Writer's Corner by K.C. Grant

'Venom' Blog Tour

2012-02-02T09:49:00.003-07:00

My latest title Venom is set for a blog tour. I'll post links below and let you know if there are giveaways associated with the site. I'm still doing a Goodreads giveaway until Feb. 7 so check that out as well!

Reviews and GIVEAWAY!: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13379037-venom

Review: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/2012/02/review-venom-by-kc-grant.html

Review: http://heatherjustesen.blogspot.com/2012/02/book-review-venom-by-kc-grant.html

Interview and GIVEAWAY!: http://books4linda.blogspot.com/2012/02/venom-by-kc-grant-giveaway-and-author.html

Review: http://ldsfiction.blogspot.com/2012/01/venom-by-kc-grant.html

A New Year of Success in Writing!

2012-01-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

I've touched on this topic before, but as each new year rolls around, it just seems like the perfect time to address the idea that success in writing depends upon mainly one thing: YOU!

The goals you set for yourself will mean the difference between being a dreamer and becoming an author. Put all failures in the past and look ahead to your potential, whether that includes actually becoming published or simply starting the framework that you'll need to move in that direction. That framework will includes things such as:

1) Network with other writers--especially successful ones! Learn from their experiences, but be genuine in your interest. Authors have paid their dues and don't like to simply be "picked" for info.

2) Write your goals down. If they're only in your head, that's where they'll stay. Make them tangible. Write them and put them on your mirror, on the dashboard of your car. On your cell phone. Make a fake book cover with your title and name on it and SEE it happening.

3) Commit to write. You have to prioritize your writing. If you treat it like a hobby that comes after every other responsibility, big or small, it will fade away with your enthusiasm. Writers don't write because they like to all of the time, they do it because they want to succeed and to succeed they have to write.

4) Celebrate your successes. From an editorial in the newspaper to writing that Christmas letter, put your heart into it and be proud of your ability to do something that most people struggle with. Expressing yourself through words is a true gift, so be proud of it and others will, too.

Christmas Giveaway Book Hop winner

2011-12-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Taffy who won a copy of Abish: Mother of Faith in the Christmas Giveaway Hop. I'm so glad to have met many new readers and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Keep on reading!!!

Making characters come alive

2011-11-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

They're the foundation on which your story will rest. Whether they're witty or charming, evil or innocent, you have to find a way to make your characters come alive. The best way to do this is to, simply put, give them a life. Here's a list of basic things you should know about each of the characters in your book so that you'll know what motivates them and how they'll react under any given circumstance.

Name:
Age:
Weight:
Height:
Birthdate:
Eye color:
Hair color:
Distinctive features (moles, freckles, scars, lisp, stutter, etc.):
Occupation:
Yearly salary:
Religion:
Marital status:
Children:
Hobbies:
Address:
Schooling:
Talents:
Short and long-term goals (this will affect motivation):
Needs:
Biggest fear:
Biggest dream:
Best friends:
Worst enemies:

So fill out this list for every character before you begin your book. Things can always be added or changed but this will keep you consistent throughout.

Top Ten Horror Novels

2011-10-08T16:00:00.000-06:00

I confess--I love a good scare. And this is the perfect time to get the hair on the back of your neck standing up and indulge your macabre without anyone thinking you're a little off. So if you're in a ghoulish mood, try one of these gruesome tales:

Anything by Stephen King could fill this list, but let's turn to some different masters of the craft:
1) Ghost Story by Peter Straub
2) Ghosts by Noel Hynd
3) Phantom by Deen Koontz
4) The House that Jack Built by Graham Masterson
5) Walkers by Graham Masterson
6) Usher's Passing by Robert R. McCammon

We shouldn't leave out some classics as well:

7) The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving
8) The House of Seven Gables by Nathaniel Hawthorne
9) any compilation by Edgar Allan Poe

10) OK, I cheated. The Shining by Stephen King

What to do with down time...

2011-09-06T17:09:00.000-06:00

There's a problem that can develop for published writers when they finish one project and have yet to move on to the next. It's called "down time." You haven't put your foot solidly into the next manuscript and have the success of the last one to distract you--after all, there are book signings and appearances, the public clamoring for your attention! OK, maybe it's not that exciting. But it can be difficult to weather the lull that occurs and find that motivation to move past yet another blank page--or computer screen--and start to be creative again. You've probably also been editing for months without really having to create anything completely new. So what do you do?

The key is to stay creative in one form or another. When a manuscript is finished and you don't have that next solid project to jump into, use that time to develop other skills. Try a new form of writing: poetry, screen plays, satirical humor. Whatever. It can relieve some pressure in that you're not being expected to perform the same "tricks" over and over and it can be like a mental vacation from the usual workload. Or maybe just keep a journal for feelings and abstract ideas. Just write. It's like exercising and when a new inspiration hits, you won't have as difficult a time warming up those muscles again.

Kindle is King!

2011-07-29T12:19:00.000-06:00

OK, I admit it, I'm hooked. These past three weeks having my Kindle have been great. I've had to take one of my parents to the doctor a lot and so I bring my Kindle and when I finish reading one book, I've got another waiting! And I've been keeping a few on it for for my kids as well (YA and fairy tales) and so when we've gone on trips I know that I'll have something for them to read at bedtime or when they get bored. I'm already up to around 50 books--a lot of them free! So I'm going to put in my plug and say that if you haven't checked out an e-reader yet, do. There are a variety of styles and I've heard pros and cons about each. But I haven't had to recharge my Kindle yet and it was affordable and easy to use.

Into the new age of reading...

2011-07-06T10:24:00.000-06:00

OK, I did it. For my birthday, I got a Kindle. I've resisted and protested and come up with every reason why I shouldn't want to read a book from an electronic reader. But, part of me felt like it was being left behind. Kind of like when I have to ask my children how to find saved pictures on my camera or make a Prezi presentation. So I did it and it's here. As I hold it in my hands I'm still not sure what to think. Will they words look the same as they do on tangible paper where you can turn each page or linger over each word? Maybe not. But the convenience is there and the opportunity to have access to so many more works than I ever would before--and not just because of the financial deterrant. Some authors are choosing only to publish e-books and though that does tend to put stuff out there that probably isn't worth reading, I feel it's only fair to give some of the more interesting material a chance. So here it goes . . . wish me luck. I'll let you know what I think.

Countdown to Summer

2011-06-06T16:31:00.000-06:00

Here's a link to LDS Women's Book Review where there's a chance for you to win my latest book, "Abish: Mother of Faith."

http://www.ldswomensbookreview.com/wordpress/2011/06/02/abish-mother-of-faith-by-k-c-grant-countdown-to-summer-2011/

When opportunity knocks...

2011-05-19T14:11:00.000-06:00

I've learned something interesting as I've navigated the writing world. It's something that I've tried to share with various writers, but many still don't seem to get it.

First and foremost I want to write books and so do most of the writers I associate with. But the problem is they get inside this little box of the "novel writer" and they cringe at the thought of learning to write anything else, let alone attempting to get it published.

The problem with this is multi-faceted. First, that only limits you as a writer. To say "I'm a poet and so I only write poetry" is like enjoying a certain food and only eating that day after day. Some forms of writing may seem foreign and awkward at first, but there is something to be learned in tasting them all. All it can do is expand your experience as a writer.

The second problem is that in being so narrow-minded, many writers think that they're going to write this first book and get it published all within this safety zone they've created. They don't consider that writing is a business and a successful writer must be businesslike. No one would attempt to open a business without networking and advertising and so how can you, as a writer, expect to succeed likewise. Networking comes through expanding your horizons and taking chances when they present themselves.

Case in point. Shortly after I began writing my first book, I started writing articles for a small, though nationally syndicated, magazine. The two didn't seem to have much to do with each other until it was time to promote my book and the magazine I'd been writing for gave me a coveted spot on their product spolight page--introducing me to 60,000 potential readers. And more recently, I finally got a review of my second book in my state's largest newspaper--probably because I'd been writing for them for a few months!

Along the way my various writing experiences have introduced me to a variety of people and sources for improving my skills, marketing my books and finding the motivation that I've needed. So when I encourage writers to never pass up an opportunity to write--whether it's a product detail brochure for a local business or an article in a local newspaper--just take the chance and run with it. You never know where it will lead.

Criticism and the Writer

2011-04-13T10:42:00.000-06:00

Here's a touchy topic: how do you, as a writer, handle criticism. The answer is: as gracefully as possible.

But the truth of the matter is, there are moments that are going to get the best of you. Such as:
1) When your editor tells you he/she hates how you've written your main character.
2) When you get an email or review from someone who says their 3-year-old could have written a better novel.
3) When someone who doesn't seem to have anything better to do harps on a tiny mistake you made regarding research in an article or other work.

The list could go on and on. And the reason why it can be hard to stay cool in these circumstances is that your writing is an extension of yourself. It's your emotions and your creativity put down on paper; hopefully your soul exposed for all the world to see.

Which leaves you open to attack because you have chosen to present yourself in a public way.

So what can you do when you begin to face the "slings and arrows of outrageous fortune"? Unfortunately in today's society you don't have the luxury of being a brooding artist who can fling mud in your attacker's face. Try a few of these ideas instead:

1) Consider the source. Unless this person is a New York Times bestselling author, a stellar agent or an editor whose opinion you've come to trust, their opinion is just that...an opinion. Don't rush out and rewrite anything just because one person tells you it stinks. Instead, try and have a group of peers in the industry who can give you honest feedback.

2) Consider their motivation. A recent survey states that over 80% of Americans have a dream of writing a book. So most likely you're dealing with a disgruntled wannabe author who possibly had the same idea for a book but has been trumped by you. Go easy on them.

3) Consider their feedback. All right. Here's one that few of us want to face. Are they right? If several people have given you feedback of a similar nature, you may want to accept that something isn't adding up right. And since we're trying to be open to improving our craft, look at their advice for what it's worth. If it has some validity, use it. If you still think it's a low blow, chuck it.

Spring Writing Prompt

2011-03-31T09:19:00.000-06:00

As the temperatures rise, I thought it might be fun to suggest a writing prompt that would tie into what has always been my favorite time of the year. Spring means rebirth and new life and yet we tend to live such hectic lifestyles that we may not be noticing the changes around us. For a writer, this is wrong! We should never be too busy to open our eyes and use our surroundings to inspire our writing. So spend a few minutes this week doing the following:

Choose a color, any color. Then go for at least a fifteen minute walk in your area. Use all of your senses, but be sure to notice everything that is that color. When you go home or if you choose to sit down and write wherever you are, describe what you saw in its richness and fullness. Use adjectives that are unique and draw out uncommon comparisons to what you saw. Make the reader feel and experience what you did.

Self-Publishing

2011-03-24T17:22:00.000-06:00

There has been a lot of press lately about Barry Eisler and his "walking away" from a huge deal to publish his latest book, instead opting to self-publish it. This brings up some interesting questions when it comes to writing--do you try and "do it yourself" and hopefully maintain more of the profits, or do you let a publisher help you, but essentially leave you with pennies on the dollar.

Well, here's my take on the whole issue, for what it's worth. After all, there are pros and cons to both sides.

Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing
The obvious 'pro' to this is that you get to keep a substantial amount of the profits yourself, especially if you skip the printing and opt for e-books. Percentages can vary, but we're talking a HUGE difference.

You also have more control over creative input, such as designing the cover or deciding how to edit it (not that you shouldn't have a professional editor help you anyway, but you can 'put your foot down' if you have creative differences more easily). In a sense, you are the master and the final product will have to have your stamp of approval.

That being said, that also means that you get to foot the bill for that editing and design work and so hopefully you have some trusted connections because it can get pricey. Shop around and ask other authors for some advice. You'll want to study up a little bit on the whole process of what makes a cover successful.

You see, that's the main drawback of self-publishing: the work. Besides determining who your printer will be or getting things set up for an ebook, you're also responsible for any marketing that will take place which includes advertising, networking with bookstores for book signings and even trying to GET your books in the bookstores. You have to make up all promotional items such as bookmarks and posters yourself. This can all take away from that bottom line.

But if creative control is most important to you--and not necessarily the number of books you sell or the hours you'll put into selling them--then this could be the way to go. And to be honest, with the way the market is changing, the chance to have a breakaway best seller is getting better and better.

PROS AND CONS OF HAVING A PUBLISHER
I admit that I have to be careful here because this is the route I've chosen and to be honest, even though it's not a perfect system, it works best for me. By having a publisher, I may have less control over the finished product, but I know that finished product has a better chance of reaching more readers. My publisher sees that I get into all of the pertinent ads and bookstores, they send out the press releases and arrange for book signings. They make bookmarks for me and take care of all of the printing arrangements for my book. I also have an editor to help me out with the book itself, an art department to design the cover and a market department to see that it gets publicity. Not to mention the "clout" that comes from having a publisher--being "self-published" is akin to a "vanity press" where anyone can write anything and get it published. You don't have to "prove" yourself as much if you have a publisher to back you up.

But, like I said, I lose some of the creative control. If there are creative differences that you have with your editor, you may find yourself doing a lot of compromising. You may also never see the cover until it's actually on the book! That's why choosing a publisher is important and then developing a sense of trust with them. And if you don't think you're a natural salesman and struggle to talk about yourself, there may not be another solution, unless the only people you want to have read your book are family and friends.

So while not an in-depth analysis of both worlds, at least it's a hint as to what each entails. Good luck deciding!

Adjectives and Adverbs

2011-03-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

When it comes to adjectives and adverbs, it's easy to make a lot of beginner's mistakes. The simplest rule is to avoid the overuse or misuse of adjectives and adverbs. Here are five reasons why:
1) More is less. A string of adjectives is distracting and harder to read.
2) You end up “telling” vs. “showing” the reader what is happening when you
use too many adjectives.
3) Adverbs can weaken their subjects. It’s like saying the verb isn’t strong
enough to stand on its own.
4) Beginners tend to use common adjectives and adverbs. They become cliché.
5) You end up using more commas than necessary which makes for awkward
reading.

So a good exercise to do with any of your writing is to go paragraph by paragraph and underline or highlight all of your adjectives and adverbs and then ask yourself the following questions:
1) "Is this really necessary? Can I just cut it out?"
2) "Is this word too cliche/common? Is there another adjective/adverb I could use?"
3) "What other nouns or verbs could I use in its place to strengthen the meaning?"

Try rewriting the paragraph now. You'll find that with practice you'll begin to naturally edit yourself as you write.

Advice for Young Writers

2011-03-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

From time to time I get questions for young people who are interested in writing. When I consider my own life, I really wish I'd had someone growing up who gave me the idea and the confidence that I could be a writer. I feel like I kind of stumbled onto it on my own. So here's some of what I would have wanted to know:

First, becoming a good writer can be a product of being a good reader. And don't limit yourselves to one genre or particular writer. Learn to appreciate writing in all of its forms--from poetry to science fiction to non-fiction. It will give you a broader perspective of different writing styles and possibly open up new avenues for you to consider.

Second, keep a journal. One day when you're old and decrepit, you're going to want to write a story that includes a teenager or a 10-year-old. By writing down your thoughts now, you'll be able to tap into that authenticity for the characters you'll write later.

Next, don't let your abilities now discourage you from thinking you can be a writer later. Remember, you're young and may not have the life experiences needed to truly write a masterpiece. And when you look back and read these early attempts, you'll probably laugh but know that right now it's more the desire than the ability to write that counts.

And lastly, don't think that writing well just happens. Take creative writing courses (though don't let anything a teacher or pupil may say discourage you) and network with other writers. If you can find a mentor that's great. But there are a lot of resources out there for you to tap into that can help you achieve writing success. Take advantage of writing opportunities: for a local newspaper, your school literary magazine, the year book even. You'll gain confidence this way and gradually work your way up to where you want to be.

'Abish: Daughter of God' book giveaway

2011-02-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Wow, three posts in one month! I'm setting a record for myself. But, in celebration of Valentine's Day and in anticipation of Abish: Mother of Faith being released next month, I'd like to "share the love" and give a copy of Abish: Daughter of God to one of my lucky followers. Details are on my website http:www.kcgrant.com

Making Friends Monday

2011-02-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Aspiring Writers,

Check out my new friend and her great blog!:
http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com

Tristi Pinkston is the author of six novels for the LDS market, most recently "Dearly Departed," the second novel in The Secret Sisters Mysteries series. She loves to teach others about the craft of writing and works as a freelance editor and online writing instructor, as well as being a popular presenter at the annual LDStorymaker Writers Conference.

Her blog http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com is a mixture of writing tips, author interviews, thoughts about life, ramblings about homeschool, family, region ... basically anything that happens to be on her mind at any given moment.

--

Valentine's Day writing prompt

2011-02-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

Ahh, love is in the air. Pretend that you are your favorite storybook villain and you're trying to win back the heart of your love interest after he/she found out about your villainous life or past. Try and justify your behavior to them, portraying it in the best light possible. (And you're not above outright lying, after all, you're a villain.) But somehow let your character's true nature show through in your letter/speech in a way that they themselves wouldn't recognize as being menacing or obsessive. And don't forget to add what your character will do if their love remains unrequited.

Getting Published

2011-01-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

This is the number one question I get from people: "How do I get published?" And to be perfectly honest, it irks me just a little bit. Instead, they should be asking, "How can I become a better writer"! Because let's face it, you'll be more likely to get published if you've written some well-crafted novel that has its place in the current market.

But, not to belabor that point, I'm going to assume you know your craft and have written something incredible that deserves to be published. So, here's a few simple ideas (because there are entire books written about this!) to think about:

1) If you're looking to publish in the national market you'll need an agent. And the best way to find one is to ask other writers who write in the same genre as you or attend writer's conferences where they have agents/publishers come to speak. Many offer you one-on-one time to pitch your idea for an additional fee. Otherwise, there is a resource online but you'll have to do your research. If your writing is geared to a very specific niche (like Christian romance or how to yo-yo), you may not need an agent but just have to track down an appropriate publisher and can just follow the publisher's guidelines which they have on their websites. Remember that competition in most areas is fierce and be prepared for rejection--so try and look at it as a chance to improve.

2) Contests can be a great way to get noticed as well. Different writer's groups and magazines (i.e. Romance Writers of America, Writer's Digest) will have contests that you can get some attention for entering. There are numerous online contests and blogs that allow you to showcase your work, get feedback and gain status by how many followers like what you do.

3) Network, network, network. If you have a large group of writer's that you know, then you have a large group of agents, publishers and information that THEY know. Now I'm not suggesting that you go join some group for the sole purpose of picking someone's brain. I hate it when someone finds out I'm published and instead of getting to know ME, they just want to know what I've learned through years of agony and effort. Just remember, you need to have a support system of people who understand why you write, who'll support you and then cheer you on when you do find success. So start now.

4) Consider what you're trying to publish. Is it an exciting suspense novel with universal appeal or a memoir about how you grew up on a farm. If it's the latter, then you may want to consider self-publishing. Not that a well-crafted book about your life couldn't be interesting, but unless it has a real widespread appeal (like a cancer survivor story or some other angle), a publisher won't touch it. But you can self-publish through several companies for a relatively small fee (around $600 to set up and then pay for each book). Consider groups like AuthorHouse or Morris Publishing. There are hundreds and again you'll have to do your research.

So that's it in a nut shell. Good luck and get back to writing!

Writing Success in the New Year

2011-01-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

I've talked about setting goals before, but every time a new year rolls around, I find myself taking inventory of the year before and feeling more motivated to organize myself so I can achieve the success that I'm longing for in the year to come. So here's a quick look inside my mind at some of the thoughts I've been having.

If 2010 wasn't successful year for you, remember that the year 2011 is completely open and full of possibilities. You have to approach it with that mindset that it doesn't matter how many rejections you faced or the criticisms you had to endure--you are a writer and you have something to offer! It may be a matter of examing what you tried in 2010 that didn't work and revising it to discover what could work. Writing is an industry, not just an art form, and so as each year passes, you have to refigure how what you write fits into that. So take some time to examine the trends, to look at the current market and then look at your work in a new way so you can determine how it fits into that trend or market. If vampire-mania is waning, then figure out how your paranormal writing can set a new trend. If the market is innundated with historical fiction about cowboys, then think how you can put a different twist on something you've already written to make it fresh. Your own "slush" pile could be full of great ideas that just were started at the wrong time. If it's been awhile since you looked at old manuscripts, go back and look at them with a new eye and you may find a jewel hiding in the dust.

It's even more important to stay focused if you had success in 2010 because you have a momentum going that you worked hard to get and which will vanish if you don't use it. Think of it as a springboard to even great success! The contacts you made, the things you learned, the projects you began are all part of the tools that you'll use to build with this next year. If you left them sitting around, unnoticed and unused, they'll get rusty or lost and you'll find yourself struggling to finish projects that you'd like to do. So dust off those files from last year and update that marketing schedule, set new deadlines for submissions and decide now that you will be successful!

Writing Resources

2010-12-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

A craftsman is dependant upon the tools of his trade. Well, as a writer, you should also have a "tool" bag for your craft. If you haven't started a collection of helpful books on the subject of writing, here's a list of my favorites:

Art and Soul: 156 Ways to Free Your Creative Spirit, by Pam Grout (2000), Andrews McNeel Publishers, ISBN 0740704826.
Blow Us Away! Publishers' Secrets for Successful Manuscripts, by E. Keith Howick, Jr. (2009), WindRiver Publishing, ISBN 978-1-886249-39-4.
Feature & Magazine Writing: Action, Angle and Anecdotes, by David E. Sumner and Holly G. Miller (2005), Blackwell Publishing, ISBN 0813805198.
How to Grow a Novel: The Most Common Mistakes Writers Make and How to Overcome Them, by Sol Stein (2002), St. Martin's Griffin, ISBN 9780312267490.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, by Stephen King (2000), Scribner, ISBN 0684853523.
Stein On Writing: A Master Editor of Some of the Most Successful Writers of Our Century Shares His Craft Techniques and Strategies, by Sol Stein (2000), St. Martin's Griffin, ISBN 9780312254216.
The Forest for the Trees: An Editor's Advice to Writers, by Betsy Lerner (2000), Riverhead Books, ISBN 1573228575.
The Plot Thickens: 8 Ways to Bring Fiction to Life, by Noah Lukeman (2002), St. Martin's Griffin, ISBN 9780312309282.
Writing Magic: Creating Stories that Fly, by Gail Carson Levine (2006), Collins, ISBN-10: 0060519606; ISBN-13: 978-0060519605.
Writing Tools: 50 Essential Strategies for Every Writer, by Roy Peter Clark (2006), Little, Brown and Company, ISBN-10: 0316014982; ISBN-13: 978-0316014984.

A Christmas Carol Writing Prompt

2010-12-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

I just saw 'A Christmas Carol' for the umpteenth time and realized that I never get tired of it! As I watched each Spirit appear to Scrooge, I started wondering how the story would be told through each of their eyes. So, an idea for a writing exercises materialized as well! Here it is:

Tell a portion of the story through each of the three spirits eyes: Past, Present and Future Christmases. Imagine how their distinct personalities would see Scrooge and what they would feel towards him: pity, compassion, disgust? Speak in first person so we really get into each spirit's mind.

Thanksgiving Writing Prompt

2010-11-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

Try and bring to mind a particular Thanksgiving dinner. Where did you go? Who was there? What events stood out in your mind? Write the scene so that all of the senses are involved: sight, smell, taste, touch, sound. For instance, is it the crumbly texture of your grandmother's pie crusts that you remember most? Maybe the smell of your uncle's cologne which overpowered the cooking food? Did you always have to sit next to your squirmy cousins at the little kid's table and start to feel claustrophobic after awhile. Was this the only time your mother brought out the good dishes? You'll be surprised where these memories lead you, whether it be to an emotional awareness of something you'd forgotten or perhaps never realized!

Whatever your memories, let's be grateful!

5 Tips for Avoiding Procrastination!

2010-11-04T10:04:00.000-06:00

It's the writer's biggest fear--and hurdle. When you can't find the motivation to write, what do you do? Here are a few tips that hopefully will keep you out of that trap.

1--Find group activities to help overcome the causes of procrastination. Look up a local writer's group or create your own.

2--Stop daydreaming. The imagination is a powerful tool for the writer, after all, it's what you do! However, to do nothing other than dream of future success is actually lazy and ultimately leads to a great deal of confusion. A healthy mind needs to be focused on actually engaging in life not in dreams. Start to employ your imagination into assessing what needs to be done and whether or not your ideas are worth pursuing in reality.

3--Start planning. Putting aside some planning time can mean the difference between achieving your goals and just circulating around them. I've got some great tips back in my September post. Make a list, think about who you need to discuss things with, think about the things that can go wrong and then set those goals to combat it.

4--Commit to action. You are better off forgetting an idea if you are not going to take some action on it. Identifying a goal and using some program like the SMART system, you should be able to start identifying the various steps that need to be taken. Agree to a time frame with yourself and stick to it. Do a bit at a time and identify what you want to achieve at each stage. This will lead to ultimate success.

5--Be prepared to flex you goals. As you begin to break down your objectives, you will come to realize things that you hadn’t thought about when you were stuck in your “happy land” day dreaming state. This is perfectly OK and you should remain open to modification.

Remember, procrastination is ultimately a rather negative state. People get bored listening to someone’s constant ideas when there is nothing done to progress them. The procrastinator can end up more confused and inactive as the mind becomes tied up in the inactivity of dreaming. "Procrastination is the thief of time", as the famous quote says. And it's no joke!

Halloween Writing Prompt!

2010-10-26T11:06:00.000-06:00

What a great time of year to let the "darker" side of your writing out. I was surprised recently when I looked up the top ten bestselling horror novels on Amazon.com. Surprisingly, there were multiple titles being written by the same author! It appears that the genre could use some new "blood" (pun intended). So, if you're looking to break into the horror market, here is a writing prompt:

*Write a paragraph using one of the three following categories and all of the words included:

Sheer Horror

scythe
fresh flowers
bloody corpse
dainty
screaming
deadly
discovery

Ghostly Ghouls

haunted visions
mimicry
safe
knock-knock
dragging
lifeless
from the chase

Kids and Candy

frills
trickery
little beggars
dentists
chasing sugar
costumed
clever

Writing Goals

2010-09-23T10:08:00.000-06:00

I just finished up doing a class at the League of Utah Writers state-wide conference this past weekend. I'll summarize a few points that I made for achieving writing success with the 'SMART' program.

Specific: Make sure that your writing goal is not an outcome ("I want to be published" or "I want to be a bestselling author.") True goals are specific in nature and the more specific it is, the better sense of direction you'll have to achieve it.

Measurable: You have to be able to break your goal down into smaller, more measurable, steps. That way you'll know if you're en-route to your larger goal. Short-term goals can be determined by asking yourself "What, Who, Where, When, How and Why?" Such as "What will I write about? Who will I submit to? Where do I submit to? When will I complete this? How do I write this? Why should I write this?"

Achievable: This is not a matter of downgrading your goals to make them easy, but of balancing your time and talents against what you want to achieve.

Rewarding: What is your motivation for writing? Fame and fortune can be short-term and so you need to look at the larger picture.

Time-bound: Set timeframes for each section of your goal. This way, you'll avoid procrastination.

When Distractions Come Calling!

2010-08-27T16:13:00.000-06:00

This past month has been rough. It's hard when you're a wife and mother (or husband and father) and there are numerous responsibilities that require your attention--and they don't include writing! I thought that after I finally got my children in school this past week that I'd have all of that glorious "me" time to start really focusing on my writing again. Well, hasn't happened yet. I've been pulled in many directions and can't quite seem to get back to business, as it were. So, if these blogs become few and far between, it's only because I'm working hard on figuring out how to balance my life so that my writing doesn't always take the proverbial back seat to everything else in my life. And when I figure it out--I'll be sure to let you know!

Making Your Character Come Alive

2010-07-14T10:00:00.000-06:00

There's nothing worse than a two-dimensional character who you can't differentiate from the other characters. It's almost as if little clones are walking around in your book or story, carrying out the plot but without much success. That's because your plot springs from your characters. Here are some tips for making them richer and more distinct:

1) Determine their external characteristics. How can these add to their personality? That doesn't mean that you settle for cliches: pirate with an eye patch, car salesman with a gold chain. And sometimes you'll want to describe them in direct contrast to their personality: a villain who seemed to be a handsome, young man.

2) Develop their goals: These are what will drive your character. What they want and why? Some of these goals will be obvious to the reader, but not always to the character. Others will be the "mantra" that your character lives by. (ex: Scarlett O'Hara, "I'll never be hungry again.")

3) Figure out their point of view: That's right. What's the character's point of view? How do they see themselves, their family, the world around them? This can also be a part of their goals and motivations and drive the plot because perception is always reality for a character.

4) What is their flaw? No one wants a perfect character and so come up with a few weaknesses that will contribute to the plot.

5) Carry out a dialogue with your character and ask them several personal questions, such as: "Where did you grow up," "Who was your best friend," "What do you want most out of life." Get to know them as well as you know yourself.

6) Write this all down! Keep a 'character log' that you can reference as you write your story.

Writing Exercise

2010-06-19T10:47:00.000-06:00

Here's a great writing exercise that will get your creative thoughts flowing...

Pretend like you're the offspring of a villainous literary character. Writer him/her a letter explaining why you've decided to be good, not bad. Try and capture the essence of the book/character by the words, phrases and thoughts you incorporate into your letter so that you don't have to spell it out for the reader who you're writing to.

5 Tips for the Aspiring Writer

2010-05-29T15:53:00.000-06:00

Tip #1: Network with other writers through writer's groups and conferences.
Tip #2: Find opportunities to write every day, even if it's just in a journal.
Tip #3: Set goals for yourself as to what you wish to accomplish. Write them down.
Tip #4: Start small. There are numerous ways to get published; consider magazines, newspapers, local publications or online blogs.
Tip #5: Don't give up! Rejection is a part of the writing world and so use it as a stepping stone to improvement and success!

The Aftermath of Writing Conferences

2010-05-03T09:55:00.000-06:00

Whew...I just got back from the LDSstorymakers conference. My head is swimming with new information, my ego experienced a little tweaking and I'm trying to figure out where to begin! Conferences are a wonderful, good/bad thing. You have access to lots of new facts from established, successful writers, but somewhere around the seventh break-out session you start to have doubts about why you're even there! Can you even write? That's why it's always important to have a little "detox" session when you come home. Don't start making any drastic edits to your manuscript, don't tell yourself you're not really a writer. Just sit and let it all sink in and then decide what, of everything you learned, is going to be of value to you. You don't have to do it all and you don't have to be like anyone else. What works for one writer won't necessarily work for you. Focus on a few of the technical things that you might need to change (punctuation, grammar) and then zero in on one aspect of your writing you'd like to improve (characterization, pacing, plot). If you've gotten good feedback on your writing before now, and especially if you've had a work accepted, you may not be as "broken" as you thought you were--so don't struggle to "fix" everything.

Going to the Head of the 'Writing' Class

2010-04-18T19:38:00.000-06:00

If doesn't matter if it's been awhile since you attended school. Taking a writing class can be a great option to keep up your skills. Here are a few ideas about choosing the best one for you:

1) Determine what it is you're hoping to gain...more technical skills, some networking, or just to be surrounded by other writers. This will help you decide how much time and money you're willing to invest.

2) Consider taking an online writing course. Most of these are aimed at the novice writer, though you can find some that cater to the experienced, professional writer. You'll find them genre-specific as well: romance, sci-fi, poetry, scriptwriting. This is a convenient way to network and give you a new perspective on the writing world. Just do your research and make sure the group is reputable.

3) You probably get one of those community newspapers in the mail from time to time. Open it up and see if there's a writing course available...there probably is. If there isn't, let your community college know and they might just add it to their next curriculum.

4) Workshops and conference can be found throughout the year, hosted by various writing groups. Again, they're probably genre-specific and will cost a bit of money. But often joining these groups will cut the fee down dramatically and would be worth considering.

Marketing and Promotiong Your Book

2010-03-30T14:38:00.001-06:00

Five Things You Must Do:

1) Contact your publisher so you know exactly what they are going to be doing for you in regards to promotional materials, book signings, advertising, etc...

2) Order business cards that preferably show your book's cover, include the title, your name and contact information like an email address/web site/blog site. Carry these with you wherever you go and exchange cards with every new contact.

3) Join one online social networking site. This can be a general site like Facebook or MySpace or be specific to your area of interest (i.e. Mormon moms, thrifty shoppers, outdoor enthusiasts...)

4) Host a webpage or a blog. How often you update it can be up to you. Even a place where general information is available is a start. Then, try and link your site to as many other sites where people who might be interested in your book go. Once you're linked, the hard part's over and you can put your focus on other things.

5) When your book's release date grows near, contact local newspapers and volunteer to do an interview or send out your own press releases. Don't forget other venues like alumni magazines, church and civic groups for a little free advertising as well. If you have connections--use them!

Five Things You Could Do:

1) Visit local bookstores the week your book is released. Meet the managers and staff and, if possible, bring a little treat or promotional item that will remind them about your book. Offer to sign the books they have on hand. Have bookmarks you can leave for customers. For bookstores out of your area, consider sending fliers or postcards announcing the release of your book and thanking them for their support.

2) Find the names of reviewers related to your book's genre and ask your publisher if they'd send out ARCs (advanced reading copies) or electronic files to those reviewers at least 1-2 months before your release date.

3) Find out about local book fairs, writer's conventions or other venues where you could arrange a book signing. Think of your target audience and be creative. (i.e. grocery stores, athletic shops, bakeries, organic markets, cultural celebrations)

4) Arrange for public speaking situations where you can be "expert" on a given subject.

5) Enlist the help of family and friends. You don't have to do it all yourself!

A Word about Writing Conferences

2010-03-12T16:37:00.000-07:00

Whew! I've hit two writer's conferences this past month, with another looming next month and one more the month after. When it comes down to it, sometimes I have to wonder if I really need to go to all of them! In this case, I did and still do, but here's a guide for you so you don't overdo it.

1) Plan your budget. If you can't afford it, you may have to reconsider a few.
2) Try and narrow down your writing plan so that you choose conferences that fit your needs the most.
3) Decide what the purpose of attending is: Are you there to learn new techniques? Network with other writers? Do a little shmoozing? Your motivation could be your guide.
4) Try and see if you've done anything worthy of being asked to serve as "Staff" at a conference. Any volunteer work on Committees or Boards could also garner you a free invite!
5) Most conferences are split up into days or sessions and you can always decide to attend only a portion of the conference. Also, skip the meals if money's tight. (They're usually not worth it!)

Writing Exercise

2010-02-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

I didn't give my writer's group an exercise last night, so here's a good one I know will get you thinking.

Write for ten minutes without stopping. Define yourself by finishing these sentences:

I want...
I'm afraid of...
I remember...
I've already forgotten...
I am...
I will be...

You can always fill these in for a character you're creating as well. Really get inside their head.

My favorite blogs

2010-02-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a list of my favorite blogs:

General Writing Tips:
http://www.mariazannini.blogspot.com/
http://www.sixldswriters.blogspot.com/
http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog
http://www.writingonthewallblog.blogspot.com/
http://www.bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/
http://www.ldswbr.blogspot.com/

Book Signings: Success or Failure?

2010-01-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

Some writers may consider this the "dreaded" book signing that they must endure to help their book sell. But with a little preparation and effort, it may just end up a success. Here are some tips:

1) Scope the layout beforehand by visiting the bookstore and introducing yourself to the staff. You'll see how much room you'll have, what supplies they already have and can get a feel for traffic.

2) While in the store, don't be afraid to suggest locations--you may want to hang out and see where customers naturally walk.

3) Explain to the manager what you'll be bringing. You can also solicit the staff's help by seeing if they'll put up a poster and really talk up your book and your signing beforehand. It helps if you give them a little treat for doing this.

4) Get the word out to local newspapers, online chat groups and any other networking groups you might have.

5) Make sure you bring the following that day: extra pens, a sign-up sheet for an email newsletter, candy or treats (gets the childrens' attention and the parents will follow) and consider having a drawing for a promotional-related prize, i.e. t-shirt with your book's picture, magnets, calendar, etc...

6) If they don't come to you, go to them. Get up and walk around.

7) Have a larger sign or banner at eye-level to the customers. If you put something on an easel, it will get their attention and help them notice you sitting there.

8) Remember this is about contacts, not just how many books you sell.

Writing is a Business!

2010-01-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

I've learned nothing these past few weeks if not that writing is a business! Gone are the images of the withdrawn writer in his/her pajamas hunched over the computer keyboard. When that golden moment comes and you're finally publishing your first book, it's all BUSINESS!

First comes the contract negotiations which leave you feeling as if you've lost complete control over your creation...then the editing occurs. Ditto on the loss of control. When it hits the bookstores, you hit the pavement--visiting bookstores, giving lectures, telling anyone and everyone about your latest novel! And then, just when you think you're done, you have to figure out how to claim your hard-earned wages with the government.

So much for creative process.

5 Steps to Writing a Stellar Query

2009-12-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

It's the first step, the first impression. It will get you off that "slush" pile and into the editor's lap...well, figuratively anyway. So how do you write that stellar query letter so your work can be recognized?

Step 1: Study your market. Know what the publisher will and won't publish and don't waste either of your time.

Step 2: Find the right editor. A name will always get attention vs. "Dear Editor."

Step 3: Start strong. Your lead will keep them reading. Use your top fact or main hook and SELL IT!

Step 4: Keep it brief. A one-page query is appropriate for anything you're sending out, whether it's an article or a novel. Any longer and they'll start snoozing.

Step 5: Proofread. Misspellings will mark you as an amateur. If you want to be a professional, write like one.

Top Ten Christmas Books

2009-12-14T13:09:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than sitting around the fire with your children reading a Christmas classic. Here are the top ten for me:

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
The Polar Express by Chris VanAllsburg
The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L Frank Baum
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Barbara Hazen
The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
The Nutcracker by E T A Hoffmann
The Little Matchgirl by Jon Erickson
A Wish to be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Monroe
Frosty the Snowman by Jack Rollins

So Merry Christmas and Enjoy!!

Writing Your Synopsis

2009-12-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

You think you've got a bite for your novel! The only problem is...the dreaded one-page synopsis. How can you possibly explain your masterpiece in just one page, and in a way that will have them interested in tackling the 400-page effort itself! Well, here's a few tips to get you started and hopefully get them hooked:

1) Don't confuse 'outline' with 'synopsis,' this isn't a scene-by-scene rendition of your book. Go back to your original outline and pick out the main points.
2) Keep your synopsis in present tense.
3) It's OK to single space and make sure you include the title, genre, word count, and YOUR NAME and contact information in the upper left-hand corner.
4) Continue the same writing style as your book in your synopsis: dark and brooding? light and humorous?
5) Don't include dialogue unless it's absolutely necessary.
6) Keep it simple, yet professional. You don't need to print in color or add clip art, have it bound or illustrated. Let your story speak for itself.

My Favorite Quotes on Writing

2009-11-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

Elie Wiesel: Write only if you cannot live without writing. Write only what you alone can write.

Henry David Thoreau: Write while the heat is in you. The writer who postpones the recording of his thoughts uses an iron which has cooled to burn a hole with.

Sholem Asch: Writing comes more easily if you have something to say.

Jules Renard: Writing is an occupation in which you have to keep proving your talent to those who have none.

Jack London: You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.

F. Scott Fitzgerald: You don't write because you want to say something. You write because you've got something to say.

William Shakespeare: If I chance to talk a little wild, forgive me.

The Courage to Write

2009-11-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

Often the first thing that writers struggle with is the first thing that's necessary TO write: having courage. The stereotypical image of a writer sitting isolated in a room for days at a time didn't just materialize out of nowhere. Writers do tend to be a little more introspective and timid when it comes to one-on-one contact. They want to release their feelings and inhibitions on the page, instead of in public. But a writer can't grow if he's isolated and his craft won't benefit from self-imposed solitary confinement. The world is your canvas and to create vibrant characters and rich settings, you'll have to get out there! Here's a few other ideas to mull around if this is your nemesis:

*The more you write and find acceptance, the easier it will be to accept criticism when it does come and stand up against it when it's unfair.
* Giving in to your fears will only make it more difficult to write and so you have to learn to cope with them, whether it's speaking in public or sending out that first manuscript.
* Don't leap aimlessly and without a plan or you may just live out your worst fear and fail. Have goals and work towards them, letting failure merely be speedbumps on your road to success.
* In the end, believe in your writing enough that nothing can defeat it.

Creating and Maintaining Suspense

2009-10-26T12:47:00.000-06:00

Hello Writers,

I've learned a lot during the time it took for me to write and publish my first book. One of the toughest things to figure out, though, was how to create and maintain suspense throughout a novel. Here's a few ideas I'd like to pass along:

*Location, location, location: The setting can add a lot to the suspense. Are you set on a windswept cliff above the rocky shoreline of England or in a deserted cabin surrounded by an expanse of forest? Probably sounds a little more exciting than in a split-level house in suburban America. (Though that can be worked with as well). But exotic locales and inherently mysterious sites can save you a lot of work.

*End each chapter with a cliffhanger. The idea is to keep readers turning pages into the wee hours, so avoid beginning a chapter with morning arriving and ending it as the sun sets. People can "go to sleep" in the middle of the chapter and then have the plot thicken and end on its highest note.

*Use strong words. Think compactly when you choose words. Take out unnecessary words, especially those that don't pack a punch. Choose verbs and adjectives carefully, avoiding common words. For example, use "crimson" instead of "red," "furious" instead of "mad."

*You must choose a worthy conflict for your book to revolve around. No one is going to care if a girl breaks up with her boyfriend. But if she's pregnant, her parents are going to kick her out of the house and a psychotic neighbor wants her baby...now you have suspense!

Self-Editing for the Writer

2009-10-19T14:23:00.000-06:00

Hello Writers,

One of the toughest things about being a writer is the criticism we receive and the soul-searching that inevitably results because of it. When we write, we put our heart in its most vulnerable form out there and it can be painful when someone doesn't agree with what we've done. But to be a writer, especially one that seeks to be published, is to accept that every word you write may be analyzed. So, what's the best way to deal with this kind of scrutiny? Well, I've learned that I have to be my own best critic and editor before I even put it out there.

The art of self-editing can be invaluable to a writer. So here's a few tips that may improve your method:

1) Follow your own best instinct.

2) Elicit help from a critique group or others in the field.

3) Develop lateral thinking: "What's another way to go about this?"

4) Take a break if you need it. Coming back later can bring with it a fresh perspective.

5) Beware of dialogue that is too long and wordy. Remember that longer paragraphs slow the pace down; shorter paragraphs will speed things up.

6) Refresh grammar rules to avoid errors like splitting participles or using run-on sentences, punctuation and spelling errors like "your" for "you're." Remember, you're a professional!

7) Avoid verbosity (which is a big word for 'avoiding big words.')

8) Keep the tone of your work and characters consistent: Casual? Prose-like? Sharp and witty?

9) READ OUT LOUD! You'll catch errors in flow and structure more that way.

10) Remember that a book is never finished, it just finally gets published.