A lot of people want to write a book someday. I know what that feels like, because 16 years ago, I wanted to write a book too. I didn't have a computer, didn't know a single writer, and had never attended a writer's group. Basically, I knew nothing. All I had was a library card and a deep desire to learn storytelling. So I hit the books and learned the craft, then picked up a pencil and got to work.
Today's novice writers are blessed with an abundance of writer's resources and easy-to-connect-to online groups. I'm still asked for advice for those just getting started, so here's a few thoughts if you've got a story in you itching to be told.
1. Study and practice. Writing is a craft to be honed, and no matter how much natural talent you have, it takes both of those things to become a good writer. Set a daily goal and stick to it.
2. Write the book you want to read. If you want to read that kind of book, there will be others who want to read it too.
3. Study the market, not so that you can jump on every trend, but so that you know how your story fits into the market.
5. Once you have a marketable manuscript, go to conferences. The American Christian Fiction Writers Conference is the best out there in my opinion. At conferences, you will learn from some of the best in the industry and get a chance to pitch your work to agents and editors—a priceless opportunity. And who knows, you may just meet some lifelong friends.
6. E-publishing is becoming huge. If you choose to go this route, don’t put a sub-par manuscript out there where it will only flounder. Hone the craft, write the best story you can, and learn to re-write. Then hire an editor. Every published author has one for a reason.
7. Getting published can be a long, uphill climb, but persistence pays off.
5 Comments:
Thank you for all the helpful pointers for all us 'wanna-be's'. Now, it's just a matter of getting our butts off the chair...or on it.
It sure is a craft, Denise! I was a published playwright when I turned to novels. And guess what? I didn't know a thing except how to write dialogue. ;o)
But the journey is worth the studying!
Dialogue is the best part, Ane! :)
I have my first novel, a Christian thriller, set to release January 8, 2013. What is the best way to get reviews from established authors or newspapers, etc? Thanks!
Casey, your best bet is to contact reviewers of book review sites. If they agree to review your book, you'll need to get a free review copy to them. I haven't had much luck with newspapers.
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