Dear Writer Guy,
I’ve been thinking for a long time now about writing a book…. Please give me directions on how to set about writing the book?
Blog
Are You Making These 5 Mistakes with Character Names?
As an onomast and an author, I’m very sensitive to names in fiction. Yes, your characters are metaphorically your “babies,” however you shouldn’t name them as you would a child. Here are five mistakes that writers make regarding names in fiction: 1. The name is not age-appropriate. Recently I watched a television pilot set in …
3 Essential Story Skills to Get You Published
Here are three things that glib, hasty or form declines from New York editors and agents aren’t telling you. The solutions can help you whether you are seeking a major imprint or going it alone: 1. PROBLEM: I was able to begin skimming your novel almost right away. Ouch. That’s not the effect you want. …
How do I choose my story topic?
Dear Writer Guy,
I am supposed to write a 1500 word story on any topic. I have been trying for a few days but nothing interesting seems to strike me. I want my story to be unique. Please help me out .
3 Tips for a Juicier Plot
Plots are like Christmas turkeys — we’re always looking for ways to fatten them up. Juicier plots feel more complex, more satisfying. They keep readers up late turning the pages, and keep editors asking for more. How do you make sure your book’s plot is a juicy one? Here are three quick tips to help. …
How Do I Start My Story?
Dear Writer Guy,
I am making this one story about a girl who has to leave her best friend, and I don’t know how to start it. Can you please give me some suggestions?
3 Reasons to Write Series
Thinking about crafting a series for young readers? You’re not alone. Serial fiction has been on the rise in the past decade (hello, Harry Potter and Divergent). And despite a slight slowdown in middle-grade series, the trend looks to continue. Does this mean you should take the plunge? Before jumping into series fiction, mull over …
Raise the Stakes, Honey!
I have been a writer my whole life long, beginning with writing on walls as a toddler to writing professionally as an adult. In that life-long career, I have written articles, picture books, non-fiction, poetry, essays, short stories, a memoir, and even a song or two. But for years and years the novel was a …
