sell your first book. Why? Because like it or not, social networking via the Internet is the new normal.

Usually, the best way to start is with a blog. It doesn't matter what you write about as long as you get your name out there. However, word to the wise, be careful about what you write. It WILL come back to haunt you. Choose your subject carefully. If you write about how much your life sucks and then decide later on that you want to write self-help books, no one is going to buy your book!

So how do I know social networking works? During the Olympics, I followed the Torch and its bearers as they ran across Canada. One night I happened upon a live forum on the CTV website (for my American friends, that is our equivalent to NBC here in Canada). Anyway, as I was cheering on the runners, a stranger spotted my name. He asked me if I was the Laura Davis who wrote the book Come to Me. I said I was. He said, "My mom has your book. What is it about?" So I told him and pointed him to my website. Five minutes later he came back and said, "I just bought your book on Amazon." I was shocked. Mainly because he could have borrowed the book from his mom! But he didn't and a confirmation from Amazon confirmed to me that he had in fact bought my book. Did social networking help me? In that case, yes it did.

However, social networking can have its downfalls. I often find that I can get sidetracked on Facebook. There are too many temptations for someone like me who loves to spend her downtime playing computer games. I originally started my Facebook page as a place where my family, which goes from one side of the country to the other, could meet and connect. Today, I have 187 friends, most of whom I don't know. So, I started a Fan Page, but the time spent on updating these pages has taken time away from my writing. So, I have to make a choice - be a social butterfly or get some writing done. Which is not an easy thing for me. My grade eight teacher wrote in my report card that "Laura is merely here to socialize." Ha! She had me pegged.

So, is social networking important to your career as a writer? Yes it is. Do I have to have a Facebook account and a blog? No, you can still network the old fashioned way. Go to writing conferences, join a writing group, start a book club. These are all forms of networking. Should you have a Facebook page, a Twitter account or a blog? You should have at least one, because in the end it will only benefit you when you get that book deal.

I've Decided to Be a Writer - Now What Do I Do?

2010-05-18T06:40:00.000-07:00

So, the writing bug has you hooked. You have stories galore in your head that you are itching to get down on paper. Naturally, you start writing them down and voila! You have written your first novel. Congratulations! Now what do you do with it?

Most first time writers make the tragic mistake of thinking everything they have written is perfect, that there is no room for improvement. They pass copies of their masterpieces to anyone who will read them (usually friends and family) and not surprisingly, they get glowing reviews. Encouraged, they decide to submit their precious gems to several publishing houses, only to have rejection after rejection come back. At first they are shocked and then slowly, they become discouraged and begin to wonder if they should be writing at all. Maybe, they ask themselves, the publishing houses don't like my work because I'm not good enough. At this point, a dedicated writer will take another look at their work. If they're smart they will get another writer's opinion. Unfortunately, some writers give up and never realize their full potential.

I want to say today, if you are one of those writers - don't give up. Writing takes practise and I don't care how talented you are, if you are not writing something everyday you will never improve. I sang for years and was professionally trained, but I never stopped taking singing lessons and I never let one day go by without practising my craft. There is ALWAYS room for improvement.

That said, what should the novice writer be doing to improve their craft? Here are a few suggestions:

Take writing courses. I realize some people have a natural talent for writing (I had a natural talent for singing), but you still need instruction from professionals. Pay the bucks, take the courses. You won't regret it.

Write something everyday. It doesn't matter what you write - a journal, letters, a blog, grocery lists - just write something!

Join a critique group. You will find other writers who can help you along your journey. They will give you an unbiased opinion and encourage you along the way, unlike Mom & Dad and your best friend who think every word you write is a blessing from God. Critique groups aren't mean. They don't make fun of what you've written (at least they shouldn't). They are a valuable resource for novice writers and for professional writers as well.

Read books on writing. There are tons of them out there and all offer something you can put into practise.

Go to a writer's conference. An investment worth making and one of the best ones is starting soon. Write! Canada is a part of The Word Guild and attracts writers of all styles and ages. This conference has incredible learning opportunities for every writer, no matter where they are in their journey. I will be there this year and I can hardly wait. The conference begins June 17 to 19 and there is still time to sign up!

Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite! The first draft is called a first draft for a reason. After you've written your piece go back through it with a critical eye and edit, rewrite and edit some more.

Don't rely on spell-check. It doesn't always work, especially where grammar is important. This is where you take advantage of your family and friends and ask them to go over your manuscript with a fine tooth comb looking for typos and grammar mistakes.

Hire a professional editor. They will make valuable suggestions, point out flaws, correct grammar. If you can afford one, it's worth it.

Don't give up. J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter series was rejected by 12 different publishers before it was picked up by Bloomsbury. Sometimes persistence and rewrites pay off.

Do You Make These Spelling Mistakes?

2010-05-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

We do it all the time, either unintentionally through speedy fingers creating typos, or we simply don't know the correct spelling of a certain word. Whatever the problem, there are some words that are constantly misspelled. Here are a few and their correct spellings.

Weather - Use this when you are talking about rain, snow, tornadoes - you know - weather!

Whether - Yes, it does have an 'h' after the 'w' and no it is not used when talking about the weather.

Witch - Use only when talking about Samantha Stephens or ugly old hags with powers.

Four - This is the number.

Fore - You yell this when you are on the golf course.

For - What do you use this one for? Everything else!

Principle - It's the principle of the thing - you know that thing!

Principal - My Principal gave me a book to doodle in when I was a kid. He really did!

Two - The number.

Too - Use this when you have too many choices.

To - Use this when you don't have a choice. I'm kidding - you know when to use this.

Scent - Use this when referring to smells.

Sense - Use this when you are trying to make sense of something.

Cents - Use this when you go on a shopping spree.

Believe it or not, some of us still struggle with these words. I hope this helps.

Is It One Word or Two?

2010-05-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Picking up from yesterday's post, there are other words that can drive a writer crazy in relation to whether or not they are one word or two. I admit I am the worst offender! Below are some of those words and how you should use them.

A While or Awhile? - Both words have the same meaning but awhile has the word for built into its meaning. For example, "I'll wait here awhile", is correct because you can also say, "I'll wait here for a while." For is built into it's meaning. You would not say, "I'll wait here for awhile", because you would be using the word for twice - given that awhile=for a while. Get it? How about another example? "I'll be there in awhile" is not correct because we would not say, "I'll be there in for a while." I hope that helps.

Altogether or All together? - Altogether is an adverb meaning, completely or entirely. "When he saw the movie he was altogether baffled." All together is a phrase meaning in a group. "We were all together at Janet's party."

Taken Back or Taken Aback? - When you are startled by something you are taken aback. When you are dealing with your past you are taken back to that time.

Apart or A Part? - This is a strange one because the one-word form implies separation and the two-word form implies union. You'd think it would be the other way around. For example - The angry couple lived apart. Their time together would always be a part of their lives they would never forget.

I am sure there are many more of these kinds of words out there, but that's all I can think of for now. If you have any to add, please do so in the comments. Tomorrow, let's look at common spelling mistakes. You'll be surprised at what you'll find.

Are You Using the Right Words?

2010-05-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Today it's time for some grammar lessons. We all need them from time to time because - well - we get sloppy. We are rushing to meet deadlines or we are too tired to notice what we've done, or maybe we're just not sure which word is appropriate. So, over the next few days I'm going to give you a list of words that you can print out and keep close by, so that you will never have to doubt again.

Let's start with words that confuse us, I'll try to add more everyday as time allows:

Then vs. Than - If you are talking about time, choose then. If you are talking about comparisons choose than. I am shorter than my husband (than is the comparison word). Turn on the TV, then turn the channel (then is the time word, it indicates that something is going to happen).

Further vs. Farther - Further denotes advancement to a greater degree, as in time. You further your education. You read further in the book. Farther denotes physical advancement in distance. It is farther down the road.

Afterwords vs. Afterwards - Afterwords are the notes you would find after an essay or a speech, they are made out of words (easy way to remember). Afterwards references time. We went out for coffee afterwards. It didn't happen until afterwards.

Except vs. Accept - These are easy to remember because the X in except denotes excluding things or to stand out, or be different. I would buy that dress except it costs too much. Accept is more agreeable. I accepted their invitation or I accepted the award.

Assent vs. Ascent - This one is easy. Assent is a verb, meaning agreement or consent. Ascent is a noun meaning climb.

Check back later and I'll have more for you.

Get Known Before The Book Deal

2010-05-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

Let's tie this platform subject up with an interview I stumbled across quite by accident. I love it when things like this happen! The author is Christina Katz, who - when you go to her web page - allows you to download and share her interviews and other neat stuff on your blogs - as long as you link back to her. As I visited her website, I discovered she has written a book on platforms Get Known Before the Book Deal and did an interview on the subject as well. How lucky is that? I realize this is mainly a plug for her book and I probably should have put this over at Interviews & Reviews, but she impressed me so much, I'm going to buy one, so I thought you might like to hear about her book as well. So, without further ado, here is Christina.

Q: What is a platform?

CK: Long story short: Your platform communicates your expertise to others, and it works all the time so you don’t have to. Your platform includes your Web presence, any public speaking you do, the classes you teach, the media contacts you’ve established, the articles you’ve published, and any other means you currently have for making your name and your future books known to a viable readership. If others already recognize your expertise on a given topic or for a specific audience or both, then that is your platform.

A platform-strong writer is a writer with influence. Get Known explains in plain English, without buzzwords, how any writer can stand out from the crowd of other writers and get the book deal. The book clears an easy-to-follow path through a formerly confusing forest of ideas so that even the most inexperienced platform-builder can get started building a solid platform.

Q: Why is platform development important for writers today?

CK: Learning about and working on a solid platform plan gives writers an edge in selling books. Agents and editors have known this for years and have been looking for platform-strong writers and getting them deals. But from the writer’s point-of-view, there has not been enough information on platform development to help unprepared writers put their best platform forward.

Now suddenly, there is a flood of information on platform, not all necessarily comprehensive, useful or well organized for folks who don’t have a platform yet. Writers can promote themselves in a gradual, grounded manner without feeling like they are selling out. I do it, I teach other writers to do it, I write about it on an ongoing basis, and I encourage all writers to heed the trend. And hopefully, I communicate how in a practical, step-by-step manner that can serve any writer. Something we never hear enough is that platform development is an inside job requiring concentration, thoughtfulness and a consideration of personal values.

Q: Why was a book on platform development needed?

CK: At every conference I presented, I took polls and found that about 50 percent of attendees expressed a desire for a clearer understanding of platform. Some were completely in the dark about it, even though they were attending a conference in hopes of landing a book deal. Writers often underestimate how important platform is and they often don’t leverage the platform they already have as much as they could. Since book deals are granted largely based on the impressiveness of a writer’s platform, I wanted to address the communication gap.

My intention was that Get Known would be the book every writer would want to read before attending a writer’s conference, and that it would increase any writer’s chances of landing a book deal whether they pitched in-person or by query. As I wrote the book, I saw how this type of information was being offered online as “insider secrets” at outrageous prices. No one should have to pay thousands of dollars for the information they can find in my book for the price of a paperback! Seriously. You can even ask your library to order it and read it for free.

Q: What is the key idea behind Get Known Before the Book Deal?

CK: Getting known doesn’t take a lot of money, but it does take an understanding of platform, and the investment of time, skills and consistent effort to build one. Marketing experience and technological expertise are also not necessary. I show how to avoid the biggest time and money-waster, which is not understanding who your platform is for and why – and hopefully save writers from the confusion and inertia that can result from either information overload or not taking the big picture into account before they jump into writing for traditional publication.

Q: Why is there so much confusion about platform among writers?

CK: Often writers with weak platforms are over-confident that they can impress agents and editors, while others with decent platforms are under-confident or aren’t stressing their platform-strength enough. Writers have to wear so many hats these days, we can use all the help we can get. Platform development is a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Anyone can do it, but most don’t or won’t because they either don’t understand what is being asked for, or they haven’t overcome their own resistance to the idea. Get Known offers a concrete plan that can help any writer make gains in the rapidly changing and increasingly competitive publishing landscape.

Q: What is the structure of the book and why did you choose it?

CK: Get Known has three sections: section one is mostly stories and cautionary tales, section two has a lot of to-do lists any writer should be able to use, and section three is how to articulate your platform clearly and concisely so you won’t waste a single minute wondering if you are on the right track.

Most of the platform books already out there were for authors, not writers or aspiring authors. To make platform evolution easy to comprehend, I dialed the concepts back to the beginning and talked about what it’s like to try and find your place in the world as an author way before you’ve signed a contract, even before you’ve written a book proposal. No one had done that before in a book for writers. I felt writers needed a context in which to chart a course towards platform development that would not be completely overwhelming.

Q: At the front of Get Known, you discuss four phases of the authoring process. What are they?

CK: First comes the platform development and building phase. In this phase you are developing authority and trust. Second comes the book proposal development phase (or if you are writing fiction, the book-writing phase). In this phase, you are leveraging your expertise and your persuasive writing skills. Third, comes the actual writing of the book (for fiction writers this is likely the re-writing of the book). In this phase, you demonstrate that you are a skilled writer, who understands how to craft polished prose. And finally, once the book is published, comes the book marketing and promoting phase. In this final phase, you leverage all your existing influence and connect with as many readers as you can.

Many first-time authors scramble once they get a book deal if they haven’t done a thorough job on the platform development phase. Writers who already have a platform have influence with a fan base, and they can leverage that influence no matter what kind of book they write. Writing a book is a lot easier if you are not struggling to find readers for the book at the same time. Again, agents and editors have known this for a long time.

Q: What are some common platform mistakes writers make?

CK: Here are a few:

• They don’t spend time clarifying who they are to others.

• They don’t zoom in specifically on what they offer.

• They confuse socializing with platform development.

• They think about themselves too much and their audience not enough.

• They don’t precisely articulate all they offer so others get it immediately.

• They don’t create a plan before they jump online.

• They undervalue the platform they already have.

• They are overconfident and think they have a solid platform when they have only made a beginning.

• They burn out from trying to figure out platform as they go.

• They imitate “insider secrets” instead of trusting their own instincts.

• They blog like crazy for six months and then look at their bank accounts and abandon the process as going nowhere.

Suffice it to say that many writers promise publishers they have the ability to make readers seek out and purchase their book. But when it comes time to demonstrate this ability, they can’t deliver.

Q: You write, teach, speak and blog. What motivates you?

CK: My mission is to empower writers to be 100 percent responsible for their writing career success and stop looking to others to do their promotional work for them. Get Known shows writers of every stripe how to become the writer who can not only land a book deal, but also influence future readers to plunk down ten or twenty bucks to purchase their book. It all starts with a little preparation and planning. The rest unfolds from there. But you’ve got to start working on your platform today, if you want to become an author some day. Get Known can help anyone get off to a solid start.

Christina Katz is the author of Get Known Before the Book Deal, Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Author Platform and Writer Mama, How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids for Writer’s Digest Books. She has written hundreds of articles for national, regional, and online publications, presents at literary and publishing events around the country, and is a monthly columnist for the Willamette Writer. Katz publishes a weekly e-zine, The Prosperous Writer, and hosts The Northwest Author Series. She holds an MFA in writing from Columbia College Chicago and a BA from Dartmouth College. A “gentle taskmaster” to her hundred or so students each year, Katz channels over a decade of professional writing experience into success strategies that help writers get on track and get published. Learn more at ChristinaKatz.com.

Finding Your Platform

2010-05-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

In my last post I talked about platforms and how important they are to the writer. Non-fiction writers usually have a ready-made platform, writing from their area of expertise, but the fiction writer has to stretch a bit, to identify the topics they could discuss and narrow them down into a nice little package that would enable them to go out, speak and sell books.

I puzzled with this a great deal when I first started writing because I write fiction. My first book Come to Me, came about through an extremely depressing and difficult time and it wasn't until I had actually talked about it with the producer of 100 Huntley St., that it dawned on me how I had subconsciously placed a theme of surrendering to God during life's worst circumstances throughout the book. I began to see, as people read my book that Mary (Jesus' mother) became a source of inspiration for them and I realized that if I had not surrendered my life to Christ (in the area of writing) Come to Me would never have been written.

My platform became surrendering to God in the face of adversity, something I can develop talks around that bring encouragement to women. Even as I work on my next novel I see the same theme appearing in different forms. Obviously, God is trying to get a point across to me and possibly through me to others.

What about you? Have you seen a theme in your fiction or your own life? When I look back on the last 28 years of my life I realize that I've had some sort of accident or illness to contend with, that has been annoying (slicing my finger open on my honeymoon) to worrisome (tumour) . I've had everything from broken bones to cancer scares and each has helped me to draw closer to God and provided fodder for my fiction.

Today, take a look at what you are working on and see if you can spot a theme. Do the same with your life experiences. Fiction writers can be experts and develop their platforms. It just takes a bit of digging.

What is a Platform And Why Do I Need One?

2010-04-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

In a perfect world the writer would be able to write to his/her heart's content. They would not have to worry about deadlines, proposals, query letters or platforms. A platform? What the heck is a platform? When you look it up in your dictionary you will find myriad meanings to the word. From - "a raised flooring or other horizontal surface, such as, in a hall or meeting place, a stage for use by public speakers, performers, etc.", to "a set of principles; plan", or my personal favourite - "a thick insert of leather, cork, or other sturdy material between the uppers and the sole of a shoe, usually intended for stylish effect or to give added height."

For the writer, a platform is something that communicates your expertise in a particular area. Non-fiction writers usually have wonderful platforms. I point you to Canadian author Sheila Gregoire for example. Her books Honey, I Don't Have a Headache Tonight and To Love, Honour and Vacuum take her around the country speaking at women's retreats, marriage conferences and writing conferences, where she has taken her platform even further by developing a course to help women develop their own speaking ministries. Sheila's knowledge on family, marriage and speaking in general, give her a sphere of influence that publishers love. She can sell her books wherever she speaks, not just in stores. She has an excellent platform.

But what about fiction writers? How do we find our platforms? Well, we have to work a little harder than the non-fiction writer but it can be done. Do you write historical romances? You could be an expert on the era you write about. You could even teach classes on how to write romantic fiction. Heck, why narrow your field? You could teach classes on writing fiction in general. The key is to start building your platform now, before you submit your manuscript to a publisher. Why? Because they want to know if you are someone they can invest in - are you marketable?

I realize of course, that not all writers are comfortable speaking in public and I'm not saying that every writer is suited to this sort of thing, because many are not. However, the writer with an established platform will, in the long run, be more appealing to publishers, the public and will quickly establish you as someone whose books are worth buying.

Fleshing Out Your Characters

2010-04-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

I used to be the type of writer who would get a story idea and just start writing. No planning at all. I would just write. Some writers like to have a detailed outline before they begin. I think they are the wise ones. But others (like myself) are so anxious to get the story on paper and out of our heads, that we would write until we had nothing more to say. I could get halfway through writing a book this way and then hit a brick wall. Writer's block sets in and I couldn't see the end of the story at all. Why? Because I didn't take the time to plan my plot, outline my characters, setting, etc.

It's great to get the creative juices flowing. But once they shut off it's a nightmare to turn them back on again! If you are having this problem, it is probably because you've jumped in to the writing pool with both feet and forgot to take your shoes off. In other words, you didn't plan ahead. So, today we are going to do some planning. I want to start with Character Sketches.

The picture on this page (drawn by my daughter of her and her friends out to tea) shows each character's unique personality. She knows her friends and has captured their rather hilarious outing quite well. Her characters are well defined and each one has a different characteristic or attitude that jumps off the page. The picture accurately depicts what happened when the four girls decided to visit a tea shop that was filled with 'old folk'.

An artist has to visualize what their characters will look like. Do you have a clear picture of your characters before you begin to write? I scour magazines and the Internet for the perfect face for each character in my story. I save the pictures to each corresponding character on their profile sheet. What's a profile sheet? It's a form that I use to develop my character's personalities, backgrounds, mannerisms, characteristics, etc.

This sheet will include my character's name, age, birthday, place of birth, physical descriptions, personality traits, education, etc. It will also include the internal and external conflicts they will have as well as their background information. Did they come from a loving home? Are they educated? Do they have a job? Ask yourself the same questions you would ask of the boy who is coming to take your daughter out on a date for the first time. Dig deep. You want to know this character inside and out.

One of my favourite places to go when fleshing out my characters is http://www.gurusoftware.com/gurunet/personal/factors.htm. While I don't subscribe to the beliefs of this site, the table that is provided here is great for defining your characters and getting to know them.

Just remember, in order to make your characters believable, you can't give them all positive traits. You have to give them negative ones too. This week, try working on fleshing out your characters and if you would like a copy of the form I use, email me and I will send you one.

Organizing Chunks

2010-04-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

I get a monthly ezine from author Randy Ingermanson and he encourages his readers to send it on to others and gives reprint permission for any of the articles. One of the articles was very interesting this month and I think would be beneficial to all. So without further ado, here is Randy Ingermanson.

I don't know any writers who can write a whole novel in one sitting. For most novelists, it takes weeks, months, or years to write a novel. They'll tell you that you write a novel (and later you edit it) one chunk at a time.

What's a "chunk?"

The answer to that is different for different novelists. Many writers work one scene at a time or even one page at a time. But it's easy to get bogged down on that scene or that page and waste insane amounts of time.

Time is precious, and all other things being equal, you'd like to write your novel as quickly as possible.

I've been studying up on personal productivity lately, and one technique I've found very helpful is to set aside a block of time dedicated solely to whatever I'm working on. During that time, I focus entirely on what I doing. I don't check e-mail. I don't answer the phone. I'm surly to the cat.

When the time's up, I take a break. During the break, I can check e-mail, listen to voice mail, or pet the cat.

I learned this technique from a productivity guru named Eben Pagan. Eben has a particular formula for it. He recommends that you work in blocks of 50 minutes, and then take a 10 minute break. During the 10 minutes, your goal is to detach completely from your work. Since writing is mainly intellectual work, during your break you might want to do something physical (like taking a walk) or you might want to do something that connects you emotionally with others (like talking to a friend or getting on Facebook).

That's it: 50 minutes of intense work, then 10 minutes to take a break. Then go do it again.

The reason this works is that you have a limit to how long you can work without losing focus. Different people are different, but typically it's about an hour.

Your goal is to work productively AND to have fun. During each 50 minute work period, set a goal for what you intend to get done. If you're writing a scene, you might shoot for writing three pages. That might not sound like much, but if you write that much in 50 minutes, it works out to 900 words per hour, which is a pretty good clip. If you're a fast writer, your goal might be higher. If you're a slow writer, it might be slower. The point is to set the goal at a point that you can only hit if you're really focused.

Let's do the math for a minute. If you write only one 50 minute chunk per day, five days per week, and if you get in three good pages during that chunk, you'll write a full-length novel of 90,000 words in 24 weeks. That's only five and a half months.

If you worked 2 of those small chunks per day, you'd get that novel done in 12 weeks.

3 of those focused chunks per day would get you finished in 8 weeks.

Is that actually possible in real life?

You bet it's possible. I've written several of my novels in less than two months each. I know a fair number of published authors who routinely write the first draft of a novel that fast or faster. Some of them can write a full novel in less than a month.

Writing the first draft is just the first step, of course. After that, you need to edit your work. Depending on how rough your first draft is, editing might take you days or it might take you months. You edit your work the same way you write your first draft -- in small chunks. 50 minutes on; 10 minutes off.

Now let's get down to the practical details. How do you know when the time's up without checking the clock every two minutes and . . . losing focus?

The answer is very simple: Use a timer.

You can buy a kitchen timer for $10 to $15. Or you can get a software utility to do it. I use a simple Mac shareware program with the incredibly sexy name "Timer Utility" (by JR Productions) which I found on the Web site http://www.VersionTracker.com. You can set it for any length of time, click the Start button, and it beeps when the time is up.

The reason to use a timer is simple: Now you can relax and work hard without having to watch the clock. The timer will tell you when to stop. No worries. Just work hard. Work focused. A timer gives you the freedom to do that.

This idea may seem to you so absurdly simple that it can't possibly work. Do yourself a favor. Try it for just one day and see how much you can get done in a 50 minute chunk.

You might just surprise yourself.

Award-winning novelist Randy Ingermanson, "the Snowflake Guy," publishes the Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine, with more than 20,000 readers, every month. If you want to learn the craft and marketing of fiction, AND make your writing more valuable to editors, AND have FUN doing it, visit http://www.AdvancedFictionWriting.com.

Download your free Special Report on Tiger Marketing and get a free 5-Day Course in How To Publish a Novel.

Writing Superstitions

2010-04-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

In acting there are all kinds of superstitions. It is considered bad luck to wish someone good luck before a play, hence the term "break a leg" is said instead. Shakespeare's play Macbeth is believed to be cursed, so actors avoid saying its name. In fact, if an actor speaks the name Macbeth in a theatre, he or she is required to leave the theatre building, spin around three times, spit, curse, and then knock to be allowed back in. I'm not kidding!

So, what does all this have to do with writing you may ask? Writers have their superstitions too - albeit in a different way. We aren't required to spin around three times, spit and curse when we get writer's block but some writer's fear the mere mention of the term that they refuse to give it voice.

WRITER'S BLOCK, WRITER'S BLOCK, WRITER'S BLOCK!

Okay, you can take your fingers out of your ears now. While I admit WB is something I deal with from time to time, it can be solved by a simple change of scenery, a good book, PC game, prayer (which is where I always go first) or a change of location.

Writers have more myths than superstitions and below are a few that I found recently while googling writing superstitions. Enjoy!

Never split an infinitive - What's an infinitive?

Never begin a sentence with But or And - But I wanna!

Never use contractions - Why can't I?

Never begin a sentence with Because - Because, your English teacher will get really mad!

Never end a sentence with a preposition - I will try not to do it.

Never use Between with more than two objects - Between you and me that is probably a good idea.

Never refer to the reader as you - Call him Charlie, or Denise or Sally, but never you.

Words, Phrases and Punctuation No-No's

2010-04-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

When I first started writing I made a lot of mistakes. I still do. My major problems stem from bad habits. For example, when writing dialogue, I tend to use a lot of exclamation marks. I know I shouldn't. I know that I'm going to have to go back through my manuscript and edit them all out. But, when a scene is exciting I forget and fall back into my 'old' ways.

I was thoroughly chastised by a fellow writer this week, who read an unedited chapter of my new novel. He counted 25 exclamation points - and that was just one chapter! I'm so embarrassed to admit that! Oh my gosh! There I go again! Ack! I can't help myself! I love exclamation points. They allow me to express myself in ways that a period cannot. And that is the problem. If I have to use an exclamation point, I am telling not showing.

Exclamation points, along with several words that I've learned to cull from my vocabulary are, unfortunately, a no-no in the literary world. My writer friend told me that editors will allow four per novel. Now, I don't know if that's true, but I can tell you one thing - there is no way in a blue moon that I am going to be able to limit myself to four exclamation points in a 300 page novel. It's impossible! See? There I go again.

For what it's worth, I no longer have 25 exclamation points in that chapter. I have zero. I'm heartbroken. I'm also wondering why my English teacher never told me, that someday I would have to give up these little wonders. I mean seriously, why make them at all if you can't use them? Who decided to cut them out anyway? I may just stage a protest in defence of the lowly exclamation point. But not now, I have to make sure the following words and phrases are not used either:

almost, actually practically, probably, naturally, virtually, undoubtedly, positively, definitely, suddenly, really, absolutely (oh what the heck -anything with -ly on the end!)
as you must know
so - yep, you can't use it. It's so like not appropriate!
but
just - this word must be weeded out of the English language.
oh - really? Oh?
well
little - you can use tiny, minuscule, small, wee, but apparently not little (I'm not sure why).
tiny - oops! My mistake, you can't use tiny either.
it goes without saying - that you can't use this phrase
as you can see - you can't use this phrase either.
anyway
then - then?!? You have got to be kidding me!

These are all words that have to be done away with if you are a writer. Some of them are filler words. For example: I just went to the supermarket, is better said - I went to the supermarket. See what I mean? "Just" is not needed.

Lesson for today: Go through your manuscript and weed out the above mentioned words and phrases. Oh, and one more thing - don't forget to get rid of your exclamation points!

What is a Christian Writer?

2010-03-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

The other day I found an old book on my shelf that I started reading again. I love it when I find something I've forgotten about and then realize why I kept the book in the first place. I bought this book many years ago, when I first started my journey into writing. It is Ethel Herr's book An Introduction to Christian Writing. I'm glad I found it because this has been a topic of discussion in a forum I belong to.

I'd like to share with you a few of the points she brought out in her first chapter about writers who are Christian and what their responsibilities are:

A Christian Writer is - someone who writes! Sounds rather obvious doesn't it? They are editors, magazine staff writers, public relations specialists, technical writers, writing teachers, novelists. They are writers who happen to be Christian. In other words they have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They belong to a body of fellow-believers. Jesus Christ is our Head and gives us our typing orders.

A Christian Writer is - a believer at worship. Ethe Herr says, "We tend to think that we are first ministers with a pen. However, before we can minister, we must learn to worship and regard all our writing as an act of worship offered to the God of the universe. Everything we do and say must be an act of worship, done for God's pleasure." I like that reminder! If we approach our writing as an act of worship done for God's pleasure, we will never write something that would violate, trivialize or compromise our basic beliefs.

A Christian Writer is a ministering prophet with a broken heart. Biblical prophets who preached judgment never delivered many words of fire without stopping to weep and plead with God's people. No matter how urgent the message, we must first let God break our hearts with the thing that makes Him weep, then weep with Him as we write. God has called us to be servants of Jesus Christ and to serve one another. We will write to meet other's needs rather than our own. We will present all of life from the Christian viewpoint. The author also shares a warning her pastor gave her in regards to success as a writer - "There is always the danger that what begins as a humble service to God will become a desire to be great."

A Christian Writer is an artist. Art is more than painting a picture. Art is music, acting, dancing, poetry - in other words, art is a reflection of self-expression, a gift of God that we share from our hearts to bring encouragement, beauty and pleasure to our readers and to God.

A Christian Writer is a craftsman. The craft of writing is an exercise in the disciplines of polishing and perfecting our work. Craftsmanship is workmanship - the 95 percent perspiration that must accompany the 5 percent inspiration before a piece of art can take shape. Ethel Herr goes on to say that:

A craftsman takes pride in his work. He cares more about the quality than the saleability.
The craftsman works with untiring diligence.
The craftsman nutures growth in his person and in his writing.
The craftsman can take criticism and use it constructively in developing his craft.

The author sums up what a Christian writer is with these four principles:

Weep. Look around you; see your world. Look within; know yourself. Look up to God; learn His expectations. Then let Him break your heart.
Pray. Take time to pray each project into being. Don't rush into publication.
Think. Think your subject through. Research it thoroughly. Produce mature, intellectually sound and honest work.
Work. Be prepared to do plenty of this, but not without the first three steps.

Now, let the discussion begin. What do you think a Christian writer is? Someone who just happens to be Christian and a writer? Or, as the author suggests, a minister to those they are writing for? I'd love to hear your comments. If you are on Facebook, please leave your comments on my blog site so that others can follow along. Thanks!

You can purchase Ethel's book here.

What is Flash Fiction?

2010-03-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

You knew it had to happen. Gone are those wonderful slow days in the past where neighbours chatted over fences, children played outside and families sat down together for dinner. Time spent together was never time that was wasted. Unfortunately, in today's world neighbours barely see each other, children gather round their X-Boxes and TV sets and families have to "squeeze" in time to have a meal together. It's all about saving time and now we have another time saver - Flash Fiction. Yes, people are now too busy to read and while that might seem like a negative, it doesn't have to be, because writers are using Flash Fiction to hone their skills.

So, what is Flash Fiction? It is like a short story, but not quite. Flash fiction is a complete story that is usually told with no more than 500 words. Some flash fiction stories have only had 100 words! They should have all the elements of a longer short story with plot, characterization and so on. I have never attempted to write flash fiction. For one simple reason - I have a difficult time in real life shutting up, making me say something in 500 words or less would be next to impossible!

But then I thought about it and an idea began to brew. Flash fiction is the perfect practice for writers who are trying to come up with a 'pitch' for their next book idea. You know - that perfect little sound bite of what your book is about, that you rattle off whenever anyone asks. So, get our your pencils/pens/keyboard and try your hand at Flash Fiction. It just might help you in the long run!

Show Me Don't Tell Me

2010-03-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a lot of editing lately on some chapter books for other writers and I have noticed something - they are telling me their stories, instead of showing me. This is not good. I can guarantee that if you 'tell' your way through a story, you are going to put your reader to sleep and never get published.

Perhaps it's a fall-back to our youth. Do you remember show and tell days? You would bring your toys to school to 'show' your classmates and then the teacher would make you say or 'tell' something about the object in your hand.

Unfortunately, telling in writing is not a good idea. Telling does not bring the reader into the story. For example:

Andrea drank some tea.

Okay, that's nice, but it doesn't pull me into the story.

Andrea lifted the cup of Earl Grey Tea to her lips. "Ah," she inhaled its sweet aroma. "Nothing is as comforting as a hot cup of tea."

Do you see the difference? Showing Andrea's actions brings me right into the story. Yes, it takes more time, but now I'm wondering why Andrea needed to be comforted by a cup of Earl Grey Tea. It also makes me wish I had a cup of tea sitting beside me right now! (I can smell it's heady goodness) (If you are not a Simpson's fan you will not get that). Moving on...

What about those times when you just have to tell things? Like setting up the story? Nope sorry! If you have to introduce your story by telling me what's going on, I've already started to fall asleep. It's not going to work. Some authors love to be descriptive in their books and yes, in some cases it is necessary. But if you spend too much time describing the flowers and the sky and the colour of your protagonist's dress I will be looking for another book. Ugh! I can't count the number of books I've had to review (by well known authors too!), that made me wish I had poked my eyes out, rather than have to read another word. A book without dialogue or action is boring, doesn't involve the reader and isn't exciting.

Set your scene, add your dialogue and show me some action!

Caution For Women Re-Entering the Work Force

2010-03-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

Why Writer's Conferences Are So Important

2010-03-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

As a writer you owe it to yourself to attend at least one writer's conference this year. I know - they can be expensive, but look at the big picture and you will see all the benefits.

You get to know real agents, editors and writers
You can have your work critiqued by some of those agents, editors and writers
You will be able to attend some of the best courses on writing, publishing, etc. you will ever find
You learn the current state of the industry
You learn the craft of writing from the pros
You have the chance to pitch your work - which could lead to a contract eventually
You can make lifelong friends
It's an investment in your future
You go home feeling motivated

How you feel after a conference all depends on your expectations going into one. If you expect to go to a conference, pitch your book and walk out with a signed contract - you are dreaming! You will go home feeling miserable. Good expectations are:

Meeting editors, agents and other writers
No expectations - just go and enjoy the weekend you might be surprised at what happens!
Getting the chance for critiques of your work
Pitching your work to an editor or agent (yes, you can do it, just don't expect them to drop at your feet hailing you as the next king or queen of fiction!)
Marketing yourself (Do you have a book out? By all means bring copies with you! You can sell them on consignment at most conferences. Or, if you are fortunate, an editor will ask to read it. I had that happen to me at my first conference! Of course, don't forget your one-sheets, business cards, etc.)
Making contacts (I can't count how many one-sheets and business cards I gave away and received in return)
Delicious meals
No sleep (how can anyone sleep when there is so much going on? It also doesn't help when your roommate wants to talk all night - or she snores. *Hint* - bring earplugs)

Of course, there are so many other wonderful things that can happen that I can't fit them all here. At my first conference I went to, I was feeling rather down. I kept comparing myself to other writers and thinking I was horrible and should just give up. I was so depressed that I didn't even submit anything for critique, thinking - what's the point? But, God moves in mysterious ways. After the deadline passed for submissions, I breathed a sigh of relief, until they extended the deadline. Then I felt such an urgency to submit something that I knew God was nudging me. Good thing I listened. My work was critiqued by an editor of Kregel Publishing and he loved it and wants to see more. It was also reviewed by an author friend who put me in touch with her agent. I was so excited after that weekend, that I literally haven't stopped writing since! I came home motivated to continue writing. More importantly, the Lord confirmed for me (again) that this was what He wanted me to do. I went in expecting nothing and came out with so much more.

From June 17-19 I will be attending that same conference once again - Write! Canada. Held at the beautiful Guelph Conference Bible grounds in Southern Ontario. I look forward to meeting old friends and making new ones. Most of all I look forward to that extra dose of motivation that I need and the incredible workshops and plenaries that I will attend.

To find out more about Write! Canada and to register click the picture below.

For a closer look at Write! Canada you can take a peek at the video below.

How is Your Bookshelf?

2010-03-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

Writers usually have a plethora of books of all types and genres. We are avid readers (or we should be), who are so insecure that we often look at someone else's writing and say, "I wish I could write like that", or we critique it while we are reading it, trying to find anything at all that the author screwed up on, just to make ourselves feel better. Oh, c'mon! You know you do it!

As writers it is important that we practise our craft daily and that we don't close our minds off to instruction from others. Advice and guidance from a well-seasoned writer can go a long way. Blogs on writing can give you helpful hints, but an arsenal of books on writing are also good to have on hand. The following are books that I have read or have been recommended to me. I invite you to check them out on Amazon!

Do You Have an Accountability Partner?

2010-03-08T18:53:00.000-08:00

Everyone is accountable to someone - your boss, your spouse, your bank, your weight-loss coach! The word accountable according to Dictionary.Com means, "subject to the obligation to report, explain, or justify something; responsible; answerable."

As a writer, it is very important that you have a group of people, or a good friend that you can be accountable to. I have a wonderful friend who encourages me when I want to give up. She is also my sounding board when I am frustrated. She deserves to be paid, for putting up with me and I'm lucky to have her in my life. She also prays for me and I can feel her prayers (especially when inspiration takes over!).

If I need to meet a deadline, all she has to say is, "How is the writing going?" and if I hem and haw, she knows I'm having problems. That's when she becomes someone I can bounce my ideas off of, to see if they are plausible. She is also not afraid to critique my writing. Not criticize - but critique. There is a difference. One is helpful and encouraging, the other is discouraging and serves no purpose.

A good accountability partner will:

Encourage you
Pray for you
Listen to you
Be aware of your deadlines and gently remind you when they are due
Make sure that you get out of the house (writers are notorious loners, so it's good to step away from your computer once in a while and have some fun!)
Basically, she/he will be a wonderful friend that you will have for life

Now, just in case you think this is a one-sided relationship where you as the writer get pampered by your best friend and she/he gets squat - think again!

A good writer will:

Encourage their accountability partner (aka - best friend!)
Pray for them
Listen to them
Be aware of what is going on in their lives and offer support when needed
Take them out for coffee
And above all enjoy their friendship!

Of course as a Christian writer, my accountability to God always comes first. If I'm not writing to glorify Him then I'm doing it for all the wrong reasons. That is another good reason to have an accountability partner. To make sure that what you are writing stays true to what you believe.

So how about you? Do you have someone who gets you through that next chapter?

How to be Organized in Your Writing

2010-03-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

Are you organized, or do you have an organized mess? I cannot recall the name of the movie, but I remember a scene where a new secretary has just cleaned up the clutter from her boss's desk, while he is elsewhere. Satisfied with her accomplishment she heads back to her own very neat cubicle. Her boss comes back and explodes. "What did you do to my desk? Where is everything? I'll never be able to find what I need now!" She scurries into his office pulls out a drawer and shows him that all his files (basically everything that was on his desk) are now organized into an efficient colour-coded system that will make everything very easy to find. He informs her that he already had an organized, efficient system, then he took all the files she had spent so much time organizing and dumped them all on his desk. Then he fired her.

Ridiculous? Perhaps, but believe it or not, many writers actually thrive this way. Now, before you jump to conclusions, I am not advocating a messy desk! I do believe in the importance of organization, especially when it comes to the area of writing. I have a separate file for research for each project that I'm working on, clearly labelled and in my file drawer. I even have a binder that has descriptions of each of my characters, from their hair colour and age, to the descriptions of their homes (inside and out). But even with all these things to help me, I still find my desk can get cluttered from time to time and since writers tend to be very visual people, a messy desk can (for some) be very depressing. So, here are just a few suggestions to help you as you begin your next project.

Have all your reference books handy. These would be all books that you are using for research on your project, (as well as your Thesaurus, Dictionary, Flip-Dictionary), into one place close to your desk. Due to space issues, I have resorted to buying a plastic crate that I fill and keep by my desk. When I'm done my project I put what I don't need back in my bookcase and mark them as reference materials for later projects.
Buy a 3-ring binder with dividers. I mentioned above that I keep a binder with descriptions of my characters and my story. It is tabbed, with each character's description, relationships, likes/dislikes clearly marked out. This is where I flesh out my characters and get to know them. I have even made forms up that list all their quirks, dreams, beliefs - yep - I'm a bit too organized there, but you get the picture. Everything is in one place. The storyline is developed here (basically my outline) and when I need to find something it is right at my fingertips.
Alternatively, make use of a writing program. Writing programs are great! Snowflake Pro by Randy Ingermanson will take you from writing a basic description of your novel to a finished proposal. I have also used Storyweaver (my personal favourite). It is incredibly detailed and keeps everything organized into neat little sections.
Buy colour-coded stick-it notes. These are very helpful for research. Find a quote you'd like to use and don't want to lose the page? Want to keep your bibliography straight? Buy a lot of them, you can never have too many of these.
Keep notepads, pens/pencils handy. You never know when inspiration is going to strike. Mine usually happens just as I'm about to fall asleep. Therefore, I keep a notepad and pen by my bedside, along with a bookmark flashlight (so as not to disturb my husband).
Purchase a notebook. A notebook that has dividers or tabs is always handy if you send out a lot of query letters, proposals, submissions or contests. I use it like a log, marking the date I sent it, to whom I sent it and what it was I sent. If you get a call about an article or submission you will at least know what the person on the other end is talking about!
A Cluttered Desk Equals A Cluttered Mind. If you want to keep your inspiration flowing, keep your desk clean throughout the week by putting things away as you use them.

Now, those are just a few suggestions that I have found helpful. How about you? What do you do to keep yourself organized?

20 Ways to Know You Are a Writer

2010-03-04T19:50:00.000-08:00

You like to hear the click of the computer beneath your fingertips.
You daydream - a lot.
Your grammar is horrible, but you don't care.
You rely on editors because their grammar is not horrible.
You dream about your characters at night.
You continue to write, even when dinner is burning.
You take your laptop to Starbucks or Williams for inspiration.
You discreetly listen to conversations, saving snippets for your characters.
You look at a rejection slip as a badge of honour.
You are never satisfied with what you've written.
Most of your friends are writers.
You are insecure.
You love people, but spend most of your time alone.
You get your best ideas in the shower.
You have a notepad and pen in your purse - for those "ah, ha" moments.
You get your best ideas when you are about to fall asleep.
You keep a notepad and pen by your bed.
The Writer's Market Guide is your bible.
You belong to a writer's group and a critique group.
You google your name to see if you're famous yet.

The Writer's Keep

Finding Time to Blog

I Want You to Write a Theme...

Making the Ordinary Extraordinary

Writing What You Read

How Much Detail is Too Much?

Top 15 Signs You are Not Ready for an Agent

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Practice Writing

How Do You Write a Book?

The Benefits of a Writing/Critique Group

A New Kind of Writing Field Trip

How Many Edits Are Enough?

Guest Post - Randy Ingermanson

Making Your Reader Love Backstory

Wordless Wednesday

Are You a Fast Writer?

Are You Unique?

Why All Writer's Should Read Poetry

Why Writers Need Field Trips

Wordless Wednesday

Why You Need a Writing Schedule

What Do You Do For Writer's Block?

Wordless Wednesday

What Are Amazon Rankings?

Check Your Ego at the Door

Where Can I go for a Writing Retreat?

What New Writer's Need to Know

Simple Habits for Writer's That Pay Off Quickly

What Kind of Writer Are You?

Wordless Wednesday

What Do You Need to be a Successful Writer?

Do You Have What it Takes?

Is It Too Late for the Independent Bookstore?

Are Book Signings Worth It?

Are Blog Tours Effective?

How to Get Your Writing Organized

How to Write a Press Release

How To Have a Successful Book Launch

What are the Different Types of Editing?

Part Three - Marketing the Billion-Dollar Book

Part Two - How to Create an E-Book With Amazon

Guest Post by Randy Ingermanson - To E or Not to E?

Marketing the Self-Published Book

How Do I Write a Synopsis?

Why Do I Have to Write A Synopsis?

Something Fun For Everyone

Write! Canada

For Writers Everywhere

The Only Writing Rules You'll Ever Need

Is Social Networking Important?

I've Decided to Be a Writer - Now What Do I Do?

Do You Make These Spelling Mistakes?

Is It One Word or Two?

Are You Using the Right Words?

Get Known Before The Book Deal

Finding Your Platform

What is a Platform And Why Do I Need One?

Fleshing Out Your Characters

Organizing Chunks

Writing Superstitions

Words, Phrases and Punctuation No-No's

What is a Christian Writer?

What is Flash Fiction?

Show Me Don't Tell Me

Caution For Women Re-Entering the Work Force

Why Writer's Conferences Are So Important

How is Your Bookshelf?

Do You Have an Accountability Partner?

How to be Organized in Your Writing

20 Ways to Know You Are a Writer