Last time, I discussed various approaches to getting people to read your books. I mean, sure, writing is fun and all, but it’s even more fun when someone is actually reading. The one important aspect I did not discuss is the cover, which of course, also contains your title. We have heard all our lives that…
Making predictions about what will happen in the future is a dangerous game, and if I were smarter, I probably wouldn’t even attempt it. But as I prepared the new Red Sneaker book, What Writers Need to Know, I revisited my predictions for 2019—and they weren’t half bad. I did see some trends coming, missed…
In recent years, you’ve probably heard a lot of people talking about their beta readers, that is, people they send their manuscripts to for feedback before they send them to their agents, editors, or publishers. The term is new, but the idea is not. We all benefit from a little feedback—just so you don’t get…
Ever tried to describe your own book? Chances are you have, and chances are you found it a difficult and unpleasant experience. If you’re taking the traditional publishing route, you must write a query letter or prepare an elevator pitch. If you’re self-publishing, you must write your book blurb or back cover copy. And either…
I’m sure you’re all familiar with NaNoWriMo, which has become the best-known writing event in the nation. People all across the country commit to writing a novel during the month of November, and many claim they have succeeded. I have mixed feelings about NaNoWriMo. I’ll admit it. I like anything that encourages writers to sit down and…
Congrats to everyone on their winning submissions to our 2018 Writer’s Conference! Here is the list of winners, some of which have received contracts for publication! Flash Fiction WINNER: Maeve Maddox, “Priorities” 1st Runner-Up: Storme Maynard, “Shooter” 2nd Runner-Up: Nancy Hartney, “One Clean Shot” Poetry WINNER: Shari Heinrich, “Forever” 1st Runner-Up: Karen Jo…
Writing about Hollywood, William Goldman famously said, “Nobody knows anything.” I feel much the same about publishing. When eBooks first broke, I repeatedly heard people say, “That will never catch on,” or “I love the feel of a real book in my hands.” Well, guess what? EBooks account for about 75% of sales in popular…
Viewpoint is an ongoing source of concern for writers. When I edit manuscripts, I comment on viewpoint problems more than any other single issue. Why? It’s really not that complicated (after you’ve done it thirty or forty times). Look, you just need to pick a viewpoint and stick with it throughout a scene. If you change…