Newbie Corner - The Writing Pool

When most people begin writing, they have an idea they want to get on paper. Funny stories about their kids, devotionals, stories, news items, promoting others, technical knowledge all serve to set off the writing itch.

Here are some categories of writers:

1. Non-fiction - Whether you write articles, books, or blog, this can relate to ministry subjects, how to do something, biographies, memoir or various other topics pertinent to life.

2. Fiction - Storytellers spin their yarns in various genres. Romance is by far the most popular. Other areas include Amish, Science Fiction, Suspense/Thriller, Mystery, Fantasy, etc. There are many sub-genres as well such as Historical Romance and Romantic Suspense.

3.  Journalism - Newspapers, TV, radio, the Internet can all be outlets for this type of writing. This type of writing generally focuses on current events.

4.  Freelance - The Freelance Writer can encompass all these categories. I know people who will be working on a devotional one month and a novel the next.

5.  Ghost Writers - These folks write books for other people, many times celebrities or ministry leaders, who lack the time and/or ability to write their own. Depending on their contract, their names may or may not be on the book.

6.  Technical Writers - These folks write textbooks, tests, technical manuals, etc. They usually have expertise in a specific field.

7.  Bloggers - Yes, bloggers are writers. :) They usually write about topics of interest to them. This blog is called, Christian Writer/Reader Connection. I enjoy encouraging writers, reviewing books, and pointing out blog posts that might appeal to both writers and readers. I connect the dots between the writer and the reader. Since I write Christian Fiction, this is the audience I serve.

8.  Advertising Copy - With the demands of running a business, many people turn to writers who specialize in this area. A friend writes blog posts and handles social media interaction for a neighborhood store. There are also writers who work for big ad agencies and write commercials/advertising copy for TV, magazines, and radio.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but will give you a skeleton to identify your interests. I recommend searching these categories on the Internet.

Writers:  What is your writing specialty?

Readers:  Have you considered dipping your toe into the writing pool?

Photo Credit:  Joanie Cahill