While on Twitter the other day, writer A.J. Forrisi asked an amazing question! https://twitter.com/AjForrisi/status/928268520458260482 P.S. Give A.J. a follow! My quick answer? Take notes on your first book, so that writing the sequel isn't as difficult. (And definitely do a read-through. ) I keep a character bible and chapter summaries for each book in a series.… Continue reading Take Notes While Writing a Series
Category: Miscellaneous
How Writing Conferences Can Surprise You
Today, I am attending a writing conference. (In case you’re wondering, I’m at the Middle of the Map Conference in Overland Park, Kansas.) While prepping last night, I began thinking about how much I love conferences—and about how many writers are on the fence about attending them. I always tell writers to attend conferences if they… Continue reading How Writing Conferences Can Surprise You
Should You Revise & Resubmit?
Querying can be terrifying. Whether you’re searching for an agent or applying directly to an editor/publisher (or even your own agent), sending your work out there is a nail-biting experience for nearly everyone, including established writers. In fact, most writers will tell you that rejection is a constant part of the publishing process. No matter… Continue reading Should You Revise & Resubmit?
YA Scavenger Hunt 2017!
Welcome to YA Scavenger Hunt! Hello! I’m Shannon A. Thompson—young adult author, blogger, and poet. Every Saturday, I share writing and publishing tips right here. I also love to talk about books. About Me I’m a cat lady of three gremlins. My favorite season is winter. I’m addicted to coffee, KDramas, and Sailor Moon. I… Continue reading YA Scavenger Hunt 2017!
See You Later, September!
It’s that time again. Every year, I take one month off of blogging and social media to reevaluate, get organized, and…well, relax. (And by “relax” I mean write more books.) I’ll probably be around on Twitter and Instagram still. Other than that, I’ll be signing books and talking about young adult literature at Barnes &… Continue reading See You Later, September!
Choosing the Next Book to Write
If you’re a writer, you probably have more than one piece in that head of yours that you want to get out now, but we’re only human. There’s only so much we can do with the time that we’re given. So how do you choose which project to prioritize? Honestly, I have more than one… Continue reading Choosing the Next Book to Write
The Difference Between a Fan and a Follower—and Why It’s Okay to Have Both
Marketing books can be difficult. And confusing. When I talk to brand-new writers who venture out into the marketing side of things, one of the first discussions we have is the difference between a fan and a follower. A fan = someone who reads and/or buys your books A follower = someone who follows your… Continue reading The Difference Between a Fan and a Follower—and Why It’s Okay to Have Both
Authors Can Change Their Mind
I’m a blogger, but I’m also an author. I love to write about writing, and I love to help fellow writers. Why? Because I didn’t have a lot of help back in 2007 when I was first published. There wasn’t as much information online or writers groups at the tips of your…keyboard. I mean, you’re… Continue reading Authors Can Change Their Mind
YA Female Protagonists in STEM
We need more female protagonists in STEM fields, especially in YA. For those of you who don’t know, STEM covers science, technology, engineering, and math. The reason STEM needs to be explored more in YA fiction is to encourage young women to explore those fields in real life more. Hold the eye rolls. I get… Continue reading YA Female Protagonists in STEM
Book Marketing Woes
Marketing is a word authors either embrace or want to stoke in the fire, but one aspect is universal: It’s necessary. Whether you’re self-published, published with a small press, or published by a HUGE publishing house, authors have to take on some of the marketing efforts in order for their book to be as successful… Continue reading Book Marketing Woes
