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
Tag: author
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
Burning Out on Your Fav Genre
Before every YA fantasy writer in the world loses their mind, I want to start out by saying that I, myself, am a YA fantasy writer and reader. Again, try not to lose your minds. This isn’t a personal attack. There’s some AMAZING YA SFF coming out right now. My most recent fav was Warcross… Continue reading Burning Out on Your Fav Genre
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?
Authors Who Give Up
As writers, we discuss lots of ups and downs. Writer’s block, in particular. But what about something stronger than writer’s block? What about feeling like you want to give up? “Giving up” is hard to define. Quite frankly, the definition will be different for every writer. One author might feel like giving up writing altogether,… Continue reading Authors Who Give Up
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
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
When Your Writing Issue Is…
Writing a book—or anything—comes along with a lot of challenges, and sometimes those challenges can feel overwhelming. So here’s a quick tip guide to help you navigate your writing journey. I have an idea, but now what? Well, now you write. (And write and write and write again.) Don’t focus on being perfect. Don’t focus… Continue reading When Your Writing Issue Is…
