The Newbie Corner - Gaining Access - Part 2 - Non-Fiction I started out as a non-fiction writer. Articles and devotionals found acceptance into Christian publications. However, when I approached an editor at a conference about my idea for a devotional book, I was in for a wake-up call. 1. Many publishers get these items from packagers. They put together the books and sell them to the publisher. 2. A non-fiction book requires a huge platform to guarantee sales. Think about radio and TV programs, giant ministries, well-known speakers, and celebrities. 3. Even if you have many writing credits on your resume, it doesn't hold a lot of weight when it comes to getting a non-fiction book published. This is why many authors decide to go the Indie (self-publishing) route. We're blessed that digital publishing has made this easier and much less expensive. Many ministries self-publish their books, thus avoiding the long and often arduous traditional journey. Whether you decide to give traditional publishing a shot or not, learning the craft and producing an interesting, informative book is paramount. While a subject may be fascinating to you, engaging the reader and meeting a perceived need requires writing techniques that will achieve your goals. Writers: What have you learned about the publishing journey for non-fiction? Readers: What kind of non-fiction books do you enjoy? Devotional? Memoir? Biography? Other? Please share.

I started out as a non-fiction writer. Articles and devotionals found acceptance into Christian publications. However, when I approached an editor at a conference about my idea for a devotional book, I was in for a wake-up call.

1.  Many publishers get these items from packagers. They put together the books and sell them to the publisher.

2.  A non-fiction book requires a huge platform to guarantee sales. Think about radio and TV programs, giant ministries, well-known speakers, and celebrities.

3.  Even if you have many writing credits on your resume, it doesn't hold a lot of weight when it comes to getting a non-fiction book published.

This is why many authors decide to go the Indie (self-publishing) route. We're blessed that digital publishing has made this easier and much less expensive. Many ministries self-publish their books, thus avoiding the long and often arduous traditional journey.

Whether you decide to give traditional publishing a shot or not, learning the craft and producing an interesting, informative book is paramount. While a subject may be fascinating to you, engaging the reader and meeting a perceived need requires writing techniques that will achieve your goals.

Writers:  What have you learned about the publishing journey for non-fiction?

Readers:  What kind of non-fiction books do you enjoy? Devotional? Memoir? Biography? Other? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Klaus Post

The Newbie Corner - Gaining Access - The Fiction Write

An aspiring author recently asked how they could get a real publisher. Good question. Let's explore the process:

1.  Write a book, but not just any book - a great book. Take the time to research similar titles, as well as your target audience. Are you writing for the Young Adult (YA) crowd? Romances appeal to most women and are the most popular genre. How about Sci-Fi, mystery, fantasy, and futuristic? Let's not forget contemporary works, historical novels, and women's fiction.

2.  Okay, you now have a first draft. Read everything you can get your hands on to improve your skills, go to workshops and writers' conferences, visit writing blogs and soak up as much as you can. Go home and apply those lessons to your writing.

2.  Now that you have re-written your first draft, find a critique partner to read it and suggest changes. Don't cry when it comes back with lots of red ink.

3.  Writers conferences often have authors present who will do paid critiques. Invest in one. (If this seems like a long process, it is. You don't produce a publishable manuscript overnight.)

4.  If you can afford it, hiring a professional editor can provide a great learning experience, as well as polishing your work. Make sure you select someone who will be compatible and knows what they're doing. (Many offer to do sample chapters for a fee.) I found my editor on LinkedIn, Deirdre Lockhart, of Brilliant Cut Editing.

5.  The next step is to obtain an agent. The best place to meet one is at a writers' conference. Attending agent/editor panels at a conference can provide insight into what they're seeking in the way of genre. Most conferences also provide one-on-one appointments with agents and editors.

6.  If an agent or editor asks you to send them either a partial or full proposal, make sure that's your top priority when you arrive home. Visit their websites for guidelines and follow them to the letter. Allow yourself five or ten minutes to do a Snoopy Happy Dance and then get to work.

7.  If the agent/editor sends a rejection letter, put it in a file and continue writing. Tip:  These folks like to see you've written more than one book. After all, would you want to spend hours of your time to work with someone whose creativity dries up after a single story?

8.  If an agent/editor gives suggestions on how to improve your writing, take them seriously. The first time I met with an agent, he told me to go home and learn how to write fiction. Ouch!

9.  If you land a contract with an agent, it's a big step. Getting a publishing contract is another set of hurdles, but it's not impossible.

It takes time, patience, and perseverance to get a traditional publishing contract. Many people opt to go the Indie route (self publishing), but do your research before diving into that pond.

Although the journey is long, enjoy it. Once writing gets in your blood, it's hard to walk away.

Writers:  What questions do you have about the publishing process for fiction writers? (We'll talk about non-fiction next week.)

Readers:  Are you surprised at how much is involved in the publishing process? Please share your thoughts.

Photo Credit:  Mario Alberto Magallane Trejo

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

Why Do I Need An Agent? - The Newbie Corner

According to Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, the word, "access," means:

1.  The ability or right to enter or use.

2.  A way or means of approach.

I'm focusing on these meanings. As an Administrative Assistant, my boss gives me access to all the things I need to perform my job. I have the authority to make certain decisions within his guidelines.

Publishers restrict access to their editors by using agents as gatekeepers. These individuals are viewed as experts and keep the companies from being inundated with substandard work. Literary agents review manuscripts and decide whether or not to represent a writer. They also provide advice, guidance, and act as a liaison between the writer and the publisher.

Some publishers will allow writers to approach their editors via meetings at writers conferences. Agents also meet potential authors at these venues. On an agents' panel, all agreed the primary way they met their clients was at a conference.

There are some small presses that accept non-agented submissions. However, it's important to check them out before jumping aboard. An agent not only finds a home for an author's book, but also knows the business side. They watch out for their clients' best interest when it comes to contract negotiations, settling disputes, etc.

If you dream of being published traditionally, an agent can provide the access needed to get your book to the right people.

Writers:  Are you seeking agent representation? Why or why not?

Readers:  How much does the publisher of a book influence your book-buying decisions? Please share your thoughts

Photo Credit:  Brian Lary

Newbie Corner: Pace Yourself

Once I make a decision to do something, I jump in with both feet. Instead of baking 100 cookies, I make 1,500. Crocheting - a simple scarf led to multiple afghans, baby sweaters, hats, mittens, adult sweaters, and throw pillows. I became a frenzied cookie baking/crocheting zealot. Whew!

Is it any wonder when I began writing, I used the same methodology? I quit every hobby and focused totally on learning the craft and submitting to publications. The rewards were satisfying, but in every case mentioned, I burned out.

I never wanted to bake another cookie.

The thought of picking up a crochet hook or skein of yarn made me want to hide under the covers.

And I came to the razor edge of chucking writing on that pile of enthusiastic projects.

It took me a long time to learn the wisdom of "slow and steady wins the race." Don't get me wrong, when I'm on a deadline, I'm as determined as ever to meet it. Yet, I also know that my writing will suffer if I neglect other aspects of my life.

I make time to soak in the Word of God, pray, and fellowship with my sisters and brothers in Christ.

Family and friends deserve my love and attention.

Rest, relaxation, and fun allow me to return to my writing with renewed energy and creativity.

Pacing ourselves builds endurance for the journey. Whether you're blogging, writing articles/poems/short stories, or penning your first novel, remember to live and notice the joys around you.

Writers and Readers: Have you ever become so obsessed with a hobby or some other activity that it chewed through the rest of your life like PacMan gone wild? How do you maintain a healthy balance?

Photo Credit:  Matteo Canessa

Nostalgia - The Newbie Corner

Facebook jogs my memory about products, foods, entertainment, and practices common when I was growing up. The emotions these things evoke startle me when I consider people born two or three decades after me have little or no idea what it was like during that time.

As a writer, I can use these experiences to enhance my stories. When something traumatic occurs in the present - a new event for younger individuals - I can reach down and recall the first time life tried to throw a knock-out punch at me.

Another interesting use of nostalgia or bad situations is to write about that time period. Somehow, it's daunting to think of yourself as living during a historical period. While I'm not prepared to do this now, I've begun gathering material:

1.  Pinning fashions from the 1950's and 1960's.

2.  Decor from that period.

3.  Jotting down bits and pieces from my own life.

4.  Remembering historical events from the era.

5.  Thinking about society during those times and the turbulent era of the 1960's.

Even if you don't write a full-scale novel or non-fiction article about your life and times, this information could come in handy when referencing older characters or for comparison purposes.

Just think, the first smartphone will one day be remembered the way we recall party lines and telephone booths now.

Writers:  Do you keep a file with historical references or life happenings? Please share.

Readers:  Would you enjoy novels/articles with events or products that create nostalgia about your past? Please share.

Photo Credit:  W. Szabo Peter

The Newbie Corner - Three Dead Giveaways You're a Newbie

Every writer learns step by step, and many fall beginner traps. Instead of following that road, why not learn from the mistakes of others? Here are three frequent craft issues found in their manuscripts:

1.  Giving backstory instead of diving into the action. Backstory is a history of what went on before your story starts. It's also called an information dump. Angela Hunt and Nancy Rue taught a continuing class at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference several years ago.

The rule:  No backstory for 60 pages.

Why? The goal is to raise story questions in the reader and lead them on a path of discovery. Backstory can be meted out in tantalizing bits along the way.

2.  Introducing too many characters at once. I remember starting a book and the author introduced five characters on the first page. I didn't get past the first chapter. While I write multiple point of view characters, I've learned to bring them in throughout the storyline.

3.  Not following genre expectations. Romances generally use two point of view characters with others in a secondary role. In the Christian Book Association (CBA), profanity, explicit sex scenes, and gratuitous violence are a no-no.

If you're writing a mystery, know the mechanics of a who-dun-it or a cozy mystery. We'll talk more about these subjects at another time.

If you've raised your hand and said, "I've done that," don't despair. Learn from your mistakes and practice, practice, practice. Yes, I've done some of these things. Someday, you'll share your experience with others and help them avoid, "The Marks of a Newbie."

Writers:  What newbie pitfalls did you fall into on your writing journey? Please share.

Readers:  What makes you want to keep turning the pages of a novel?

Photo Credit: Bret Underberg-Davis

The Newbie Corner - Those Who THINK They Know

As a newbie, I often showed my work to anyone and everyone. The results were not pretty, but I learned some lessons on both receiving and giving criticism.

1.  The Frankenstein Critique/Edit - This person lives to rip your manuscript or non-fiction work to shreds. There's no encouragement, constructive criticism, or kindness. Yes, writers must develop a thick skin, and it's never easy to hear your manuscript needs a lot of work. Still, there are some people who take their critiquing to a point of brutality. It's best to seek out those who are tough, but fair.

2.  The Pseudo Expert - This person is a fellow newbie disguised as an expert. It's one thing to share the knowledge they've gleaned with a fellow writer. It's another thing to view what they say as gospel truth.

3.  The Professional Who Thinks They've Nailed Your Story - They just don't "get it," but make pronouncements on your plot and characters that have no resemblance to what you wrote.

I've had people go on and on about my story, and I've walked away marveling at the assumptions they made. They were so far off the mark that I tossed whatever they said in the trash. From that point on, I avoided showing my work to them.


Writers:  Have you come across people who THINK they know where you're going with a story, but are clueless? Please share.

Readers:  Have you looked at a cover and jumped to a conclusion about the nature of a story? Do you read the back cover blurb and/or a few pages of the book, so you have a better idea of what the story is about? Please share.

Newbie Corner - Critique Partners and Mentors

While an accountability partner checks up on our progress and is a source of encouragement, critique partners and mentors take the process a step further. I've been privileged to have both at different times in my life and for various purposes.

As a writer, I've shared my work with those who have more experience. Often, they'll see problems I've missed. A couple of writers taught me a great deal about putting together a book proposal, while others edited my manuscripts.

Recently, I hired a professional editor. Since this is a costly undertaking, I checked her website and obtained a partial edit before hiring her to do the full book. She was thorough, fair, encouraging, and we got along well.

I'm sure you may be wondering where you can find a critique partner or mentor. Here are a few suggestions:

1.  A local writers group. Check your library, senior center, and writers who live near you.

2.  If you write fiction, American Christian Fiction Writers has critique groups. You can check their website.

3.  As you make friends blogging and on social media, observe how they interact with others and you. This is how I found my critique partners.

4.  Writers conferences - many friendships have been forged at these events. By networking among writers, you'll find people who are a good fit.

One caution: It's important to link with someone who will give you constructive criticism and not rip your heart out. If you're thinking about someone in your critique group, see how they treat other members. Do they give suggestions that will help improve the work or do they give only negative feedback?

Proverbs 11:14 - KJV "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." 

Writers:   Do you have a critique partner or mentor? Please share.

Readers:  In your daily life, there are times when you need advice or tutoring. Do you have someone you can trust to give you wise, godly counsel? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Michael Illuchine
 

Newbie Corner - Research Snafus and Other Pitfalls

I've either made the following mistakes or read books containing them. Here are a few nuggets to help you avoid them:

1.  One of my drafts for The Moses Conspiracy included my characters going to Washington, D.C. and getting on line to tour the White House. It sounded good, but it was wrong.

A chance comment by someone at work exposed a fatal flaw. I'd failed to research the procedure and didn't know you had to get special tickets from a member of Congress. Apparently, getting those tickets is more difficult than I thought.

2.  Another pitfall I've seen writers fall into is what I call, "too techy for the average Joe." I read a book with intense engineering details, but I skipped over chunks of it because I couldn't understand what the author was saying.

3.  Too much or too little description of the character's surroundings can result in the "yawn factor." Sprinkle in description throughout the story. Roses are not just roses, they're red or pink or some other color. As characters talk, they're perhaps walking along a beach with sand squishing between their toes.

4.  Endless dialogue makes my eyes glaze over. Break it up with action. Let your characters catch their breath. Even if they're giving a speech, you can have the sound system give a high-pitched squeal. We've all heard that happen in real life.

5.  I like cliches, the word, "that," and certain pet phrases. My editor had a field day (oops, better re-phrase that one) - I mean a red-pen fiesta with them. Do a search through your Word document for recurring words. You'll be surprised at how often you use them. A Thesaurus is a great tool for finding an alternative to your favorite words.

Writers:  What are some of your stock phrases or words you tend to overuse?

Readers:  What are some of the things that send you over the edge when reading? For a time, decorating programs on TV kept using the word, "whimsical." It became a joke with our family, not to mention a distraction from the ideas the host was sharing.

Photo Credit:  Uffe Nielsen

The Newbie Corner - Blogging 101

Are you thinking about starting a blog or do you need some pointers on the basics? I've put together a number of tips that helped me when I was a newbie:

1.  Naming your blog - While this might seem like a no-brainer, it had me stumped. I finally settled on Christian Writer/Reader Connection because I wanted to bring readers and writers together.

Choosing a name reflecting your blog's purpose will help attract a readership. Who is your audience? Some blogs identify themselves as Christian (like mine) or relate to a particular topic. Readers might want to review books on their blogs, while writers might offer tips on the craft, marketing, the publishing scene, or their personal journey.

2.  Visit other blogs - Get to know other like-minded bloggers by visiting and commenting on their posts. Contact them and ask them if they'd add you to their blog list. Offer to return the favor on your blog.

3.  Be consistent - This is one of the most important aspects of blogging. Make a schedule and stick to it. Some bloggers post once a week, while others post every day. Christian Writer/Reader Connection posts Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. People want to know you'll have fresh content when they visit. If they see you haven't blogged in six months, they won't bother to return.

4. Use Share Buttons - When visitors enjoy your content, they'll often share it on Twitter, Facebook, and other social media outlets. This gives your blog more exposure. Add This is one site that provides this type of button.

5.  Social Media - Facebook has groups dedicated to bloggers. I belong to one called, "Christian Bloggers." You might also want to look up Christian Bloggers Network. They give tips on blogging, as well as opportunities for you to ask questions.

6.  Use Graphics - People love pictures. I use Free Images or my own pictures. If you love photography, combine your hobby with your blog.

7.  Post Length - Anything on the Internet tends to be fast-paced and designed for short attention spans. Keep your posts to 300-500 words. If a post gets too long, people will skim through it and eventually stop coming around.

Writers:  If you have a blog, how often do you post? Do you have any additional tips you'd like to share?

Readers:  Do you have a blog? What are some of the difficulties/questions you had when you started?

Photo Credit: Svilen Milev
 

Newbie Corner - Baby Steps Count

Baby steps. Those two words bring many visuals to my mind. There's something exciting about seeing a child take their first steps. Even though they make little progress in terms of distance, their bravery and determination inspires me.

While I'm a big picture person, I know the journey consists of many small decisions. Some of the small decisions yield big rewards when put together.

Here are some key baby steps I took:

1.  Praying for wisdom and direction were critical to getting from Point A to Point B and beyond. God put writer friends and mentors in my path. They shared the nuggets they'd learned and steered me away from pitfalls.

2.  Attending writers conferences - This is the best way to meet industry professionals, learn the publishing business and the craft, and meet other writers. While it's possible to catch the eye of an agent or editor by submitting, there's nothing like a face-to-face introduction.

3.  Setting up a blog and joining social media platforms - Somewhere along the line, I read platform building should begin 5 years before a book is published. While the benefits were many, meeting people and upgrading my skills made the effort worthwhile.

4.  Having critique partners - Another set of eyes on your manuscript is like putting on your glasses before you look in the mirror. They highlight problems you'd never see otherwise.

5.  Making a quality decision to keep writing, submitting, and pursuing what God has put on my heart - Yeah, there were hard times when I wanted to quit. While we look forward to the prize before us, we also recall how far God has brought us from those early days.

The journey goes on - there's always the next manuscript, the next book release, and the effort to improve our skill set.

Writers:  What are some baby steps you're taking to move your writing forward?

Readers:  When you read an author's books, do you notice improvements in their writing? Please share.

Photo Credit:  Amanda Mafioletti

The Newbie Corner - Show, Don't Tell

This oft-repeated phase has many writers scratching their heads. Of course, you have to "tell the story." That's what storytellers do, isn't it?

There's a way to get a story on paper that puts the reader into the character's head and keeps them connected to the action. Here are some examples of telling and showing:

Example 1:

Telling: 

Marianna felt drained after her conversation with Virginia. The woman had a way of making her an emotional wreck.

Showing:

Marianna walked into her apartment and threw her keys on the entryway table. She collapsed onto the couch and considered staying there for a week - maybe more. The next time Virginia asked her to go out to lunch, she'd refuse. Even the luscious food at Chez Magnifique wasn't worth listening to the other woman's constant criticism.

In the telling segment, we're told how Marianna felt and why. In the showing example, we're right there and nodding our heads. Who hasn't experienced this kind of exhaustion at one time or another?

Example 2:

Telling: 

What did it matter Carrie said she didn't like guys that said one thing but did another? Guilt haunted him over the hypocritical life he led before he became a Christian. If she found out about the real Patch Lawrence, she'd probably drop him in a second.

Showing:

Carrie's voice echoed in his mind. "I can't stand a hypocrite."

He cradled his head in his hands. What was the use of pursuing Carrie? Once she discovered his past indiscretions, she'd be gone in a flash.

In the telling example, all the details are laid out for the reader. In the showing example, the reader turns the page, hoping to discover what indiscretions Patch is talking about and what caused Carrie's outburst.

The whole show, don't tell admonishment still trips me up at times. I'm thankful for critique partners, who point out areas where I miss the mark.

Some things to keep in mind:

1.  Telling reports what is happening in the story. Showing allows the reader to see the action as it unfolds.

2.  Avoid using the emotion words. A tear streaking her pale face shows the character is upset. Trembling hands clues the reader in that the character is nervous.

3.  Ask yourself: "Does this scene evoke an emotional response in me or does it tell me facts without reaching my heart?"

Writers:  Do you have a hard time with show, don't tell? Please share.

Readers:  Does this help you understand why some books you read keep you fully engaged in the story, while others fall flat? What are some of your favorite books?

Photo Credit:  Helmut Gevert
 

Newbie Corner - What Is Head-Hopping?

Yeah, the term produces some interesting mental images. Think about it in terms of jumping from one character's thoughts to another character's thoughts in the middle of a scene

There needs to be a clear distinction between each character. Open a novel and watch for those separators that say, "You're now in Character A's head." Why is this so important? If a reader has to stop and figure out who's thinking, it takes them out of the story, slows the action, and makes reading a chore instead of a pleasure.

What does head-hopping look like?


Example:  Lindy leaned forward, her chin resting on her hand. Mike knew how to coach kids and bring out their full potential. Her heart did a little flip when he turned and waved. What a hunk.

After practice, he walked over to her and sat down. "Hey, I didn't think you'd be able to get here today. Would you like to go for a burger or something?"

She'd go almost anywhere with Mike. Those blue eyes made the sky dull in comparison. "Sure. You must be starving by now."

Wow, he couldn't believe how God blessed him with such a beautiful girlfriend. Her beauty appealed to him even more because of her kindness and the effort she made to support him.

THERE IT IS:  The last paragraph switches from her thoughts to his thoughts in the same scene.

How do we correct that scene?

Take out the last paragraph and substitute:

He stood and reached for her hand. "Yeah, the kids gave me a workout today. Let's go to the Burger Shack. I got paid today, so I'll buy you one of those banana splits you love."

Maybe it was silly, but his thoughtfulness always made her go weak in the knees.

Note: He's interacting with her, but we're anchored in her thoughts. It takes some practice to stay focused,  but it will become easier as time goes by. One of the benefits of reading well-written books is seeing how an author "does it right."

Writers: Is head-hopping a difficult concept for you? Please share your experience.

Readers: Have you ever read a story and had to go back over a sentence to figure out who was thinking/talking? What effect did it have on your reading experience?

Photo Credit:  Claudio Guzman