Yes, it’s been a while since I’ve posted. That’s because I’m gearing up to finish a couple of writing projects before the end of 2017. It feels so good to be back in the flow again. And I thought I’d drop in to ask a question. Do you know the difference between a writer and […]
writers
Editing Reality Soapbox
This morning, I happened across an online group of writers who caught my attention with a particular conversation. One person asked the group about an estimate from an editor. He mentioned a dollar figure without details concerning the length of the book or the type of editing he sought. Then he asked if that […]
Talent vs. Success
Even the most talented writer will never achieve success without sitting down and doing the work. It’s easy to say we’re busy creating, but how much time do we waste each day on tasks that have nothing to do with writing? Take an honest look at where you want to be with your writing by […]
Writer “A” or Writer “B”: Which Are You?
Over the years I’ve edited books and coached writers, I’ve discovered most writers fall into one of two categories. As soon as I begin interacting with a writer, I get a good idea which type he is, and an indication of how much I’m going to enjoy working with him. Writer “A” Doesn’t: Ask […]
Fresh Year, Fresh Approach
Don’t you just love a fresh new year? They’re full of exciting possibilities. But we sometimes fail to see that until we grab our usual work habits and writing choices, and give them a good shake. Kind of like an early spring cleaning. My year has started off with a few twists I didn’t expect. […]
Giving Thanks for Writers
Sadly, no one sent names of combat correspondents they wished to honor. But we know they are out there. Those men and women who serve their country while recording the nature of war for posterity. I’m thankful for all writers. For those who write only for themselves, to free their pain or express their joy. […]
Speaking With Young Writers
This morning I had the honor and pleasure of talking with a group from Mrs. Wendy McClure’s fifth-grade writing class at Meadow Lands Elementary School. Each month she selects not the students who write the best, but those who made the most effort. Their reward is a special lunch with their teachers and the teaching […]
My Wish for All Writers
I hope you are all safe at home with loved ones, snuggling in for the holiday season. Surely, close at hand, there are stacks of great books to read, board games to play, and movies to watch. And of course, lots of delicious treats at each meal and for snacking through the day. Inside you’re […]
How to Excite Local Writers
How do you excite local writers? You offer resources to help them write, publish, and promote their work, a fun group of people supporting each other, and a lagniappe of author, editor, and agent appearances for motivation. And you make it free to the writing community. Finally, I get to tell you about the exciting […]
Holidays Inspire Stories
Around the world people are celebrating. Some, the birth of a child in a stable. Others, a day of gifts and gatherings with family and friends. Others celebrate their own beliefs in traditional festivities. No matter what you celebrate, or who you celebrate with, enjoy this season of goodwill. And while you are unwrapping presents, […]