We all know that we should show and not tell our stories to our readers, but sometimes it’s a hard thing to master. That’s why I was excited when I learned the best plotting exercise for active writing.
This exercise will have you look at the books as a visual component and make notes based off of what you notice. Plus, you’ll be hear how good dialogue is written and what other writers do when they transfer between scenes. Grab your writer’s group and a pen, and let’s get started!
…The only way to write amazing books is to study the craft of writing. After researching and reading for hours, I’ve found the best writing books to help you become a better writer almost over night–if you can read them that fast!
These writing books are quoted time and time again from other writers and coaches, and they’re the ones that I have personally read more than once. Because it’s impossible to glean all the information the first time through.
…Do you have a story that will make the perfect children’s book? But you don’t know where to start, let alone how to write a children’s book?
That exactly how I felt when I started researching the world of children’s literature. There’s SO MUCH to learn and it’s very easy to make a mistake. Unless, you have someone that can guide you.
…Have you ever been trying to write, but get stuck staring at a blank screen with the cursor blinking at you? We all have those days. Nothing some writing quotes can’t fix though!
And you’re in luck, because I found 45 of my favorites. All of the writing quotes are from professionals in the industry and are sure to pull you out of your funk! Maybe even help you find some inspiration, too. 😉
…There are days when all I want to do is lay around and watch Netflix. (And honestly, it’s more days than not 😂) But there’s something this lazy activity taught me: it can actually improve your writing!
Say what?
Yes, it’s as if you can eat cake and not gain weight. It’s that good of a secret. Except for
Have you ever wanted an easy button for writing your novel? After reading a couple of craft books, I discovered a couple of the best writing exercises that are almost as good. Almost.
Now, I use them whenever I have a new idea for a book. It helps me–and will help you–to form the outline for my story before I put words in a Word Doc.
…If you poll most aspiring authors, they will almost ALWAYS say learning how to plot your novel is the hardest thing to do. I’m even working with one of my friends–who has been published before–on her plot.
It’s that hard to do sometimes.
…Ask an adult what they’re favorite book growing up was, and more times than not, they will list a picture book. Why? Because picture books are the first books we are exposed to, and for some, it’s the only books we’ve ever read. This means as a writer, there is a lot of pressure when you plot your picture book.
But how do you build a plot in only 32 pages?
…The first question an author must answer is “Who is your book for?” And the common, but WORST, answer is “For everyone!” Writing for everyone will not allow you to target the perfect reader. It will only affect your ability to sell your book later.
Before you get all angry and pull your hair out, there’s good news. There’s an EASY way to make sure you set your children’s book up for success before you even write one word….
I was scrolling through a freelancing site for children’s book writing gigs, when I found this post: “Wanting to write a middle-grade novel about a 22-year old guy who struggles with sexuality and being an adult”. WHAT!! This person clearly doesn’t understand the age levels for children’s books.
If you didn’t catch the red flag, a 22-year old would NEVER be in a middle-grade novel because middle-grade is intended for 8 to 12-year-old readers. Not even YA would be old enough for a 22-year old character.
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