Creating a story is like knitting or weaving—the difference? Writers use words to create the unforgettable patterns that make readers think of a story long after the last page. But you have to keep track of them. Ever read a story where there was a cool element (maybe a character, or a weakness) introduced but never shows up again? That is a dropped thread. Dropping a thread … [Read more...]
Accomplishment Sessions
Mark anything “Done” lately? Ever miss that sense of accomplishment? I sure do! Writing is never done. Think about it. You write a draft, revise it. Done, right? Nope. Your critique partners give feedback and you rip your manuscript apart and rewrite it. Done? Not by a long shot…. Off your work goes to an agent (or editor) for the “first pass” edit (big picture … [Read more...]
Jenna versus the Mountain
Ever been overwhelmed by the scope of the project in front of you? A few weeks after my hand surgery I turned my attention to revising my current work in progress (a hockey story). As I dug into my revision process I realized that my draft is, shall we say…..not polished. And the ending doesn’t work. And I have too many secondary characters running around who don’t … [Read more...]
Take a Break
Writers are constantly running at eleven (Thank you, This is Spinal Tap). No one wants to get burned out, so be sure to keep an eye on your stamina and mood. When it starts to slow and/or falter, it might be time to take a break. Nothing wrong with a break. The trick to any time off from writing is to get restarted before the break becomes permanent. (Although I could … [Read more...]
Twitter pitching
So your manuscript is finished. Revised. Polished until it shines. Congratulations, you are ready to start putting it out into the world to find others who love it as much as you. A great way to start is through pitching -- in person or online. Today's post deals with #PitMad--Twitter's biggest pitch party. What is Twitter Pitching? #PitMad is organized by Brenda Drake … [Read more...]
Find us on…